I am in Arizona. That means that tall growing things are cacti and not trees. The children in Arizona grow up learning to stay as far away as possible from these tall things.

In almost all other parts of the country, the tall growing things are trees, and children grow up enjoying the shade, having fun climbing, and using the trunk to lean on as they count to 100 for hide-and-go-seek.

I grew up in Louisiana where there are lots of trees. So, when I lost my balance here the other day, I instinctively put my hand out to this big thing next to me. BAD MISTAKE. My hand encountered cactus spikes. Instinctively, I jerked my hand back. BAD MISTAKE NO.2. Without the hand to steady me, I fell right into the cactus.

Instincts now fully took over. My body immediately jerked back into balance, started dancing, started pulling out spikes, and began howling and talking all at the same time.

I’m much better now. I did all kinds of first aid. But I didn’t get the most important thing…..that all important kiss from my mom and dad to make it all better! However, their long distance kiss on the next day was a pretty darn good substitute!

Take care everyone,
Suzanne