Ever Been Slapped by An Iguana? by Elaine A. Powers, Author

Many people know that that my reptilian family members provide me with companionship and inspiration. Here, Calliope is sitting on my shoulder, checking out my work and encouraging me to continue writing.

My iguanas have also been responsible for some unusual telephone conversations. The first experience was when I made a call to a reptile veterinarian asking about costs for visits. I wanted to have several of my iguanas checked out, so I asked, “Do you charge by the iguana?”

I was asking if each iguana would be charged for an office visit or if I could get a group rate when they were all seen at the same visit. One of my co-workers overheard my question and commented that it was the strangest question she had ever heard.

Recently, I was talking on my cell phone while Calliope was sitting on my shoulder. When I moved, I shifted Calliope’s position, and my head was then closer to hers. Since I was too close, she slapped my cheek with her hand! I exclaimed and then had to explain to the other person that I had just been slapped in the face by an iguana! He laughed and said that was quite an unusual comment.

It’s true! You never know what will come out during a conversation with an iguana owner. Or, when you’re trying to make a presentation–live!