Well, “hate” is kind of a strong word. How about what I “strongly disliked” or “freaking did not appreciate” about today’s run..
This is Joie, not me, running. People sometimes think we are sisters. Do you?
She is frowning because her stomach hurts.
I told her to do what I do and lay it all out on the side of the trail, or fart, but she didn’t.
You may be thinking “What’s not to like about that run? She’s a spoiled. bitchy brat.” Let me explain.
This was a gorgeous 10 mile run basically up and down a mountain.
That part was incredible, although HOT and I ran out of water (by the way I wrote a post last year on Tips for Running in the Heat and I think it has some good reminders, if I do say so myself. I should take my own advice and bring enough damn water).
The part of the run I HATED was on the way down. I was a few feet in front of Joie when I heard her scream. I came over to see a rattlesnake coiled up on the side of the trail, with his upper body in striking position. I didn’t see him when I ran by, but he rattled at Joie telling her to get the eff away or he would have his way with her. He looked like this (my phone had died by this point, so this is a Google image, but I swear this could be him).
This area is definitely known for its rattlesnakes. Ironically enough, earlier in the run we discussed what we would do if we got bitten by one. Slurp out the venom and spit it? Use my headband as a tourniquet? Pretend it didn’t happen and finish the run? I remember last year my daughter’s teacher found one on a hike with the class and did this:
I’m pretty sure that’s a big “No, no.”
You bet I came home and looked up what to do. If bitten by a rattler you should:
- Remain calm – Okay, yeah sure.
- Keep the bite lower than the heart – What if you get bitten in the heart? Or how about on your head? Would you have to do handstand?
- Remain immobilized so the venom does not spread quickly throughout the body – so no rolling around and screaming.
- Go to a hospital.
I may have just saved your life. You are welcome. I know I wrote recently about being creeped out by bats, but snakes are also evil.
What’s the last animal (non-household pet) you saw outside? Before this run, a squirrel. He was cute.
Ever been bitten by something and been injured/poisoned, etc? Not really. I’ve been stung be jelly fish a zillion times. Does that a count?
Have a great and SAFE weekend. Remember to keep the bite below the heart.
SUAR
