In which I wax philosophical and come to the same conclusion as fortune cookies everywhere

You know, it's odd. Sometimes very basic things about life suddenly surprise me, and I mean that in a Successories poster type of way. I learn these life lessons (did you know, for example, that life is what you make of it?), wonder why nobody ever told me before, then realize that, actually, everybody told me, and that I had to learn it for myself. <--- That is also a life lesson. So the next time you see a cliche printed next to a photo of a soaring eagle, you might try taking it to heart. It's ok, I swear. And why would an eagle lie?

Anyway, this kinda lame thing happened. Since I am young, I am still under the impression that "that won't happen to me!", "that" of course signifying "anything bad, ever." I have to remain pretty esoteric here, but I will say that a big chunk of my history recently dissolved into thin air. As that one dude (ok, Shakespeare) once said: "These violent delights have violent ends." Yeah, no joke. But as that other dude (ok, Rilke) once said, "Oh disobedient world, full of refusal. And yet it breathes the space in which the stars revolve." Or, if you prefer: "When life gives you lemons, make lemonade." Hey, they may be onto something here! Because the same world that gives us loss also gives us contellations, the ability to make cheese, new leather boots (oh, yeah!) and, like, one gazillion wonderful people that I haven't even met yet. Cheese, boots, friends, stars. And lemonade. Bring it on, let's go.

On my windowsill, one of the previous occupants of this room wrote, "Yes, you can." I find this oddly touching and inspirational. It's just a dumb phrase, scrawled in pencil, but I look at it often, because it's good to be reminded. So when I clumsily post the equivalent of, "Life good! Life good! Life good!" it is a reminder to me and to you. Because if I need to hear it, then surely you do too, sometimes. So, internet: LIFE GOOD. And, also: yes, you can. So there! Now no one can say they were never told.

And now, for your enjoyment, here are some photos.

We pitied the person who had to answer the phone at this insurance agency.

Why, this is a portable hood! I call it "Porta-hood." I wish to be buried in it.

I keep my positive outlook by eating chocolate tarts and cider for lunch.

How I spent my Halloween!