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His Property Taxes Him

Petals have now fallen from the final rose
His forsythia bush is ready for pruning
Weeds are taking over where his lilac grows
And, fall bulbs not taken up are ruining.

His backyard fencing is beginning to sag
And the roof on his house needs replacing
In fact, he has nothing about which to brag
I shall not complain, for I am self-effacing.

Since I enjoy working in my own backyard
It is beautifully trimmed and neat as can be
He watches me spending hours working hard
While he neglects his property assiduously.

My neighbor constantly bemoans of his plot
While I listen, I ride my mower like crazy
I have long since wearied of his pitiful lot,
Neither a shower nor a grower, … he is lazy!

written July 16, 2021

Copyright © L Milton Hankins | Year Posted 2021

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Caren Krutsinger Date: 7/18/2021 5:36:00 PM I can see you riding away from his grousing as fast as you can. "While I listen, I ride my mower like crazy" Hilarious! Login to Reply L Milton Hankins Date: 7/18/2021 5:38:00 PM Yep. Actually, this is fiction. My neighbor cuts both of our lawns and does an excellent job. My brain was just searching for something to write about and I thought about what it would be like without him for a neighbor. Thanks for reading my ramblings, Caren.

Gary Radice Date: 7/17/2021 2:47:00 AM I enjoyed the read but I'd be wary of his sagging fence more than anything Milt as good fences make good neighbours. :) Cheers - Gary Login to Reply

Gershon Wolf Date: 7/16/2021 3:31:00 PM Interesting title there... and just wait until he gets his next property tax bill! :) gw Login to Reply L Milton Hankins Date: 7/16/2021 7:12:00 PM Hmmm...the word "taxing" sometimes means "tedious" or "making one tired." That may be idiomatic, however. Thanks for your comment, Gershon.

Denise Retro Date: 7/16/2021 12:49:00 PM The burdens of being a property owner? Nice one! Login to Reply L Milton Hankins Date: 7/16/2021 12:58:00 PM Partially. There is a certain joy in owning and keeping up one's property, I think. Thanks for your read and your comment, Denise. I really appreciated it.