A section of land a block up the road from dad’s home has recently been cleared of old growth forest to make room for a new 16 home subdivision. We’re really sad to see the forest go, as we could walk to it from the house. Part of the land is on two corner lots where they’re widening the road and putting in a stop light. Previously there were ditches on either side that made making the turn precarious. In Mandeville, the city council and planners seem to hate sidewalks and love ditches. Dad’s sister used to call them the “sons of ditches”.
On this morning, as I’m driving dad to dialysis, there’s all sorts of big construction equipment digging around, ripping up road, and knocking big pine trees over.
Dad (disgustedly eyeing the carnage): Is that where they’re puttin’ up the new sewage waste treatment plant, or did they decide on a slaughter house, or perhaps a pig farm?
Randy: (laughing, carefully making turn to avoid the ditch, pointing to a now vacant lot): Yes! And right across the street here, they’re puttin’ in that new strip club!
Dad (grunting): Yes,… I can see the sign,… coming soon.