Unexpected

Jun 5, 2009 by Naomi.

One never knows what each day will bring. I did not expect to get a fat lip while weeding at McNary National Wildlife Refuge, but I certainly did. A wasp took exception to being disturbed in a small gray rabbit brush and kissed me quickly on the lower right corner of my lower lip. I felt the sting but did not actually see the insect as it left its mark.

I have been stung by hornets or wasps or whatever so many times as to become immune so I knew I was in no danger of dying, not even getting sick. I had a special patch of cheatgrass to eradicate as my goal this morning and was not about to stop. My weeding partner, Deb, took one look at me and suggested she get her benadryl to stop the swelling. When I refused to take drugs she suggested ice. And maybe I should not try to drive home. Well my hands were tingling by the time I turned off on Abbot Street.

The swelling has overtaken my entire lower lip down to my chin. I am certain I will live. It is into the shower to rinse the sweat and dust from the four hours of volunteer work in the native plant garden. It is not even noon - less than half a day.

What more adventure awaits on this ideal summer day?

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