When I was about 12 years old, I embarked on my bi-yearly pilgrimage to visit my beloved grandparents, who resided in upstate New York.

I cherished these visits and yearned for more time with them.

Their home was nestled in a region that has since undergone development.

But back then, it was a quaint enclave comprising just a few houses scattered amidst islands of woods.

Between these woods, vast farmlands stretched as far as the eye could see.

The local wildlife was diverse, a tapestry that included deer, black bears, porcupines, and a medley

of other creatures.

I was well acquainted with these animals, encountering them on a weekly basis, and there

was no mistaking them for what I was about to witness on that fateful day.

On this particular visit I found myself with my cousins, and together we embarked

on an adventure to an old willow tree that we had transformed into a makeshift treehouse.

Our playful escapades were punctuated by the anticipation of Thanksgiving dinner, which lay ahead.

Armed with a pair of binoculars, we played lookout, scanning the surroundings

for any intruders who might dare to approach our beloved willow tree. The older members

of our group didn't take this sentinel duty too seriously. After all, we were just kids having

fun. Nevertheless, we kept a vigilant watch, ensuring our sanctuary remained free from unwanted guests.

It was during this innocent game that I saw something I hadn't been actively searching for.

It was a creature, standing at a mere four feet in height with a humanoid form. At first, I couldn't

believe my eyes. I thought perhaps it was a figment of my

imagination, so before sharing my discovery with anyone else, I asked for the binoculars. I peered through

them, expecting to see a cluster of leaves or a tree limb, but what I saw defied explanation. It was a creature that I could only describe as a

bizarre amalgamation of a werewolf, a dog, and a man, a corgi-like creature. As I continued

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