Wake up, it's a sunny day!
Wake up, it's a sunny day!
Put on your shoes and get up
And run free with me
And feel the rush of the wind.

I've had this pinned to my calendar for the past few months, and I'll be carrying a copy of it in my pocket for inspiration when I run my first marathon this Saturday.

Because I don't think I could run that far with Rainey in my pocket.

10. I ran away and joined the circus.

9. Sending Rainey to kindergarten really did kill me.

8. Lilla.

7. Rainey adopted a new kitten, Bud, and his cuteness and claws have rendered me completely useless.

6. I'm running for President, too!

5. I fainted when Rainey lost her first tooth, hit my head, and have been in a coma ever since.

4. LILLA. (In case you didn't hear me the first time.)

3. Gas prices.

2. I've taken up needlepoint instead.

1. Rainey is on to me. She's changed all my logins and passwords because I've mentioned her bathroom habits on this Web site more times than she's comfortable with.

Okay, I have no valid excuse, but quite a few people have contacted me in recent weeks, asking me if I am okay (Thanks, I'm alive!) and to please start writing again. This is terribly encouraging because I thought my mom was the only one who read this Web site.

To be honest, despite many highlights like learning to read and ride a bike, pierced ears, and losing teeth, much of the past two years has been a blur of demands, duties, and trying hard just to hold it all together. I would've turned in my resignation a long time ago if I could've found someone to accept it. But I didn't, and I reckon I won't because this tiny, charming and chaotic piece of the world needs me. But it needs me to live and love from that place where my heart is good and whole and free. I admit I haven't been there in a while, but writing will help me find my way back.

I make no guarantees, though. I hear the circus is in town.