A Landlord’s Lament.

     It’s Saturday morning. Snow is falling. First snow of the year. Doesn’t appear very heavy. Drove by the rental yesterday. It is being updated. Of course, nobody thought to rake the leaves to the curb. It isn’t the workers’ fault, I didn’t put it on the list. It is a small yard, you would think they could show some initiative. That’s on me—I’m the boss. Still snowing. Maybe a little harder now. It’s Saturday morning. I don’t want to go over there. Sometimes I hate being a landlord. It’s only a couple miles from home. But it’s Saturday morning. The weather forecast says that this could be 5- 8 inches. They’re never right. It also says it will warm up in a couple days. Even if it is 8 inches it will be melted by then. Or will it? Might it be a soggy mess by then? When is the last leaf pickup this year? November 25, day before Thanksgiving. What is today’s date? November 21. It will be melted by then. What if it isn’t? Less than an inch of snow has fallen. If you wait too long it will be very difficult. But it’s Saturday morning. Quit whining! Just do it. Get over there.

      Good thing this is a small yard. There are really more leaves here than I would have thought. It will look a lot better when it is shown to prospective tenants when they’re gone. Get to work. It isn’t really very cold when you’re moving. Think of it like a work out. Ughh, two fast food soda cups. Damn, I hate it when the people I pay throw their trash around. Who did they think would pick it up? It may not have been them. It still isn’t my job. Yes, it is—it is your house. Just pick up the cups. Pisses me off. Channel that energy—let it flow through you—direct it toward the leaves. Pick up the pace. I am actually sweating. It isn’t cold at all. Dare I say it? This is actually kind of fun. I’ll be done in no time. It is my house. I have the biggest pile of leaves at the curb on the block. Of course, the other homeowners put some leaves out at the first pick up date. Yes, but this is my pile—in front of my house. I own this house free and clear. Puts a good deal of money in my pocket when it is rented. It is still early morning. You are wide awake and ready for the day. Going to a concert tonight. Maybe splurge a little. Wouldn’t be in this financial position without this house and the others. I’m glad I am a landlord.