Even though I've missed having a yard (besides the upkeep), I have found a small way to experience the outdoors: our petite balcony. This balcony runs the entire length of our apartment, but is extremely narrow. We're just able to fit two folding chairs face-to-face. Still, it's great for enjoying a morning cup of coffee, or a glass of wine in the evenings.
The balcony overlooks a busy main street in our district. I love to sit out on the balcony and people-watch. It's fun to observe people walking briskly down the street, on their way to shops, to work, or to school. Others jog or walk their dogs. We see people riding on bikes, scooters, motorcycles, and skateboards. One night I even saw a group of about 50 people on roller-skates! Below us, just across the street, is a little cafe. The "regulars" camp out for hours, slowly sipping cups of coffee or mugs of beer. Most days, there's a guy that hangs out with his bulldog. He moves from table to table, conversing with the other patrons. They all seem to know him well.
Sometimes, you aren't really thankful for little things until they are missing from your life. It's going to be that way with our balcony. The weather is turning colder, and I imagine that we'll be putting the chairs out less and less as the winter months settle in. Every once in a while, though, I plan to brave the cold. I'll wrap up in a couple of warm blankets, brew my coffee extra-hot, and watch the world go by.
Love your posts! Praying for you and wishing I could come visit. We are having 3 french students come in two weeks...pray for open doors to share Christ with them.
ReplyDelete