It was a chilly (31º) but beautiful morning here on the West Thumb, and I enjoyed staying in bed until just after 0630. I lifted my head from the pillow at 0430 to see the rim of the caldera highlighted by the predawn oranges and pinks in a clear sky, casting their reflection on the calm waters of the lake. Glorious!
And then I went back to sleep for a while. Even more glorious!
It’s my first day off in 12 days, and I started off with a good-sized list of chores to take care of: vacuuming, washing the truck and doing the windshield treatment (already too late to save the warranty, but a good protectant), adjusting the level of the Hovel, and checking the air intake under the refrigerator for evidence of a rodent.
The dogs went nuts right around bedtime last night, running through the trailer sniffing the corners, back and forth. They were especially intent on that air intake. So, I unscrewed the hinge closure and swung it open to have a look, thinking to myself that I should go ahead and get the vacuum cleaner out now because I’m going to need it.
It was readily apparent to even the most casual observer that I was going to need the vacuum; however, there was no such readily observable evidence of a rodent. I pulled out the vacuum and used every attachment to clean out the space, and then I inspected one more time.
Aha! A mouse-sized hole in the ducting leading from the furnace to my bedroom! That could be why I’m not getting much air-flow or heat in there. The little bastard! What he doesn’t know is that I have three secret weapons: a roll of duct tape, a packet of Fresh Cab, and Gidget — a proven mouser and possible Rat Terrier, but definitely not a chihuahua. The Fresh Cab will drive him away from the area, and if he’s in the ducting, the easiest way out now is the vent in the bedroom. If he comes out there, he’s toast!
So, there’s one I can add to the “To Do” list for the day and cross off.
Now, for another cup of coffee while I gaze upon this glorious day in Yellowstone. The rest of the list can wait for a bit. I’ve already accomplished a lot on my day off.
