Editor’s note: Peggy Gachet has accepted an invitation to write a twice-monthly Spoonbill Courier column. If you would like to share your thoughts and writings, please reach out to the editor.

By Peggy Gachet

Like many of you, I enjoy taking walks around the neighborhood. While many have a routine and strike out with the same friends – walking the same route and doing so at the same time every day – I prefer variety when my schedule allows.  I see different neighbors, meet different dogs and notice different  things. 

On very early mornings those out are pretty much all about exercise.  About an hour or so after sun up a more casual start to the day ensues.  People may even congregate in the middle of the road, annoying most drivers. Pet lovers walk with a pocket full of treats as dogs greet each other like long lost friends.  We could all learn more about their true example of living and loving in the moment. By 730AM the roads are a buzz of activities.  Delivery trucks are lost, people can’t find their way out of the community and lawn care providers have almost every street blocked.  That, my friend, is when patience is needed and caution is required.  Ever heard of getting hit by a Mack Truck?  If you aren’t careful, you could find yourself nose to nose with one delivering building supplies.

But, back to the lawn care providers.  Imagine for a moment it is 90 degrees at 8AM and you will be working in the heat all day.  Those days are right around the corner. So next time you want to bark at someone who left the truck door open or accidentally blew debris in your car window (or worse yet, your face), or at those who wear ear plugs and can’t hear you creeping up behind them – my challenge is to take a deep breath, smile and wave.  It’s the little things that make a big difference.

OK, now to the punch line and back to the topic at hand – Observations.  I have noticed a huge difference in the appearance of yards managed by Bright View.  In fact, I mentioned my observations to the owner of one such well-manicured yard one day and asked for his secret.  No sooner had I asked but a crew showed up in the area to work.  This neighbor knew their names.  He spoke to each one with respect and asked so very politely if they could help him with something that day.  I witnessed first hand what I believe to be the difference in yard appeal.  The crew all wanted to help this owner.  They felt appreciated and respected. 

I then knew the answer to my question about why some yards look so good, while others, let’s just say, don’t.