Two Strikes and A Hit

It was a rough day today. I went over to our rental home, just to say hi to my husband. I also felt like it was time for me to make sure it looked “showable.” I quickly discovered it was not. My husband had made certain that everything was in working order, but the aesthetics of the place was less than desirable. I wouldn’t want to rent the place.

I did a little walk through, Roxie in tow, making mental notes about what needed to be added to make it look homier. It needed a few towels, some accessories for the kitchen, a couple of tiebacks for the curtains, plants, and I also decided a folding table with a nice table cloth and chairs were needed in the dining room. Now it doesn’t look as cold and barren. It looks inviting, with tons of potential.

While I was making those mental notes, I went out to my car, again bringing Roxie with me. While I was out there, a shorthaired, tan colored dog charged Roxie and me. It was terrifying! I screamed for help, but by the time my husband noticed what was going on, it was over. Nothing bad happened, except that I was mush by the time the dog ran away from us. I screamed at it to go home, and I pointed across the street. Unbelievably, the dog obeyed me. But the damage was already done.

I ran to the safety of my car, and sat inside. I quickly got out my purse, as my husband came around to the window. I asked him for some type of drink, and I popped the anxiety medicine with some Gatorade that he had in his truck. I was in tears and breathing rapidly by the time I was able to swallow that pill. I survived, but I was shaking and freaked out. I even had a flashback. It was agonizing.

But it didn’t end there. I drove home and calmed down for awhile. I decided that I didn’t want that scare to define my day, so I loaded up the car with guest towels, plants, and other staging items, and off I went to decorate the rental. When I got there, my mood had improved enough to function, and I felt relaxed as I transformed the place. This is the rewarding part of being a landlord. Placing decorative touches throughout the house to make it look like a home. I finished up with a trip to the local nursery, picking up some chrysanthemums for some floral color spots.

Out of the corner of my eye, I saw our neighbor getting ready to go for a motorcycle ride. I decided to go over and say hello, with the intent to discuss an overgrown tree that I thought was hanging too much into his yard. I was treated with animosity and disrespect. In fact, he said I had only been nice to him when I wanted something, and that I was an “effing bitch.”Only he said the real words!  I couldn’t believe my ears.

As he drove off in a huff, I went and knocked at the door to talk to his wife about this. I had no idea why he thought I was the enemy, but I had been convinced by him, that I was. His wife was genuinely surprised at his behavior and stated that this was entirely out of character. She apologized for him, and as we talked she even gave me a hug. Overall the experience would have upset me beyond recovery except that before I finally left the rental, I went to a discount store to pick up a couple pairs of curtains. While looking for curtains, I discovered the cutest, softest doggie bed. I simply HAD to have it for Roxie. So I bought a special gift for her.

There is nothing like a dog at home to keep your mind off your troubles! I brought the bed straight into the family room to see if Roxie liked it. She is scared of most things, and withdraws and retreats from anything that makes her feel uncomfortable, so I was a little worried. As usual, this worry was a waste of time. Roxie LOVED her new bed.

Roxie's New Bed