The Unwavering Optimism of Neighbor Gwomans

In our tiny town, Gwomans, an elderly neighbor, routinely salvaged recyclables from our trash. One day, after cleaning out a fish tank, we discarded the gravel and plastic plants, leaving them atop the already brimming garbage can. To our surprise, Gwomans summoned me over to showcase her latest project a week later.

With the gravel and faux flora from our trash, she’d crafted a quaint, colorful array alongside her home. She proudly claimed her new plants were thriving, and I couldn’t help but play along, commending her on her resourcefulness and her cheerful, albeit quirky, version of a green thumb.

Next: A startling discovery at the edge of my yard.