How 'Bout Never?

Some people are just not into me - I know, I know!  Hard to imagine!

I've stopped running after them.  It's not that they aren't worth it...no, no!  They're very much worth it...but I've stopped trying to figure them out.  Whenever I notice having more time for them than they have for me, I put on my running shoes and go for a short reassess.  Interdependence is not everyone's deal, after all.  Just because they have no energy for me today - and won't return my text, my call, my email - well, maybe later, in the nursing home, we'll be best friends.  Don't burn the bridge!

There are a couple prized people who seem to dig a daily dose of me.  That's the side of the street you'll find me on...join me, if you like (we'll move over and make room for you).

- Bob Mankoff, cartoon editor, New Yorker

I'm Not Ready To Have This Conversation...

...this is my new favorite thought or phrase.  Sometimes I say it.  Sometimes I just think it.

I get in trouble when I push my agenda when my emotional mind is ruling.  Much better to walk around the block or sleep on it and then invite my rational mind to take the wheel.

Stepping away is as important as stepping in, as engaging, if you are upset, or angry, or extra emotional.  Nothing good will come and a resolution, or even a compromise, is very unlikely.

It's not that you're apathetic, you just know that the conversation is less likely to escalate if it is postponed.  This, in itself, can change everything.

Joy

I don't like their prices, but there's a whole lot about lululemon that begs my attention, and it's not just their new Post Practice Cardigan in ghost/black that I love so much!

I love what the company promotes:  "Breathing deeply, drinking water and getting outside  top the list of things we can’t live without."  I feel that way, too!  I think it's joy.   

"Joy - an essential spiritual practice growing out of faith, grace, gratitude, hope, and love. It is the pure and simple delight in being alive."

That's me this year.  Despite the drought, despite the long periods of time alone, despite my measly salary increase.  It's joy!  And family, and running, and plans to hope on.

lululemon manifesto

Good Morning, Merry Sunshine!

Thirty great years as a mother to this gorgeous human being - happy birthday, Katharine Jeanne!  Love ya!

Meeting at ORD for our 25:30:55 trip!

Morning Chi-town Walk and Talk!

Question:  I'm in, then, right?  We're friends?

I'll Follow You

Can't wait to get back on the road - our summer of being apart is one for the books.

I've learned so many things I should have known before now:  how to's mostly.  I know where the shut off valves are for water and gas and garage door.  I can maintain the hot tub and lawn and dehumidifier, and try to control how much I miss us.

On my way...I'll be listening to this sweet tune by Jon McLaughlin, I'll Follow You:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=emZ_U05REiU

Seventeen

Happy 17th Anniversary, love.  I think this is a legit long-term relationship!  It's been a fun ride...thanks to YOU!

ON MARRIAGE A satisfying marriage that lasts a lifetime is more likely to result when partners are fundamentally similar and share the same basic values and goals. Although romantic love initially brings most couples together, what keeps them together is an abiding friendship, an ability to communicate, a willingness to give and take, and a commitment to the institution of marriage as well as to each other. - an elderly expert on marriage, quoted in the NY Times