This morning I woke up and figured that I would clean up some of the mess I have left on the dresser only to find that there were rat droppings all over my stuff. So gross. I had to clean it up, and boil some of my stuff just in case (soap dish, toothbrush/holder). I had always heard the rat in the closet, but never saw or heard it outside of there. I didnt know it was crawling all over my stuff when I wasn´t there. I just assumed we had an unspoken bond, it would stay in the closet, and I would stay out it. But, it has crossed the line. Well at least it has not chewed up my clothes (or at least that I can tell - yet) or my luggage. My friend has holes in some of his clothes because of the rats in his place. So I consider myself lucky. My host mom told me that she found a dead one in her room and that she is going to set up more traps around the house. But she doesn´t say it in a loud voice because rats are smart, and if they hear her, they won´t go near the traps and will hide out in other parts of the house. Whatever works to kill those suckers. Say it in a low voice or a loud voice, as long as they are out of my room.
This week was so busy, I don´t even remember what I did on Monday. On Tuesday we went hiking up to one of the volunteer sites. It was fun, and hot. I am not used to hiking in this humidity. I was last in line, but at least I didnt take the easy way out and ride in the jeep! I was huffing and puffing up and down the hills, trying my best not to slip. Someone told me, you are not in LA anymore, and he was so right. I am so out of shape. But I made it, and finally at the top of the hill there was this nice breeze and a view of the green mountains. Not to mention a few burros (donkeys) along the way. After a quick lunch, I put on my bathing suit and went on another hike to the waterfall. This one was even trickier than the first, and we had to cross a river. Again, I was one of the last to arrive. Thank goodness I was wearing my Tevas, cause otherwise I would have slid on the rocks or on the mossy steps. The waterfall was worth it. After a sweaty trek through the mountain, the water was so cold and refreshing. Good times.
This internet cafe is so funny. There is a mini party in here with the people that own it. They are drinking and dancing, and the music is on full blast. What else is new? My hearing is going to be so bad by the end of these two years. I think Dominicans are born dancing, even the little kids know how to move better than me. Its like they are straight out of the music videos. Seriously dancing like crazy. Even this two-year I know starts to dance regueton as soon as the music comes on. I wish I could video it. Its too funny. They dance non-stop. But, I am getting better. I have asked my little nephew to show me how, and he has no problem getting up and moving about.
I don´t know if I am tanning, or just layers of dirt that my bucket baths just don´t cut.I will take the tan route. Either way, today I was told I looked more fuerte (strong) than when I first got to the campo. Which means that I have gained weight. I laughed, what do they expect when they feed me fried cheese, boiled green plantains, loads of white rice, and over-sugared drinks? They meant it as a compliment (I think). Either way, I am now more ¨fuerte.¨ Yay. Lucky me.
