So, I Have to Write a Blog

This semester I'm immersing myself in the urban jungle that is Somerville, MA. As an unpaid, overworked beat reporter, I'll be shedding light on the stories of the city I call home for little or no recognition. Grad school... ouch.

As a journalist who is tirelessly pursuing objectivity, I really can't inject myself into the stories I'm covering. But this is a blog, so I can do whatever I want, right?

I've decided to share some stories of the strange but endearing people who have chosen to introduce themselves into my life here in Davis Square. Inexplicably, I attract unusualness. Or maybe I'm just really observant and pick up on things others don't. I feel it's a gift rather than a burden.

In the spirit of Valentine's Day, I'm happy to share with you the story of...

The Couple That is Having an Affair in Front of My House

I first spotted these two when I was sans internet and TV. Having just moved in to the apartment, I was limited on entertainment and took to getting to know my new digs. Or, as this post might have you believe, spying on my neighbors.

I saw the couple, hand-in-hand, walking up and down the sidewalk... in front of my house. Just in front of my house. The only variation on their 100 feet long route was to stop and chat by a tree at one end of the neighbor's driveway. Other than that, they paced in front of 59 Winslow Ave, seemingly unaware that they were on the cracked and uneven sidewalk of a working-class city and not the countryside of Southern France, or some equally romantic destination.  

In a disturbing, "Rear Window" way, I felt as though I'd seen something I shouldn't have. I shrugged it off as a one-time, strange occurrence and went back to wishing I had DVR.

Then they came back. Who are these people? I'm guessing they didn't pick my building for its aesthetic value. It's old, the backyard borders a Rite Aid parking lot, and the wrought iron porch is literally hanging off the stoop. They haven't shown any blatant signs of mental illness (that might explain the pacing), and judging by their dress, these are two professionals. They seem capable of carrying on a conversation and they obviously have the means to get to the square (they're great at walking) - how about going to a coffee shop?

I guess I can see why these two have chosen the street itself to have a secret love affair (because I've deemed this an elicit scandal and not a legitimate relationship). Winslow Avenue is extremely quiet, and half of it is a one-way. It's also within walking distance to a train and bus station, all favorable factors in case they get caught and need a quick get-away.

Though their motives for picking my house are unclear and their actions suggest a real lack in the social life department, I guess the sidewalk in front of my house is a safe and inconspicuous spot for them to take a stroll. I feel almost protective of them now, like I'm harboring two innocent fugitives. I bet they're being persecuted for their choices of life partner. Is there a better explanation? I doubt it.

I'd share a picture of them, but A) I don't have one, B) I don't want to give them away and, C) That would be even creepier than the fact that I've just written a blog post about them.