I’ve swung my axe so many times anywhere but into the wood that, statistically, my next swing might be the one that strikes me
We’re like downhill skiers or F1 drivers—most people can hardly imagine how dangerous cottage life can be, writes Kari-Otso Nevaluoma.
People without a cottage can hardly imagine how dangerous life can be for us cottage-goers. You could even compare us to downhill skiers or F1 drivers. Sure, that comparison might be a bit off, but so be it.
I was reminded of this danger when my spouse was reversing the car into the yard while I stood a safe distance away. Suddenly, I spotted a dandelion baring its teeth on the lawn, so I crouched down to yank it out. The car barely touched me, but I still had a flash of panic—wondering if this was it.
At our cottage, we know that no matter what we do, something unexpected can always happen.
Once, I’d been weeding the vegetable patch for quite some time when I decided to straighten my back, wipe the sweat from my brow, and grab a drink. When I came back, a swift-moving adder was peering out from between the lettuce leaves. Could it have struck my finger?
I’ve swung my axe so many times anywhere but into the wood that, statistically, my next swing might be the one that strikes me.
Using a chainsaw is completely off-limits for me, and just in case, I also steer clear of the gas cylinder.
Using a chainsaw is completely off-limits for me, and to be on the safe side, I also steer clear of the gas cylinder. I haven’t yet found myself in danger with a rake or a spade. Even with a sickle, I only managed to jab a wasp nest instead of myself.
I’ve gotten burns from the glowing firebox in the sauna and from the side of the water cauldron. I survived scraping moss off the roof only because I never looked down to see how high I was.
By some miracle, neither I nor anyone else has twisted an ankle, broken an arm, or injured a leg, even though our yard’s uneven terrain could rival an obstacle course.
What might happen if we started fooling around with liquor? Or if we bought a motorboat packed with horsepower? The mere thought is frightening.
It’s best not to dwell on it. If you start worrying about every likely or unlikely danger, you’d be better off steering clear of the cottage altogether and doing nothing fun at all.
Kari-Otso Nevaluoma is the Editor-in-Chief of Kotona’s home, cottage and renovation content.
