Be it ever so humble

 So, okay, the building is a bit of a dump. On closer inspection, it’s not just dingy, it’s dirty. Clearly, everything has been neglected for years. Our windows (and those of our neighbours) are stained – on the outside, anyway – with grime that simply won’t come off. The window screens are so fragile they break at the touch of a finger. The walls, doors, landing floors and stairs never get mopped, nor do the hallway carpets get vacuumed. This I know because I am here all the time. And because anyone can see the litter that nobody is sweeping up in the front entrance.

Now, having recently run into a neighbour, I’ve heard that our concierge is sick at present. That doesn’t excuse several years of overall negligence, however. And because the buildings (ours and the one next door) are run by a company, I don’t expect any joy. I will just take care of my own square foot, as they say.

Also, because I do always look for the silver lining, one thing I do enjoy is sitting outside at sundown. Not only do we get spectacular skies at sunset, I also see geese as they make their way to their overnight accommodations by the river. They fly very low, right over our rooftop, sometimes silently like stealth bombers and sometimes issuing their inimitable honk.

Another plus is the fact that there are no fast-food chains or even convenience stores very close by. Last night I wished for an A&W burger; there is an outlet not that far away, but I can safely say that yes, I am that lazy, and instead I made myself an omelette. Felt virtuous, although not entirely satisfied.