The wolves were howling and digging up a fresh grave. People from the entire village gathered, and when they opened it, they were paralyzed by what they saw

When Olena Mariia learned she was pregnant, her joy knew no bounds. She spent hours imagining their child growing up surrounded by the forest, learning to love nature and respect animals. Taras, typically more reserved, could not hide his happiness. He began building a nursery, carving small wolf figurines from wood to decorate the crib. They both dreamed that their child would inherit their love for nature.

Sofia’s birth was a miracle for them. The girl grew up healthy and curious, showing an interest in the world around her from a very young age. She loved listening to her father’s stories about the wolves and eagerly awaited the day she could see them herself. When she turned two, Olena Mariia and Taras decided she was ready for her first meeting. They carefully prepared, bringing the wolves’ favorite treats to ensure the encounter went smoothly.

Sofia’s first meeting with the wolves was a moment filled with magic. Holding her mother’s hand, the girl gazed in awe at the large animals, who, as if sensing her fragility, moved slowly and cautiously. One wolf, the eldest, lay down beside her, allowing Sofia to touch his fur. Olena Mariia, watching this scene, felt her heart swell with warmth. She knew their family was now bound not only by love for each other but also by a deep connection with nature.

The tradition of Sunday forest walks became sacred for the family. Each week, they gathered together, packed a basket of food, and set off to see the wolves. Despite her young age, Sofia already knew the names of all three wolves—Ostap, Ivan, and Lev, named by Taras after his favorite historical figures. The girl brought her toys to the wolves, shared her little secrets with them, and they, as if understanding her, listened patiently.