Yikes, what bit me?

Last week, while working on a puzzle at our dining room table, I felt a sharp prick on my right knee. Instantly, I reached down to scratch. When I looked at my fingers, I discovered a brownish stain on the tips. A brownish line of stain also marked my knee. In my fingers was the mangled remains, miniscule and dark colored, of an insect. Hmmm. Later, I concluded that a lacewing larva was the culprit. Maybe in the genus Chrysoperla. Less than 48 hours later, the bite site began to itch. Check out the photos!

 

On Bugguide.net, here's an interesting discussion on the topic: "How many of you have ever been bitten by a lacewing larva?" Naturally, I added my two cents.

A large lacewing larva from my files

 

Me and Dup

So I have acquired an uncommon malady called Dupuytren's disease in my left hand. I wouldn't post about it here, except that it has and will affect my ability to work in our native plant gardens. To learn more about Dup, my new partner in life, check out my blog, "Me and Dup." 

Suffice it to say that if the disease continues to progress (and it likely will), my hand will eventually contract. But I'm praying not! And Dup nodules are starting to show up in my right hand as well.  Yes, I am seeking treatment (which includes low radiation therapy); however, no there is no cure. So I am learning to adjust. First of all, I found what I hope will be optimum and well-padded gloves so I can still prune and ride my bicycle (don't give up on me, Waylon). For thicker stems and branches, I'm trying to use fingers on both  hands. James will have to trim thick branches, like turk's cap. Please say some prayers for my hands. I sure don't take them for granted any more!