Blather

First- the porch (from the preceding post) is attached to a plywood building that would never pass code. But that's OK, it's not a habitable building anyway- it's the gym. Some weight machines, stair-steppers and treadmills and a pretty decent TV occupy the space. The gym also has a fridge with a freezer where people people put the water bottles so they'll get nice and cold.

But back to the Rats Among Us: Two nights ago, our single female who sleeps in another tent got bit by a rat. The same night, so did one of our group in the male tent. The next day they went everywhere to get checked by lots of medics and doctors. Though the bites were small, everyone panicked because of the possibility of rabies.

Yesterday evening, the gal chased a mouse out of her bed. She was certain it was a mouse because it was small, not a rat. Later that afternoon, someone spotted a rodent in the gravel parking lot. He called for back up, and several guys went to surround the fleeing felonious rat. I wasn't there, but I believe they dispatched the rat by (avert your eyes, PETA) stepping on him. Since we don't yet have guns, I don't know if there would have been an alternative. I don't think "trap and release" is a viable option here in the Green Zone.

Then last night, one more guy got bitten by a rat. Ever the solicitous individual, I asked if he were OK. He assured me that he was fine. Then I opined that perhaps someone should make sure the rat won't get sick from biting him. My droll sensibilities did not go over anyone's head; this is a sharp crowd!

Thus, I've updated the gentle reader regarding the actual porch and adjacent building; I've also described the vermin situation in our abode. Unfortunately, photos of the dead rat are not yet approved by the appropriate officials. Aw, if you've seen one dead rat, you've seen 'em all- pointy nose, whiskers, you get the idea.