The Chalet

 

We moved here from Idaho in the late 80’s. Back then, much of the area was cornfields and poultry farms. There were some fairly new residential neighborhoods springing up with vinyl fences, paved roads, and sidewalks. It was fun to explore on foot or on my bike. I remember passing a cul-de-sac with a yellow sign at the mouth saying, “Dead End” and another beneath it, saying “Deaf Child.” Presumably it was put there to warn drivers to watch for a small boy or girl playing in the street who might not hear cars coming. Four years later we outgrew our little house and built a larger one about a mile to the southeast. Fourteen years after that, it was time to downsize. We bought a smaller home less than a mile west, and we’ve owned it ever since. It’s been nearly thirty-five years now, but that “Deaf Child” sign is still there. That must be one seriously old kid.