We enjoyed a beautiful sunny cool day in the desert this weekend. Trekking back up to Mt. Charleston to see a glimpse of snow was a must on Sunday. We decided to stop at the visitors center to use the bathroom and our daughter decided she wanted to stay there and drive/ride no further. Anyone with a toddler, I am sure you understand the importance of this decision. Luckily, there are some lovely trails around the visitors center and they led us to snow. The dog enjoyed getting out of the car as well and he got to feel the earth between his pads. He was so excited and romped around next to our daughter the entire time. The trails were lined with vegetation and we talked about how lovely it would be to come back and see the same spot when spring comes. After playing in the snow for about half an hour, we ventured back to the car to get some snacks. Our daughter decided to stop and feel the dirt run through her fingers, hug bushes, and play with the dog instead of walking.
During this time, we got some amazing pictures and an opportunity for a family photo which is always a treat. This being said, we had no idea what was really about to happen. I was impressed that my phone camera caught the little critter so we could make sure everything was okay when it all took place. Insects are attracted to the color white and our daughter was wearing her pink jacket with white lining. So…needless to say…sting, sting, went the flying ant! Our poor baby looked at the dog in one of the photos and instantly grabbed her face and started crying. She managed to say “face” so we knew where to look and her cheek was swelling up. I thought it was a sting instantly and immediately checked for breathing and the list of safety precautions. So many thoughts race in the mind when little ones are hurt. I walked her over to the snow, and iced the swelling area as her tears stopped falling. Then, we went to the ranger station as it was closer than our car, and the swelling was gone. The sweet ranger helped us identify the insect from our photos and all was well.
Just a thought…what if, in a real emergency, there are no more Park Rangers? What are people going to do? After speaking with the rangers and staff there, many jobs are gone and funds for the jobs people currently have are low.
Advice: Stay safe out there and check your emergency kits!
I hope you all have a Marvelous Monday and thank you for reading.
-Karen Hilliard
Also, if you would like another way to show support, I have a few options. “Buy me a coffee” which is a way for anyone to contribute to the creative process behind the paintings. Fuel the artist so to speak. Here is the link if you are interested. The funds go to supplies and gas to get out to the trails. I truly appreciate the support and the fact that you are liking these blogs, as well as my art posts. I am working hard to bring you all fresh content! Here is the link to my Instagram where I try to post daily. You can also find me on Facebook at my art page Karen Hilliard Art.
If you would like to, please leave your Social Media handle on the “Buy me a Coffee” page so I can thank you in my Instagram/Facebook Stories! 🙂
Thank you again for all of your support!