Face To Face With A Rattlesnake
As the weather warms up, it's good for all of us to be aware of the wildlife around us. In Arizona, as the desert and mountains get warmer and drier, wildlife usually finds their way into the cities for food, water, and shelter.
It's great to be aware of what's around you. Thanks to Karen for the little reminder.
No....I'm not talking about a short sale negotiator or a listing agent who doesn't know his listing's market value...I'M TALKING ABOUT A SNAKE!
I've spent most of my life in Southern California, but I've never happened across a rattlesnake before. And I hope I never do again.
I've been hanging at my cabin in Lake Arrowhead this week.....absolutely perfect weather for hiking. I love to hike. Not for the exercise, but just to be in the middle of the beautiful terrain.
My love came from dad. Even at 77 years old he's the only one who'll go out with me for a couple hours of solid hiking. Growing up we were very fortunate to be able to do family vacations every summer. We would alternate between the Hawaii vacation (dad still body surfs and boogie boards) and the mountain vacation. I'm a daddy's girl and I would always be willing to get up at 5am and hike with him.
My greatest "accomplishment" in life has been the ability to recognize special moments and times and appreciate them. I can honestly say...no regrets. Hiking with dad is a part of this! So glad I took all those opportunities!
So....back to the snake.
I've been pushing myself this week. Not just physically, but also trying new routes for change. I've typically been able to head to the trail head at the base of our hill and then come home via the back of the house. I'm walking distance to the San Bernadino National Forest. This week...I've tried a few new trails.
Some worked out great. Others? well let's just say I had to turn around when I got hopelessly lost after 1 1/2 hours into a trail that didn't lead where I thought it would...ugh!
Today? after trying a route that was somewhat new, I was only a few yards from the end of the trail and boom.....a Rattlesnake laying in the middle of the trail.
He heard me coming....which is good because I didn't see it until it started to move. Looked like a moving stick to me, until I saw the rattle on it's tail. Oh no.....!!!! So it slithered off the main trail and into the side of the path. But where? I couldn't see it.
So there I am.....frozen! The trail dropped off the cliff to the left and there was deep brush to my right. The trail itself was only about 3 feet wide. I was so tired at this point...and a few yards away from the end. Going back would add another 45 minutes to my hike.
What to do?
One step at a time...slowly and haltingly, I moved past the spot. After each move, I waited to hear the rattle (the indication he felt threatened). Nothing....and then I was past the area where he had disappeared into...and I took off on a full run! Maybe not that smart....had he moved on. But it felt good.....
Suddenly I was not so tired :)
Shake, Rattle and Roll.....I'm going home tomorrow, some paved trails for me.
Ah shoot...wish I could think of a way to tie this into real estate...other than the snakey short sale negotiator. Nothing comes to mind. But I'd love to work with you to buy or sell your Orange County property..how was that?
Karen Fiddler
Broker/Associate
The Fiddler Realty Team/eVantage Real Estate
Lic # 01494165www.SearchForOrangeCountyHomes.com
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