Brian, thanks for the info on the leather ... that's what I kinda expected! I just don't know if I can get it out without dragging out 50lbs of rock along with it!

Any thoughts on the tounge? I am concerned about an infection that could wipe it out. It seems to be fleshy like a plate or brain, and i know how quicky they can be wipped out from a minor bruise. Would an iodine dip afterwards help or hurt in this case?