The Porch

June 19, 2021

The Porch

"Don't Panic." - Douglas Adams, The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy

So there's this porch.

If you're a short-term renter -- a summer person -- and you want a cheerful feeling and view when you come home to your summer rental cottage, and maybe for someone going past to think that someone does indeed live here, but replacing the porch and front door and storm door in need of replacement isn't an option, nor is making any structural upgrades, or even painting, what does that leave?

Decor.

Experiments toward decor solutions.

And cleaning.

Lots of Mrs. Meyer's cleaning products.

Step 1: Don't panic.

Step 2: Order a bamboo broom and scrub brush, and a jaunty translucent bucket from The Container Store through Instacart; combine with existing new sponges and Mrs. Meyer's dish soap and cleaning spray. Order a bright new doormat and color scheme-aligned outdoor pillows from Target.

Step 3: Continue not to panic.

Step 4. Sweep, soap, scrub, ending with a waterfall down the swept scrubbed steps.

Step 5: Notice birds watching (inverse of birdwatching), wondering perhaps why you are bothering, or cheering you on in your quixotic integrity, or just saying hey neighbor.

Step 6: If you can't replace, repair, or conceal it, have some fun with it: print a little sign, add a little sticker, tie some ribbons.

Step 7: Do consider replacing the wooden bench that sags from rot when you sit on it. Search for a "new" vintage bench? A couple of charming chairs? And a pleasant door wreath while we're at it? Project Porch continues!

Step 8: Smile -- what else can you do! -- and listen to the birdsong and the quiet behind the birdsong that first enticed you here!