Realising that I was a bit startled, and so too were the sheep, the shepherd signalled me to carry on the walking. The saying, a deer in the headlights most definitely applied.
The vision of sharing the trail with so many sheep was such a surprise that I wanted to capture the moment. I pointed to my phone, hoping the shepherd would understand that I was asking for permission to take a photo.
I was expecting a nod of the head, but instead he started grinning mischievously and playing up to the camera. Within a few seconds we were laughing and he asked me (through hand gestures) if I wanted to hold one of his lambs.
Before I could react, he scooped one up from his flock and attempted to thrust it into my arms, but I flailed around and opted to give it a kiss on the head instead. The shepherd crackled as if realising I was crossing unfamiliar territory. (Now that’s how you tell someone you’re a city girl without actually saying you’re a city girl!)
I asked him his name, which he understood and replied, ‘Ded Nika’. Honestly, I can say with my hand on my heart that Ded Nika is my absolute favourite person that I’ve ever encountered on any hiking trail around the world. His infectious laughter, genuine smile, and playful spirit is something that will absolutely stay with me. He made it a hike to remember, along with his headstrong flock of sheep!
