lenienza, 5pm

At last, the remaining strokes of the painting works were done. Even with the interruption of the scaffoldings, I can already see its grandeur – the product of some years of stashing salaries, bonuses and mortgage loans. Finally, seven years of renting will come to a close.

Outside, I look at all four sides to see if everything’s put in place.

The glass on the east side walls will be a huge savings on the power bill. With the sun freely coming in, there won’t be a need to turn any lights on during the day. And, isn’t it quixotic to see the rain drip on them come rainy days?

Good that I insisted on stainless for the railings on the terrace above the car porch. Wrought irons couldn’t have been this chic. I imagine the Friday beer sessions on that terrace. But the singing should not be so loud to agitate the neighbor (I heard he has short temper).

The architect made a great job inside. The study was in hues of black and white with huge shelves pushed to the side.The same motif for the kitchen, the rooms and the bath. Solid colors; they’re not so loud. I’m thinking of giving the architect a bonus.

On the southwest corner of the lot, I’ll start growing trees: rambutan, lanzones, durian. I’ll build a payag there too where the family can stay for siesta.

‘Come on,’ my brother-in-law calls out, ‘rain’s coming!’

Suddenly, the house was gone and all that lays there is a grass-teemed piece of lot. Next time, I’ll be bringing a scythe.