The Neighborhood
Since Houston is a driving -- not a walking -- city, one of the benefits of having a dog is that Callie and I wind up walking around the neighborhood far more than we probably otherwise would, and finding out more about the people nearby than we probably otherwise would.
But even though there's a familiarity with the neighborhood and its people, there's not much depth to the knowledge. For example, about 6-8 lots down from us, there's a meticulously kept brick home that's been for sale for many months. An extremely friendly older man lives there, apparently just with his dog (a tiny, yappy sort). He frequently leaves his door open, with a screen door holding in the dog, and can often be heard talking to his dog. He usually leaves his curtains open as well, and his furnishings would indicate that at some point, there was a lady of considerable taste in his life.
I've run into him a few times while walking Kiwi, and he's always very pleasant. He once beamed when I complimented him on his American flag, which was flying before 11 September. I suspect he was flying the flag well before 11 September, being a member of that older generation who fought wars to proect America instead of cultural wars to denigrate it. That's just my impression of the gentleman, though.
I've never visited with him at any length, because he seemed fairly private despite his easy approachability, so I've never quite figured out why he was selling his beautiful home. Callie and I suspect it has something to do with his health. I seem to recall his being ill and away from home some months ago, but I don't even remember how I know that. Probably his family or friends have convinced him that his home is too much trouble and work, and that he'd be happier in a lower maintenance townhouse or apartment. I always guessed he really didn't want to move all that badly, as his home seemed overpriced (even for such a well maintained property) -- and thus if nobody met his price, he could happily stay in the neighborhood.
It's always kind of reassuring to go by his place when walking Kiwi, and see his flag flying and his door open behind his screen door, and sometimes him sitting inside, always by himself, reading -- and think that, maybe, one of these days, I'll have the chance to visit with him further. He just seems like he probably has some interesting stories to tell, but would never think of imposing on a casual neighbor passing by.
It came as a bit of a sad jolt just now to go by with Kiwi, and to see the wooden door shut behind the screen door today, and the sign below the real estate sign: "Sale Pending"
[Posted at 19:04 CST on 06/26/02] [Link]
