Gardens, Seating Areas, Patterns and Neighborhood Walks

Rather than walk over to the Mall this morning we took another path towards Union Station and then in to the neighborhood. For whatever reason we are avoiding the marches that are scheduled today and tomorrow. We usually like to see what’s going on regardless of the agenda, but just not up to it during  these last several dreary winter days. I was more interested to see what the leftover snow was looking like now that it’s almost melted. Sometimes the most unusual patterns can emerge. There was a huge chunk of snow hanging precariously from the rooftop - just don’t walk out the front door at the wrong time. The red brick townhouses stand out - each a little different than the one next to it. The patio seating arrangements don’t look quite as inviting as during the summer months. The flowers really pop in front of a white background. Sidewalks have patterns along the grout lines and you can certainly see the paw prints of the four legged fury friends. Some very thoughtful person set up three birdhouses far enough away from a predator, but I think the squirrels can still find a way to disturb them. I suppose each season has its attraction. I really have to work at not only finding the unusual sights, but actually liking them. 

The Good Neighbor?

When you live in a single family home you can get away with making loud noises, tramping about, and having a surround sound on your tv. But when you live in an 1890's old building without insulation, even the lightest footsteps can be annoying. And when you live on the first floor there is no getting away from it. We have been living in our tiny condo for eleven years. Since this is a very transient neighborhood, our neighbors have come and gone. Some are better than others. But it seems that with every new upstairs neighbor, they don't realize - or don't care - if they make any disturbing noise. So after a few months of a breaking in period, we usually have to write a note about the fact that the walls are like paper. Such was the case last week. I have a draft note I keep on file because invariably it needs to be used. So we reprinted it and left it on the mailbox. Generally, the occupant complies - to a point. This time the gentleman came down to leave a written response on our door. But when he saw my husband in the hallway, he introduced himself and asked if there was anything more he could do. I am sorry to say that most people who live in this town react in more of a hostile manner, so this was a pleasant surprise. Luckily this person is only here during the week so there are quiet times as well. It just amazes me how people in general seem to have little regard to whatever goes on around them. There are certain rules of etiquette that apply when one lives in a community setting. Or at least we always thought so.