The KISS Principle

Tynley and I have embraced the very forward and changing movement of our life together often. Every time we face new, she’s by my side with a smile looking up at me speaking the words, “I approve if you do!” with her eyes. In favor of our quest for fresh experiences my father recently shared, “There can be so much ‘same’ in your life that it’s like you’re stuck in the mud and can’t get out when there is so much to enjoy in the world.” I couldn’t agree more.

With this in mind, today I write, not from a scene where the water meets the land or from a place where I’m checking off a bucket list item, but from a rural locale complete with guinea fowl, front porches, a gazebo, floral delectations around each corner, a sprouting fountain, freshly-grown vegetables and fruits, a swing intended for long, relaxed conversation, lattice, and bugs. Oh, and lots of bug spray. Hey, every creature has its place. There’s even a hen house! We’re not far from the sea and sand, so please don’t fret. The audacity of such a thought….

This sounds like a strange departure from Anna’s norm, you’re thinking, but Tynley and I have actually experienced this lifestyle before. We’re country girls at heart. While I feel pretty certain dogs are born with this inclination, rediscovering this joy myself brings remembered moments to smile about in a serene setting.

As Tynley splashes through the nearest puddle, proudly disperses guinea fowl repeatedly, gives a thorough sniffing to the perimeter of the woods wondering which feral kitty will delight in teasing her on this day, and switches up a back roll in the sand for a back roll in the grass, all with a giant smile, I remember that simplicity is just wonderful.

As day fades to evening, the chirps of male crickets and low moans of bullfrogs enjoying the warmth contribute to relaxedness at its finest. To complete the list, add a rocking chair, cold glass of lemonade, and fresh water bowl underfoot.

Today my message is short and sweet. Don’t sit for too long, but sometimes simplicity, whether in a new or old form, is the adventure.