Alligators EAT people...

So why is it that people from Florida think that fact is not a big deal? I live in a neighborhood with a few little um, ponds? Lakes? I don't know, whatever they are, they have gators in them. Big, 8-foot alligators that are salivating to eat my babies for an appetizer. The only way they will be removed is if they become a nuisance (!). Ok, what exactly is a nuisance to our HOA? So why is it that my Chicago-transplanted friend Robin and I are the only ones aware of the danger that lurks among us every day? During our morning runs, we see them. They wait along the banks for us to make the wrong move so they can lap us up in their knife-like fangs. We often talk about what we would do if the other one were being attacked. I've asked Robin, "would you try to save me or would you keep running for your life?" She once told me, "well, I am training for a marathon, I have to get my runs in you know..."

In about a week, we are going on our first family camping trip. Tent camping. Yes, I'm serious. Tents. We're going with Ray's sister and her husband, and they're both seasoned campers thank goodness because I haven't camped since Girl Scouts (good 'ole Camp Sacajawea in Williamstown, NJ). The boys are super excited. Today I was at the park with Robin and I told her where we were going. She informed me that the state park we are going to is the SECOND most alligator concentrated in Florida, but that it is in fact very beautiful. WHY DO THEY ALLOW PEOPLE TO CAMP THERE?????????

You know, I can't say much for Jersey, but at least all we had to worry about up there were ticks and polluted water...