I was searching for a place nearby my home where I could focus and write for a few days. While my writing wasn’t as focused as I’d like (I don’t think anything really is in 2020), but Maddalena’s place was a wonderful stay.
She is very kind and considerate, good at communication despite the time difference (she was in Italy). The folks in the front house could see you through the kitchen window when you walk by the front but otherwise, it’s very private.
The power went out in the evening for a few hours and I ended up having a chat with the neighbor, who was also very nice.
The neighborhood is interesting, having met some locals who were there since the 70s- 80s, it was hard for me to shake the feeling of how it used to be in the area and the obvious gentrification. If you’ve ever been to Portland, it has a feeling similar to that.
Her space is decorated with thoughtful touches, a bowler hat hanging light, an Italian hand painted mask, Albert Einstein cutout on the mirror (there’s another funny cut out above the door which I will leave for you to be surprised by), even a sweet note on another mirror. The bed is very comfortable (I actually want to know what mattress topper you use because I loved it!) and the plants really add the to privacy. The hammock was great and supported my son weight just fine.
Had some early morning visitors on the roof, you might hear some squirrels in the evening and early mornings but nothing more.
It feels like a home, because it is. Thanks again, Maddalena for opening your home.