post-apocalyptic

Our house sits well back from the road, hidden from view of passing cars by trees and a long driveway. To the left is an expanse of land with nothing but power lines, to the right a set of neighbors also screened by trees. We can see their house, but you can't tell what's going on over there. Our back yard is also surrounded by trees, and the entire cul-de-sac behind us is also hidden. All of which makes the house feel completely private and isolated. (This is an especially good thing in swimming season, so I can dry off outside and not drip on the floors!)

But the whole thing together inescapably makes me think of The Stand and other post-apocalyptic tales. As I drive or walk up the driveway or I lie in bed unable to sleep, my mind fills with questions such as "How would I get water all the way here with no car?" "The basement would be the warmest/coolest place, but would it be worth all the lighting supplies I would waste?" And other complicated plans that would ensue once some kind of apocalypse left me alone in my home with none of the ongoing trappings of civilization. (It's always me alone, since that's the standard post-apocalyptic bit. Also, if I picture Lou and/or the kids, that elevates it from speculation to potential tragedy.)

I suspect that if an apocalyptic future comes, I'm more likely to be a hapless victim than a lone survivor ... but it's an interesting and unavoidable speculation.