Walking Solo/Input Requested

I woke up with a headache this morning. I don't get them often but this one almost made me miss mass. I hustled at the last moment because I knew that staying home would just make me feel worse. As I peeked out the window my heart ached almost as much as my head - nothing quite as dismal as a downpour and lumps of dirty, nearly melted snow. Have I totally depressed you yet?

Don't worry, things got better. It was good that I didn't remain home and wallow. Mass is always good for me and being among people at mass even better, for the most part. Fr. Petosa was an inspiration, as always when he serves mass - a good homily never hurts. A knowing eye from my bff, Betsy, (can't hide a damn thing from her) and hugs from my pretend grand-kids were greatly appreciated, as well. Betsy and I sipped our Sunday cup of java following mass - I treasure our time together more than she'll ever know, but....I still had that nagging headache.

Scout was waiting for me in her trusting, loyal way and I took her for the walk I'd promised her prior to my departure. It would take more than heavy, cold rain for me to break my word - she is so good for me, as you all have learned. The air felt good and fresh as I breathed in the sweet aroma of pine and cedar and all things outdoors. I started thinking as we walked. If it weren't for her I'd be indoors, feeling blue, and nursing a throbbing cranium.

A kernel of an idea began to form. I reflected on the many positive responses I got from my recent blog about my walk with Scout in the snow. I was almost embarrassed to write about it for fear I'd come off sounding like an aging widow with all the pathetic cliches, but I heard from all sorts of people. Maybe they were just happy that I wasn't moping about my grief-speckled existence. As I wrote that piece I was reflecting on the "little old ladies" I pass in the early morning, walking their dogs and those that I've met at the dog beach hovering over their beloved pooches. Part of me watched these scenes separating myself with distinction: "Well, I'm not THAT old", or "I actually HAVE a life"...etc, etc. But the fact is those women are engaging in life. They aren't sitting at home on the sofa watching reruns of "Murder She Wrote" (well not all the time anyway), they are out WALKING and LIVING and well....LOVING. Those are good and healthy activities. They would probably read a blog about that. It was then that I realized my headache was gone.

So folks, I'm thinking about writing a new blog. Not instead of this one, but adjacent to it. I'd keep it separate because, let's face it, not everyone is a dog person, or if they are their lives might be so full that their animal actually knows that s/he is really a dog...you know, not a....person. Ok, I said it. I'm thinking that this blog would appeal to a special sort of individual and who knows, I might even generate advertising from it. I must thank my friend and mentor, Nathalie of Nathalies Notes, who constantly inspires me. She writes a blog about "writing in the margins" of her life as a wife, mother, and professional writer. She has her ups and downs along this bumpy road of life and inspires herself every day to seek a new angle. So, that's what I must do - inspire myself. It's no one else's job but mine. 

I'm stealing a quote from my wise, oldest daughter (to distinguish from my wise, youngest one) who tweeted today, "What other creature lives this life all the while railing against it...?" I don't know it's origin but could easily write a whole post on it alone. So I'm not asking your opinion on the idea of the blog, because it's my responsibility to try and fulfill my life the best I can in the most meaningful ways I can. And while some well intentioned (joking to a degree...and I took them that way) people commented how "maybe I need a grandchild", I realize that while that could be nice - it's not up to me (thank God). My little Scout is a big part of my life right now and I think this will be fun. What I want to know is - what shall I name it?

Let me know your thoughts: Some of my quick ideas are "Scout's Travels" "Adventure's With Scout", "Rescued" (as in me, not her), "Puppy Love", "Apu's Gift", "Scout: Cock-eye ears and a lick in the eye", "Exploring with Scout" & "My Gal Scout".  Well that's all I have time for right now because said mutt is letting me know she's hungry and bored. I'm open for original ideas as well so feel free to brain storm. I also have some ideas to uplift my "Walking Solo" - more later. 

Bath time after the down pour

It's all about engaging in life, living, and loving - moving forward. We each have to find those things that lift us up and keep our head and hearts in the game. Trying to rail a little less and explore the potential.

 

".....I was far too old and too big for such childish things, and the sooner I learned to hold in, the better off eveybody would be. I soon forgot...." Scout from "To Kill a Mockingbird."

Comments

[Belle & Tinker]

Arf arf arf...great idea!!

[Patti's Grace Notes]

Thanks....I'm trying not to wallow. I don't let myself go too long - thanks Doc! Jim....not bad, I kind of like the lick and a prayer. Wanted something that might read on the cyber "doggie blog" radar. Still thinking....thanks for ideas.

[Jim]

Hmmm...Scout Leads the Way? With a Lick and a Prayer? Sorry...getting corny. I'm sure whatever you choose will be good :)

[Pat-E]

Patti:Don't wallow in.....!You have so much to offer the world! Pets offer unconditional love,but so do some good "friends!Now is the time "YOUNG LADY"--to enjoy life--,Scout,and all kinds of new friendships,and relationships! Remember in a "twinkle of an eye"--life goes.....! Dr's orders!...Blessings,Ms.Pat-E