Today is your day Boomer! It is "bear" time in BC's OKanagan Valley and likely close to your home too! As we enter the months of September and October, we-active Boomers-must remember that these furry creatures aren't always as cute as you see in this picture. They are feeding on lots of harvest-time fruits and berries and are getting ready for winter hibernation.....and many don't like to be interupted! We must tread carefully on neighbourhood walks and mountain trails as a bear could show itself at any moment. Bring your dog with you, make plenty of noise, bring a high-pitched whistle or air horn, pack some bear/pepper spray, and be ready to change your walking plan. These animals are big and sometimes like to attack....especially if cubs are nearby. Bear experts warn that we should never cut off a momma bear from her cubs! Bad news. Want an example? I met a Boomer on the golf course a few years ago with bandages all over his legs. His bear encounter lasted for over 30 minutes as a big momma bear relentlessly attacked him and his dogs. One dog died, and he and the other dog were severely mauled. He was lucky.....but Boomers, we can help make our own luck by being " bear aware" and definitely prepared! Cheers.....here's to good, safe walking this fall!