Accommodations

From Mia Cope

When I was hired as General Manager and Chief Security Officer at Casa de Togo, I had some definite things in mind regarding operational procedures and line of authority. However, I learned that a certain degree of flexibility makes my life easier.

Some of those things are physical in nature. For example, I’ve found that the architects for the Casa did not take canine preferences into consideration. For example, as CSO it is my duty to monitor the approach and demeanor of visitors. The most convenient place for that is the front hallway.

I informed Daddy, our Grounds and Maintenance worker, that having the front door open during operating hours was a necessity. He dismissed the idea, citing the fact that the glass storm door was grossly energy inefficient. It transmitted too much heat in the summer and too much cold in the winter. Daddy suggested that we simply open the blinds on a couple of front windows.

I could have put my foot down — perhaps even all four. Instead, I took a gentler approach. My meeting with the chair of the board of Casa de Togo lasted almost a full minute. After which, Momma called Daddy in and told him to replace the storm door.

It took a couple of weeks to get it installed. Momma explained that this kind of door is rarely sold in Abilene and assured me that Daddy was diligent in researching, ordering a door, and procuring an installation team. When the door was in place, we were all pleased. At least, I was after I convinced Daddy to move my favorite rug up close.

Depending on the time of day, I try to vary the viewpoint of my observation post. In the heat of summer, I like to stretch out on the cool tile. Unfortunately, tile is hard and I sometimes find it necessary to opt for multiple surfaces. Granted, this particular position is not ideal for keeping an eye on the front walk. But I have exceptional hearing and have found that I alert to an approaching visitor at least 5 seconds prior to them ringing the doorbell or knocking on the door. (Note the positioning of my ears in the first photo below. Also note the optimal placement of my head for comfort in the second photo.)

I’ve also had to make accommodations simply because my lookout point also doubles as the front hallway and attracts no small amount of traffic.

During a recent visit, I discovered that my nephew, Henry, has been trained to take off his shoes upon entering a home. And they remain wherever they were removed. Fortunately, I have become adept at personal spatial placement and can usually squeeze into a tight spot, when necessary.

My jurisdiction at Casa de Togo stretches far beyond the boundaries of the estate and requires adaptability. When Daddy has to make a day trip, I’ve made it known that it is unacceptable to simply skip a neighborhood reconnaissance tour. That has resulted in some very early morning expeditions. But I’m willing to accommodate for the safety of the team.

And I’m never too busy to stop along the way and smell the roses. Or, in this case, sunflowers. (Did you know that sunflowers do have a scent? In fact, there are four distinct smells, depending on the variety. They can hint at being earthy & green, sweet & nutty, or chocolate. I told Daddy this was a chocolate one. Turns out it was the fourth variety — pollen-heavy. My mistake.)

I find that attitude can often make all the difference when it comes to being accommodating. And, with a little patience and a winning smile, I usually get whatever I want anyway.