I went on a wildflower hike last weekend and had a wonderful time. Captured photos of a variety of beautiful flowers. Heard some awesome birds. Saw some majestic trees. I love Spring but it isn’t my most favorite time of the year. It is a close second, though. Many people say that Spring is their favorite but, besides the beautiful flowers coming to life and everything turning green, I have my dislikes. Mainly, Spring allergies.
But, this isn’t a post about Spring allergies. It’s about TICKS!
Our winter has been mild and summer-like temperatures are already upon us. We’re seeing lots of ticks earlier in the year. So, need I tell you that I brought home an uninvited guest from my hike? Yep, a TICK! Gosh, I hate those creatures. They are disgusting, to say the least. Have you ever been smitten by one? Have you had one love on you, lately?
Who’s been walking with you through fields of wildflowers?
And who’s been checking you for TICKS?
I got loved on, I think, by either the Lone Star or Deer Tick. As soon as I discovered it, I frantically looked on the internet for pictures explaining how to remove it, and what to do afterwards. Following the instructions, I took a slanted tweezer, put it close to my skin and pulled straight out. I could feel its resistance. It quickly released because I wasn’t letting it go. I then put the sucker in a jar and sealed the lid tight as I could.
(You can click each image to enlarge)
The instructions were to freeze and save it in case I became infected (YIKES!) with Lyme Disease or Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, or whatever else those disgusting things transmit, to show to the physician for identification. I am not putting it in my freezer. I’m giving it a slow death, without air. It may feel like I’m getting revenge but after doing the research I learned that ticks can endure extreme conditions for a long time. Shucks, muck!
Well, I’ve been on my wildflower hike this year, and gained a new follower to boot. Can’t say that I enjoy its company like I do with my human followers on this blog, but unfortunately, I’m stuck with it for now. Hopefully, no signs of any disease will come upon me and I can eventually get rid of the sucker, very soon.
Be careful out there, y’all.
Please be careful and check for ticks. I was bitten by about 30 years ago and have been and still am extremely ill because of it.
Wow, Cee, I didn’t know one could still be that ill after so many years. I can’t imagine what you’ve gone through, and still going through. Thanks for sharing. I did all the wrong things this year going on that hike. Hopefully, it results to nothing.
I do hope your good days outnumber you bad ones. Be blessed!!
Check your County government offices. We have a Vector Control Officer who will inspect your tick to determine its age and whether or not it is a female. By the sex, age and length of time it was attached, they can determine whether or not you should be tested for Lyme disease. If it was on you less than 24 hours, you should be safe, at least from the Lyme disease. I don’t know anything about the Rocky Mtn. Spotted fever. Good luck and be careful. We live in the woods and I have to check my kids for ticks every night before bed. And the deer ticks that carry Lyme disease are so small, like the size of a very small pin head. They’re disgusting!
Thank you so much for taking the time to leave such a helpful suggestion and useful information, Frenchtwistedwoman. I will check with them this week. I will update this post when I know more.
Many blessings to you and your precious ones.
Thanks for reminding us to take the time to check for ticks. For some reason I thought they only came out in the hot summer but I see it is spring as well. I pray that you stay well and disease free!
You’re welcome, NeeNee. Please be careful and safe when going out. The nymph is most active in early spring and the one to carry diseases. Thank you so much for your prayers and well wishes. I will keep the comments updated. Be blessed.