It’s the 1970’s in all its glory: Long hair, The Beatles, Bell-bottoms, The Doors, Led Zeppelin, The Vietnam War…and Mike’s parents considered summer sleep-away camp as a boon to Mike’s childhood. They likely hadn’t considered that forced socialization or sports would
hardly draw Mike out of his shell. Instead, it afforded golden opportunities for Mike to search for creatures within shells, or those who swam, slithered, or minimally, had four legs. Creatures beckoned…Mike simply heeded their call.

At the end of the day, Mike gathered his newfound friends, and stored them in a crate beneath his bed. All too soon, the counselor discovered his cache, and an ultimatum was issued—either the reptiles were returned to their natural habitat, or Mike was to return to his.

At the ungodly hour of 2:30 AM, Mike’s parents arrived at the camp. Together, they set the creatures loose. Then, they snugged Mike into the back seat so that he too, could reclaim his freedom. Mike fixed his eyes on the rear window of the station wagon, his breathing shallow, almost panting. He only drew a full breath as the campground completely slid
from sight.

​

Fast forward to 1988, when an ad for baby King snakes snagged Mike’s attention. Mike immediately reached out to Fred and conversation flowed effortlessly. Shortly thereafter, Mike drove out to Fred’s place to view Fred’s extensive collection of Boas, King, Corn, and Pine Snakes. The overwhelming refrain in Mike’s head was “This is my Dream. This. Is. My
Dream”.

And thus, A Reptile Adventure hatched, cementing the decades-long partnership.