Day 193 - Allergy Attack

As with most new experiences on the land, I look forward to being a part of the process. I was very glad the gentleman who would create our plan, known as a Forest Management Plan (FMP), was able to come after school was out. Before he made the trip, we connected and previewed the process. Basically, he would come and assess what the land had to offer in terms of restoration and conservation. We would have a chat about our goals and he would create a plan that would help meet those goals.

When he arrived, we briefly chatted about everything I knew about the history of the land as well as detailed what we had already done with the land. Then, we went on a walk.  We were able to walk on the trail I had been able to loosely create until we got closer to the forested sections. Here, the tall grasses had taken over the trail and we did some bushwhacking to get a closer look. Walking through these grasses threw a ton of pollen into the air. Thai was something I hadn't noticed before, probably because I tended to avoid the grass that was taller than me. However, I went into these areas with our guest as this is a main area that would be emphasized on our FMP.

This decision did not end up well for me. I started to sneeze a bit and noticed my nose was running like it was being chased by a bear. Still, we trekked on.

Eventually, as we headed back to the house, I felt my eyes get itchy.

Having seasonal allergies, I’ve felt like this to some extent before, but at this moment, something felt different. 

And I looked different too. 

As I said my goodbye, I could tell my eyes were not happy. I went inside and realized they were puffed up like the golf balls we find in the backyard and my condition was only worsening. I didn't have much change in terms of breathing so I wasn't worried about it being an emergency but I was very uncomfortable and in need of relief.

I knew just the person to call.