Sail

Today, we listen to AWOLNATION.

Sail.

Red Bull - Stratos Jump.  See http://www.redbullstratos.com/

A Furry Attempt

For the past week, Herself was fortunate to be able to spend some time with a cheerful young canine with camel-like eyelashes and an enthusiasm for sniffing. He is a sweet fellow, slightly timid around other dogs, patient with people, and clever enough to learn to play a bit of Fetch. He enjoys lying in a spot of sunlight. Good boy, Dog. 

Dog was trying out a partnership with a new designated human. The attempt was, from the start, an uncertain venture into an unknown land:  a risk. And the particular arrangement did not work out for several well-founded reasons.  Nevertheless, Herself is quite optimistic that Dog will soon find the right situation without difficulty. He has been in good hands, and will be so again. 

She hopes the human is not self-critical.  A step outside of a comfort zone was taken, and a solid effort was made. A bit of wisdom was gained. That is always a good thing. 

Take risks: if you win, you will be happy; if you lose, you will be wise. ~Author Unknown

Mathy

Offspring the Third hams it up, grabbing his hair in a (half-serious, half-mocking) display of despair as he contemplates his algebra homework.  He's working very hard. We are proud of him. 

Refugium

Perhaps the most important thing we bring to another person is the silence in us, not the sort of silence that is filled with unspoken criticism or hard withdrawal. The sort of silence that is a place of refuge, of rest, of acceptance of someone as they are. We are all hungry for this other silence. It is hard to find. In its presence we can remember something beyond the moment, a strength on which to build a life. Silence is a place of great power and healing. 

-  Rachel Naomi Remen

Worth

A lovely, warmhearted woman whom Herself knows through the marvels of the internet had a quotation posted on her Facebook page this morning.  We would like to share it with you.  Thank you, K. 

I'm quirky, silly, blunt, and broken. My days are sometimes too dark, and my nights are sometimes too long. I often trip over my own insecurities. I require attention, long for passion, and wish to be desired. I use music to speak when words fail me, even though words are as important to me as the air I breathe. I love hard and with all that I have... and even with my faults, I am worth loving. - Danu Grayson

Friday Evening

Nights when I'm alone

I don't bother undressing

Sweatshirt, yoga pants.

Bedside lamp is dim,

Book unopened in my hand,

Quiet is heavy.

Three dogs in the bed

Under the covers, snoring

What do they dream of?

I plan tomorrow,

Wanting things I cannot have,

And turn out the light. 

The Big 80s, Continued

Further to The Big 80s of yesterday.

Today, the Pandora station selected Elton John:  I Guess That's Why They Call It The Blues.

It reminds Herself of the years she and Beloved Husband spent apart before they were married. She would turn the radio off or change the station if this song began to play -- no point in being further reminded of the hardships of a long-distance relationship. It's a difficult song to hear, even now.  It's still too close to home.

Fewer things more painful than being unable to spend time with someone you love.