Sputterpub's Blog

As soon as we had permits, there was placed
a lockless porta-potty at our curb.
Somebody tipped it once. Someone defaced
its side with paint. Its bulk did not disturb
my eyes, it didn’t stink, no neighbor yelped.
I’m sure the residents all understood
that sight and sound disruption can’t be helped,
whenever we improve the neighborhood.

A job forecast to run three months took six.
A cabinet debacle was the cause
(abetted by a range hood). Now the fix
is mostly done. The ladders and the saws
are gone, inspections passed, I’m glad to say.
And we returned the outhouse yesterday.

My cottage is a single room. Across
a deck and rocky spot my office shed
was built. The wood went soft; the stones grew moss;
I opted to replace them both. Instead
of mixing media or using stone
for every foot, I leaped to wooden planks.
It’s done. It looks as if the space has grown.
I gaze at redwood now, and murmur thanks.

An area I used to use as hall
between two rooms, is now a milled expanse
that begs to be enjoyed. Though leaves will fall
and birds will drop their marks, my plans advance.
I’ll stand an outside couch or table there,
and read or chat on wood in open air.