Writing reveals many truths

Writing sometimes reveals unexpected, embarrassing, or personal details that we may be uncomfortable sharing. I’ve run into this several times over the years. That has caused me to avoid writing about certain subjects, and also prompted me to write under a pen name for a long time.

I’m trying to be more transparent, but this effort may need to include putting more distance between my personal social media pages and my “writer” pages. Readers and fans don’t need personal details, and my professional work info is also tied to my personal page. I need to lock some stuff down and work on organizing my work and protecting my privacy to a better degree.

Meanwhile, I’m going to share a rather embarrassing personal situation that has plagued me recently and initiated an increasingly heated rivalry.

We have a rat.

Leastwise, I sincerely hope that we only have ONE rat, and evidence does seem to suggest that there’s not a full infestation, but I’ve seen this rodent. It comes in through the doggie door, then quickly slinks to a comfy and warm spot under the dishwasher.

The night before Christmas, a creature was stirring, and we set traps.

SIX traps.

We put up a gate to prevent the dogs from investigating and being hurt, then set six traps.

Four of them, we parked right in front of the dishwasher where we’ve seen activity.

For good measure, we put out two more – one next to the refrigerator, one next to the trash can.

Four nights in a row, my nemesis has stolen the bait from one specific trap. Twice they have snapped the trap while stealing the bait, but I have yet to see evidence of any injury. I don’t even think he’s even winded. I think he’s messing with me. It’s always the SAME trap. Clearly he prefers fresh rat trap bait to the stuff of 4 days ago!

Our uninvited guest has really scored in the Christmas treats department! He's a champion at emptying traps without injury.

Yes, we could get rid of the dog door and likely the entire problem. However, with two older pups at home all day, and with generally mild temperatures in our region, it’s a convenience that I would like to continue to have access to.

Thus, I need to improve my rat-catcher game! Clearly my nemesis enjoys the bait that I’ve put out, he’s just managed to circumvent the trap elements. I need to find something that works better!

Either that, or teach the dogs to open and close the door themselves!

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