my world gets cleaner

It's been four years since I've had my windows washed.   I wanted to wait until my sofa was gone so there would be no obstacles preventing access to the living room windows. That's my poor excuse.

I call Frank's Window Cleaning and speak to Rich, the owner. We agree on a date and a price.

Vance comes around 9. He's done my windows before. He's a big guy, short of breath, and  a true professional. Though he doesn't come with a step stool, at least this time he comes with a bucket.

Vance tells me that my screens have rotted and I need to throw them out. I don't open my windows all that much, but now I'll be afraid of a pigeon flying in. Can these birds squeeze through if I open the window just a crack? I hope not.

The windows badly need to be cleaned.

living room

living room — I think (hope) the picture makes it look much worse than it actually was

Vance cannot close one of the upper windows in the living room and has to call Rich, his boss, to come over and help. Apparently there is a tiny crack in the window that is affecting the frame.

Then Vance tells me that some of the small spots don't come off the windows because, "It's been so long since you've had them cleaned that dirt has embedded itself into the windows themselves."  

Vance cleans all ten of my windows (plus two CitiQuiet windows I had installed years ago). His work is impeccable.

I was told by Rich that the total cost would be $159. Cash or check only.

But before I even pay, Vince says,  "You're a good person. I love you to death. But I'd never come back here."

He then goes on to explain. "This job should have been over $200. I've been here two hours. I only made $80.  I just get half of what you pay."

I don't know what to say. So I hand Vince $175, say thank you, and wonder if I'll ever see him again.

In the meantime, my world looks a lot brighter.