The Little White Cottage

      Several times a week I drive by a lovely little white cottage near my home.  I don't remember what was there before the cottage appeared; I think the former structure must have blended right in with the rest of the houses on the street, so I never paid much attention to it.  

    The little white cottage is unique in many ways.  What occurred to me the first time I saw the place was that the owners must love their home very much. Every season and holiday, they decorate the cottage beautifully.  The most recent theme was autumn; soon it will be time for Christmas and the little white cottage will be transformed in a winter wonderland.  The seasonal decoration is abundant; I find myself wondering where the heck they store all that stuff!!!  It's a lot, but it's a lot in a really good way.  

    Often, I thought to myself that I should just stop at the cottage and tell the owners how much I admire and appreciate what they've done to the place. Then, myself says back to me, "They'll think you're some kind of crazy stalker...if they even bother to answer the door for some random stranger."  Oh, myself, you are such a downer.  

    Recently, I gathered every bit of my courage.  I parked my car in their driveway and walked to the front door.  I knocked; the door was opened immediately.  It was as though the lady of the house had been waiting for me.  I said, "You don't know me (d'uh), but every time I drive by your house I want to stop and tell you how beautiful and welcoming you have made your home."  This dear lady said, "Why don't you come in?"  I guess I don't look particularly threatening, but still, I wasn't expecting to be invited inside, and so quickly!  It's a good thing I am not a serial killer.

    How was the inside?  It was GLORIOUS!!!!; EVEN BETTER than the outside. I know, I couldn't believe it, either!  It felt like one of those beautifully welcoming bed and breakfast places, where everything is cozy, warm, color coordinated, clean, and, well, absolutely perfect.  There was even a perfect little white fuzzy dog that seemed to be utterly thrilled that I had arrived. 

    The lady of the house and her husband gave me a tour of the inside of the cottage well as the back yard.  Of course, the back yard was just as welcoming as the inside, and as welcoming as those dear folks who opened their home to me.  I admit that I was extremely effusive in my praise; I was practically drooling.  I think the husband was a bit afraid of me.  I asked him his name and he said, "Ronald McDonald." I told him that he looked much better in person. 

    After I had finished gushing and praising, I thanked them for their kindness.  I left their home feeling better about our world.  In this crazy time, where people, including myself, are less trusting than we used to be, I was amazed by the reception I received at the little white cottage on the road that I travel almost daily.  I admire and love this place even more now that I have had the sheer joy of meeting the owners.  I have to say, it restored my faith in humanity a bit.  I think that is a good thing.