They wait between the bridge and the bird island, very close to mediation walk. Not the only red ant mound in Audubon Park, but certainly one of the largest. So large that toddlers may find the urge to climb it.
She did it on Sunday, a week ago. Falling into the pile meant that her hands and knees took the most punishment. Little puss-filled bites are on her fingers on palms. A few trail down her legs. Paul was there in a second — we saw it happen before it actually happened — to beat the ants off of her, taking a few bites of his own. It was traumatic for all of us.
The sight of any bug, especially an ant, has become a terror for her — something her brother has started to exploit. (“Look, Kate, there’s an ant on my truck!” — “Oh no!” says Kate, promptly dropping truck.) Who knew Kate could develop a phobia?
We’ll see how long it lasts — and how long these take to heal. As for the ants, I’ve written the Audubon Park people… and I hope they blast those varmints to smithereens.
Painted Maypole | 12-Apr-09 at 9:11 pm | Permalink
oh, i hurt just looking at them. they suck. hope hers heal faster than when i get them!
Christoph | 12-Apr-09 at 10:06 pm | Permalink
Poor girl. Must have been miserable. Reminds me of how my little bro learned the hard way that while Mr. Bumblebee may be all good and friendly on Sesame Street, he’s really a mean old cuss in the real world and he don’t like to shake hands.
Welcome to the South, Miss Kate. Get well and don’t be touching them ants!!
Lucy | 13-Apr-09 at 4:35 am | Permalink
Ouch! Poor little thing looks pretty miserable.
Gotta love brothers!!!