I've been a while in Truth or Consequences, and a bit in Elephant Butte. I've been leaving my traveling friends to their adventures, and barely noting them on Facebook. Tales of the Rubbertramp Rendezvous (RTR) crowds leave my cuticles ragged. The closest I'm getting to vagabond shoes is walking into the yard with slippers on.
That's all okay with me. Okay with you? In the ebb and flow, wax and wane, here and there, and in and out, I'm all those things. It's not ennui, it's just the counterswing of the pendulum.
Today, I'm sharing space with four dogs, a cat, and a bird. I'm second in command, Janice's lieutenant; the two newest dogs have thrown off the dynamic, and everyone is jockeying for position. Marking, growling, biting, and fighting for food are everyday occurrences, but enough about my girlfriend.
I made a coffee date with someone I've met several times in passing. She seems interesting, and worth getting to know. When I arrived, she exhibited what I've begun to call in the retelling frank disappointment. "You came alone! I miss JANICE." It was such an honest expression of dismay that I couldn't be mad or even hurt. To be fair, she rallied well enough to have coffee and conversation, and even invited me to see her charming home.
Which reminds me of meeting another solo traveler. After we had chatted for a while, she paused for a long time, and then said, I thought you'd be funnier.
I tell you those stories to explain that I don't register with everyone. When I was younger, longing to make impressions, it bothered me, but in the ripeness of my life it feels like a blessing. Janice says I have a cloaking device. I don't trigger anyone's need to challenge; it's a way to live quietly and enjoy my coffee while it's hot.
15 comments:
You missed Out and About.
Huh! I thought you'd be funnier?
Maybe just not on the phone test.
Haha!
Sounds like you're doing er right. Carry on. :O)
Bob
That's kind of funny. What outspoken people you meet! When we first met, I was impressed (not surprised) at how easy going you were and how easy to talk to. Big smile and soft voice. Hummm, makes me wonder what people think when they meet me. :)
Barbara, I felt the same about you. Easy to relate to, very personable, and generous with the hot coffee. :o)
Will do, Bob - thanks!
"... enjoy my coffee while it's hot." Brilliant.
I thought you'd be taller... but then again, we've never met :)
Ah the joy of eb and flow and the mixed bag of the honest. Sounds like lots of fun while all the kids learn to live together :-)
Funny. All the best in 2017, wishing you some sensational adventures.
Sounds like she had already judged you before she met you!
Maybe you do not talk a funny story, but you sure can write a funny story.!! I always get a laugh reading your posts, and looking at the great pictures you take. Keep the cloaking device on and enjoy your hot coffee, your fine.
Trainman
.....Trainman says it all except for: I love you. Many Happy Returns!! Once more around the park, driver. Hip, hip & tallyho!
Another cup, Kim?
I am taller, Mark.
Jodee, how lucky am I that people can tell me the truth?! Saves everyone time, and it's kinda refreshing in the same way falling into a cold lake is refreshing. :o)
Thank you, Contessa. All the best to you in 2017, too!
Mary, my tantalizing proximity to Janice promised more than I delivered, I guess! What can I do but laugh? And leave it to her to make the next coffee date.
Thanks, Trainman! A laugh shared is a laugh earned, or something similar.
This round's on me! Thanks, Mike - I love you, too. Happy New Year.
I relate. I'm much better via the written word than in person.
I find it a kinder medium, Al.
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