As I mentioned in a previous post, this is my "hard time of year" and this week, well it's the worst. Once I make it through tomorrow, I should be in better shape.
I started reading the book, "Eat, Pray, Love" by Elizabeth Gilbert last week. If you haven't read it, run to your nearest library or bookstore and get it .. NOW! It is one of the most wonderful books I've ever read and even better, it is based on the true story of one woman's journey after a broken marriage at the age of 31.
One of the most wonderful things I've done for myself this past 1 1/2 weeks is to go out on my porch with Ranger and read this book for a little bit every afternoon. Ranger gets his fill of chasing squirrels and all the sniffing his nose can handle..and of course, his new favorite pasttime, digging.
I, originally, was looking to get lost in a book, when, in reality, I totally related to everything this woman has been through.... minus the year of travelling to Italy, India, and Indonesia, which I REALLY wish I could relate to.
It has been a very cathartic experience for me.
It was another afternoon of reading and as I finished the book, Ranger crawled up onto the deck, and laid down right by my lounge chair, all dirty from digging and chasing squirrels.
Here is where I usually laugh and tell him that he has a dirty mouth and reach for the towel I typically have with me for such an occassion.
This time, I didn't. I simply rolled off my lounge chair and buried my head into his neck as he put his paw around me. A few tears fell, but he didn't move, just breathed softly and let me snuggle until I was ready to come inside. Something about the smell of that fur and the sound of his breath is one of the most comforting things I know.
Thanks for listening.
