Be patient, only 3 paragraphs. I saved the best for last:
05 Jul 27 Wednesday (high 70s, maybe low 80s)
Took him to the "park" across the street; 2nd time outside. Parts of the area had waning sunshine. He basked briefly and watched cars passing on Main Street. He seemed keenly aware of them, not wanting to get nearer.
As he crawled briskly thru the grass he lifted up his head at times, resembling a Cobra or Racer. I was surprised by his confidence. At other times, he was wary. Twice he left the grass onto asphalt, got about 2-3 feet, decided that the open area ahead was too daunting and returned to the grass. Once there, he moved about rapidly across grass or under brush.
After many minutes of exploring, he suddenly bolted away from me to a bush near the road. I thought that it was a last-ditch effort to gain freedom, which he had been actively seeking most of the time. To my utter astonishment, he slowed, turned, and crawled right back to my leg! He touched my skin and sniffed me a moment. Then he lifted his head and remained still, almost as if saying: "That was great fun, is it time to go home now?"
Unbelievable! (:
