Climbing Cubs: The Day I Almost Got Mauled (But Not Really)
🏞️ A Peaceful Morning in the U.P. (Before the “Attack”)
It was one of those serene mornings in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula—the kind where the fog hangs low, the air smells like pine needles and possibility, and you start to believe nature might just be your best friend. I was at Oswald Bear Ranch, camera in hand, hoping to capture something special for my puzzle line. I didn’t expect to stumble into a scene that looked like it was straight out of a Disney movie… or a bear survival guide.
🐾 The Cubs Appear: Cute, Cuddly, and Slightly Suspicious
Out of nowhere, two bear cubs emerged from the brush like fuzzy little ninjas. They spotted a tree and immediately began climbing it like they were auditioning for Bear Ninja Warrior. One cub wrapped his arms around the trunk like it was his long-lost teddy bear, while the other scrambled up with the kind of determination usually reserved for toddlers reaching for cookies on the top shelf.
I raised my camera, heart pounding—not from fear, but from sheer excitement. This was the shot. The kind of photo that makes people say, “Aww!” and then immediately ask, “Wait… were you safe?”
😱 The Growl Heard 'Round the Ranch
Just as I was lining up the perfect shot, I heard it.
A low, rumbling growl.
I froze. My mind raced. Was that mama bear? Was I about to become a cautionary tale on a nature podcast? Would my puzzle business be inherited by my dog Lincoln?
I imagined myself sprinting through the woods, camera flailing, yelling apologies to the bear gods. I even rehearsed my future interview for the local news:
“I just wanted a cute puzzle photo, not a bear hug!”
🧍♂️ The Truth: Fenced In and Feeling Fine
Okay, okay—here’s the truth. I was behind a sturdy fence the entire time. The cubs were safe, I was safe, and mama bear was probably off somewhere rolling her eyes at the tourists. The growl? Likely just a distant grunt from another bear who was annoyed I didn’t bring snacks.
But the photo? It turned out perfect. The cubs looked like they were mid-hug, mid-climb, and mid-cuteness overload. It was one of those rare moments where nature, timing, and a good zoom lens all came together.
🧩 The Puzzle: 500 Pieces of Pure Bear Joy
That magical moment is now immortalized in a 500-piece jigsaw puzzle called “Climbing Cubs”, available on our website. It’s one of our most heartwarming designs yet—ideal for wildlife lovers, puzzle enthusiasts, and anyone who enjoys a good story with their scenery.
We offer FREE SHIPPING on qualifying orders and run seasonal discounts, so keep an eye out for deals that make your puzzle habit even more enjoyable. And yes, it pairs perfectly with a cozy evening, a warm drink, and maybe a bear documentary (for ambiance, not survival tips).
🧠 Behind the Scenes: Why This Puzzle Matters
This puzzle isn’t just about cute cubs—it’s about the joy of discovery, the thrill of storytelling, and the beauty of Michigan’s wild spaces. It’s a reminder that sometimes the best adventures happen when you’re safely behind a fence, camera in hand, heart full of wonder.
And if you ever find yourself at Oswald Bear Ranch, keep your eyes peeled. You never know when a couple of cubs might decide to put on a show.
