For decades home ownership was the future for all of us in ministry.  No, it wasn’t a pride of ownership issue.  Rather, it was our retirement.  The economy and difficult circumstances blew that theory out of the water.

But, I have learned something recently about renting.  We have visited quite a few rental properties in the last week.  Engaging property managers has been an introduction to a very new world. 

Apartment square footage is cozy.  Models are furnished with sharp looking decor and walled mirrors to give an impression of a more expansive space.  That works until you bump into a wall of glass.

Every tour ends with a few moments in a larger unit.  The lease professional smiles and asks, “Do you like it?”  Of course all of us polite humans compliment our host!

There are some amenities that are attractive.  A swimming pool always catches my eye.  Then, there is the workout facility that is a plus. 

However, the drive around the complex has the greatest appeal.  Sounds of busy machines hum through the daytime sun.  Workers are zipping around in teams.

This active group of maintenance guys is what makes me smile.  Some are plumbers.  Others are electricians.  Then, there are always the gardeners. 

Maintenance free-living is a real plus in apartment living!  I don’t need a garage full of gardening tools.  My lawn mower is no longer needed. 

The windows would get washed.  Roofing repairs would now be regularly scheduled.  My water bill would disappear, my gas bill would no longer appear in my mail, and there would no longer be a property tax bill.

Of course I’m sad to leave our home.  It has been a great place to live.  The backyard is as tranquil a setting as I have ever thought I would enjoy in any house that I would call home.

But, time, circumstances and necessity require that we downsize.  I have already given away all of my camping gear, so we have to do something better than a tent in the woods!  But, even that has some nostaligia for us.

Maybe it’s time to give away all of my gardening tools!  I won’t have to worry about cutting the lawn, pulling weeds, pruning the trees, pulling more weeds, repairing appliances, trimming the bushes, shovelling snow or pulling even more weeds.  I could get used to maintenance free living!

photo credit: Google image