A Walk On The Wild Side

  Today, I had to drop my son off at work, and try to find some way to amuse myself for awhile. As my kids know, thats not too difficult for me. I like to rub that fact in whenever I hear those dreadful words..."Mom I'm bored". Anyway, I decided to go for a walk at a park in the area. The local Veteran's hospital has a fantastic park with well kept walk paths, playground, pool, baseball field, miniature golf, and more. I have lived in the area most of my life but have never been to this park. I guess thats typical because we lived in Maryland for a few years during my grade school years and never visited any museums until after we moved to WV, and then went back to visit my grand parents.

    I felt pretty safe at this park since we live in a pretty safe area. Even so, I still walked down the wooded path along the stream with some initial trepidation. It wasnt long before  the local gang began to show me some interest. At first I hesitated, but continued on. I wasnt aware of any gangs in the area, but it wasnt long before they made themselves known to me. As I trudged along in the 40° weather, there were a few  who came closer, watching me with beady eyes. Stepping out in front of me, blocking my path, and then backing off again. I wasnt sure whether to run or try to be brave and continue on. As they quickly did the same, I soon realized they werent sure of me either. Suddenly a wooly character came in a little too close for comfort. I had been warned before not to trust them. He was blocking my path in front of me so I stopped and waited with baited breath to see what he wanted. He came so close, I began to fear that if I didnt move it would be too late.

He was suddenly at my feet, fear took over, and I made a quick movement which startled him and he quickly backed off. As you can see, I think the character from this little gang of thieves would have run up my leg if I let him.

      I cant wait to bring my grand daughters on a walk here.Then I will have reinforcements. The little 3 and 6 year old types (sometimes holy terrors, sometimes angels) that all moms and grandmothers are familiar with. Squirrels.... "Be Afraid...Be Deathly Afraid!"

                                                                      I will be back.

                                              But with nuts in case they attempt to mug me again.

Now that I realize the kinds of characters that patrol this park, I see why they posted this sign. One never knows

                                                           what happens after dark.