I Do My Own Stunts

This weekend, we borrowed a Polaris Ranger Crew (a side-by-side ATV with the capability of seating six people). The twins were at the park with their class and my husband and I decided to surprise them. Of course, it wouldn’t have been much of a surprise without our dog, Parker, so we took him on the Ranger and went to the park.

After our little visit with the twins and their class, we left with Parker in the box (the rear of the Ranger). I kept looking back to make sure he was still there, even though he’d never fallen out in our old Ranger. I’m just a nervous Mom. Then, we took a turn a little too fast. At this point, I was confident Parker was staying put, but glanced back just to make sure. I was shocked to see my little white Bichon running in the middle of the road. Not wanting to slam on the brakes, my husband slowed. My mind was racing. A truck just turned onto the street and Parker was still wandering on the pavement.

Without thinking, I jumped out of the moving Ranger. I was stunned for a few seconds. I never expected my body to jolt like that. Guess I watch too many action movies, where nothing seems to faze them. Then, I realized my dog was still in danger. I ran into the street, causing the other vehicle to stop, grabbed Parker, and dashed back to the Ranger.

I have to admit, if someone had asked me how I’d have reacted to such a situation, I would never have guessed I’d jump out of a moving vehicle, but I did. Goes to show we can’t always predict our own behavior, never mind that of others.

Have you done anything crazy like this?