Sunday, January 06, 2008

I have moved to Jamaica Plain, MA, reportedly the most culturally diverse neighborhood in the greater Boston area. A casual look at my block shows this to be true. Asian folk, Mid-East folk, Af-Am folk, Eastern European folk, Suburban-white folk, and dogs, they're all here. There are not many radical departures from what I have known before, but I do want to share some things that I have noticed about my surroundings.

Let's begin with my neighbors across the street. These are environmentally- conscious folks (note the large, blue recycling bin?) from an undisclosed Asian country, and we have only exchanged casual greetings as we pass on the sidewalk, collect the mail, or shovel out space in the snow to leave a car in front of the building. You will not see their picture in this post, but I believe they are devotees to a 'newly constructed' faith. Just check out the image of their shrine here:


Once I have introduced myself, I shall inquire about the name of their deity and the nature of their religion.

One theory includes: A religion based on 'new construction' or 'reconstruction' of the self, blended with an emphasis on traveling safely.


I mentioned that there are dogs on the street, too. In addition to the renovated kitchen, new appliances (including a dishwasher!), and hardwood floors, my apartment came with a small dog.
He is a puggle, a pug and beagle mix, named Charlie. Charlie already has a home with humans that tend his every need. He is lonely, and asked me to post this picture and personal ad, hoping interested parties will respond to me or his owners:


Charlie is an Aquarius who likes short walks and long walks, tennis balls, and prefers bovine chew-products. He is non-denominational, a non-smoker, NOT a vegetarian, and enjoys an occasional beer or glass of wine. A ladies' dog (and a lady's dog), Charlie likes pillows, and casual-wear collars and leashes. He has no offspring of his own, but is very eager to start a family.



Note: Charlie is in a 'casual' relationship with a pug female ... but at the moment is not committed.