Not For The Squeamish

Back in the fall there was a story in the papers about an increase in the number of gigantic spiders seen around London.  The kids and I came across many of these spiders on our walks to school and even in our own backyard as you can see in the photo below.  Isn't that an impressive web?

Once I read the stories about the spiders, I was on the hunt for spider repellent.  All I could find in the shops was non-harmful deterrent spray.  What?!  I didn't want to deter the arachnids, I wanted them d-e-a-d.  Full stop.  Yes, yes spiders are a part of the food chain, and extermination of this species would have a devastating impact on the world.  But for goodness sakes look at the size of them!

So, I bought the all-natural spray and immediately sprayed every window opening or vent the little buggers could possibly use to gain entry to The Manor.  I felt better knowing that the spiders would walk on by our house for another that was not protected.

I was wrong.

One night after I put the kids to bed (and Matt was out of town), I saw something out the corner of my eye.  At first I thought it was a mouse, but after I jumped I saw this nasty beast in the middle of my kitchen.  

Thank the heavens that this bowl was within easy reach to capture this beast.  Once I captured it, I was not sure what to do next.  No way in hell did I plan to squash it.  Blech, that would be a gooey mess.  Instead I grabbed a piece of cardstock which I slid under the bowl.  That did not make it happy.  It started running and jumping off the sides.  Once it calmed down, I called to Oldest Kiddo out of bed for some help.  She opened the front door and I walked into the street and threw the bowl and paper.  I watched it scurry into the storm drain while I gathered my household goods.  

Both kids were now wide awake during this excitement, and they were as thrilled as I that it was gone.  In the end we could all sleep well knowing it was back outside where it belonged.

This is not the only time we've been visited by one of these buggers.  Three in total (that we know of!) have made visits to The Manor.  The last two only made it as far as the conservatory before capture & release back to nature.  Once the blasted rain stops I shall make another round of the all-natural spray.