Having skipped the redwoods, I drive the 50+ miles to Oregon Caves National Monument in Cave Junction, Oregon. I've left the rain behind and although it's still chilly enough to wear my $9.99 jacket, it's gonna be a great day. At least that's what I think until a yellow jacket slams into my half open driver's side window and lands right between my legs!

Imagine if you will, me zipping along at around 55mph, there's a gigantic buzzing bee somewhere in my crotch. I've got my gitchy-gitchy-ya-ya up in the air trying to keep from being stung, while at the same time slamming on the brakes and bringing the car to the side of the road without being killed by another car. Looking like I'm doing an imaginary Limbo, I jump out of the car and do the typical "I have a bee on me!" shake of the clothing. Once I'm sure the bee isn't stuck to me I peer inside the car. Awww, now that he's harmless I begin to feel sorry for the little guy. He's not dead, just a bit stunned.

So I grab a plastic cup and scoop him off the seat. Laying him on the hood of the car I jump back inside and close the windows and watch while as he regains consciousness and flies away. *Sniff* Goodbye, Lil Bee. I'll miss you!

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