f16

(no subject)

Nov 02, 2003 07:31

I moved into the trailer some weeks ago, while it was still a hard-hat construction zone. Nothing like saw dust between the sheets. Since, I have become pretty well settled in and last Wednesday I officially decided the trailer was presentable. Then, as if prompted by a soft whisper only she could hear, monkeygrrrl called to ask how I was doing. I was so glad she called and we immediately made plans for Sunday. We visited Downtown Books and News where we each found a treasure or two; had lunch at the cafe across the street; and then rode out to my place.

Now I didn't do the Before and After picture thing with this place. But monkeygrrrl had become my Before and After person. She had come out once about five weeks ago to see the new place and she got to see it in all its dumpy singlewide glory. She saw the tore flooring, stained carpets, dirty walls spotted with holes, the saggy floors, and old cranky type windows. She saw it all and I can best describe her reaction as Kind. She was kindly saying that it had potential and that it could be better, if not good, with some work. But that was too easy to see through. In truth she was a shocked and even a bit afraid for me. She saw it for what it was, but couldn't see what I envisioned. I knew then I had found my best possible Before and After person.

As we pulled up the driveway her reaction to the outside of the trailer was neutral. She had seen it once before so there wasn't any shock... it hadn't changed and I explained I have not begun to address the outside of this place yet. She played it cool as we climbed the porch and we went on inside. Her reaction there was open, genuine, and priceless. She was surprised by the extent of the transformation.. As we moved through the trailer each room brought new surprises of delight. This neglected dumpy 1973 singlewide had become warm and comfortable. Even conducive to good things. I am pleased. It was good to see a friend sit in my new place for a visit; clearly comfortable in the environment I had created. And it is good to care again. I had long since ceased caring in my old place.

The year has been a strange one, but it's coming around. Dawning upon something good. I am looking to 2004 as a year of great contrast from the present and I spend each day now preparing for it.

Thanks monkeygrrrl for coming out. Thanks for being my Before and After. And BTW, I found the cables you need for your computer. I'll drop them off on my next trip into town.

Now I'm off to hammer and saw on the shed.
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