Last Friday we had an overnight in Des Moines, Iowa. On Saturday morning, after eating breakfast, I went on a walk through the neighborhood behind the hotel. I like walking in this hood because of its feel. The homes were built back in the late 40’s and early 50’s. They have no sidewalks so walking is done in the street against traffic or on someone’s grass. The homes are small but located on large lots so your home is not right on top of your neighbor. Very few had attached garages and those that did were built more recently. These garages were located either in the back of the house or near the back edge of the house. I like this style of neighborhood and think this small home would fit me to a tee. Oh, and many of them had full basements.
There was a wonderful feel of Spring in the air. Trees had leaves budding and blossoms were in full bloom. Clear skies and a temperature of 60 degrees at 9:30 in the morning. I was amazed at the Magnolia trees with their massive blossoms. With the rain and wind from the day before many of the petals from the blossoms had fallen off. I talked with a man wearing a white t-shirt and khaki cargo shorts and house slippers, who was racking up the petals from his two Magnolia trees. We had a good laugh together when he said, “These trees are nice for about two weeks then they are pain the butt (not his chosen word) after that.”
And, while Earl, Paul and Tom were wandering the streets Salisbury, NC, then eating at a nice Thai restaurant, I found this little Chinese restaurnat, called the Tsing Tsao South. I like the mystery of sampling the small mom and pop places. A very attractive Chinese lady greeted me, took my order and seated me. One of the two Mexican cook brought it to my table while the radio played a Beatles tune. However, the decor was wonderfully Chinese with dragons and paper lamps. Just above my table were these three wise men watching as I ate. As they watched I took a couple of photos since I just happen to have my camera with m. I enjoyed the walk and the food!
5 Comments
Paul
That restaurant that you went to sounds rather eclectic, Monte, but it certainly sounds good! I also like those small, modest homes on a nice piece of land, not all jammed up next to each other.
Monte Stevens
Thanks, Paul. I was a bit disappointed with the Kung Poa, it was too bland for me. I expected more kick to it. And, eclectic defines it very well. All the Spanish conversation made my laugh. Seemed out of place.
Ken Bello
I like those small houses too. What they lack in size they make up in character. If the neighborhood is safe enough to walk in, you could find some bargains because a lot of the younger folk want the 4000 sq. ft. houses they build today.
Earl
Sometimes a smaller home can be a blessing and there are certainly homes that are much too large for my needs and taste these days. Bonnie and I was talking the other day that if given the choice we might pick someplace else to live besides Salisbury, we are very happy with the size and layout of our house.
Monte Stevens
Being happy, content with what we have is so important to us. My condo is only 760 sqf and all I really need. For a bachelor that’s easy house keeping. Yet, I’m also nomadic so I’m on the road a lot. Home can be many places for some people.