tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-326580542012-01-25T17:20:31.061-08:00frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.comBlogger4371100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-66574891058392067192011-12-31T15:05:00.000-08:002011-12-31T15:14:44.590-08:00

Por fin...el ultima dia de 2011!What a year! What stands out to me right now is the number of shooting stars I've seen this year. Despite the fact that I'm not exactly superstitious, I have wished on a few of them. Those nearly secret whispers that rise from a deep place within. I know if you read my blog, you know exactly what I mean.For the record, one of them has already come true. I'm hoping

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-82618695182447105082011-12-25T21:18:00.001-08:002011-12-25T21:34:37.146-08:00

I've had a million thoughts run through my head today, but I will try to follow one of the important rules of blogging and stick with just one of those thoughts. It's been a most interesting Christmas for me. Another first...and I hope it's just the beginning of the next stage in my never-a-dull-moment life.It's no secret that I tend to live life with the idea that you make decisions for the day

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-50218622760041174112011-12-24T11:18:00.000-08:002011-12-24T11:25:13.239-08:00

As I write this, a gorgeous man with a pair of basketball shorts, backwards Yankees cap, and a white t-shirt wrapped around his nose and mouth is cleaning my ceiling fan. This is all because I woke yesterday morning with a slight cough.I endured a day of a million questions about my health and well-being. Did I feel any phlegm? Was the sensation in my throat one of pain or scratchiness? Did I

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-65447347420862534412011-12-19T20:09:00.000-08:002011-12-19T20:20:38.065-08:00

Sigh.My blog has been silent. My journal has far too many pages for this time in the year. My phone has been taking an extended rest. But my mind has been working over time. I feel much like the proverbial still waters. A single glance at my life cannot reveal the layers upon layers swirling deep within.If you know me, you know how much I like it.I've never felt this loved and comfortable in my

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-29206584241979265292011-12-05T17:39:00.000-08:002011-12-05T18:03:27.126-08:00

Last night, I found myself sitting in an emergency room with my love and his relative. We discovered that he had been taken to the hospital earlier in the day and immediately rushed over to check on him. Soon I was settled in among the friends and family--soaking in the Spanish and quietly honored by the way they attempted English with me.It wasn't long before some friends showed up. One guy

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-63120656733364068542011-11-27T21:11:00.000-08:002011-11-27T21:28:58.775-08:00

Little darling...the smiles returning to the faces...little darling...it seems like years since it's been here.I cannot believe that I'm quoting The Beatles since I find myself continuously clicking the dislike button every time they appear on Pandora. However, I do like this song, and it's more than appropriate for the way I feel right now.This has been one of those weekends that has left me

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-4388898889812811702011-11-14T15:19:00.000-08:002011-11-14T16:05:29.480-08:00

I just recently found out that one of my colleagues is facing a divorce. I ran into this person in the hall today, and the unmistakeable look of shock was firmly planted in the eyes. The vacuous stare of someone facing what is arguably one of the most painful experiences known to man.We chatted briefly. The exchange was simple. "Life throws you curve balls sometimes." I replied with, "Yes,

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-51172316248174474792011-11-10T15:20:00.000-08:002011-11-10T15:33:32.638-08:00

During the last week or so I've been dealing with some heavy, heavy feelings of jealousy. They hit me hard, and I struggled to suppress them. I talked. I let them fester. I really tried my best because every Christian instinct in me said these were bad, bad feelings.I've switched my sleeping habits lately and started waking at 3 a.m. This has always been my favorite time of day. No one is on the

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-44538807920475355252011-10-17T15:47:00.001-07:002011-10-17T15:49:36.988-07:00

I was standing on my porch tonight--waiting for the dogs to come back inside after their romp in the yard--and letting my thoughts wander. They went back a little more than a year ago and a text message I received from the crazy Spaniard."I HAVE RETURNED FROM SPAIN, BEAUTIFUL ANGEL!"Seriously, how can you think of that comment and not smile? He was proud of the magnet gift he brought back for me,

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-45142290445388846702011-10-16T14:21:00.000-07:002011-10-16T14:44:08.136-07:00

Last night I put on a new black wrap dress, my Franco Sarto pumps, lined my eyes in deep purple eye shadow, and let my blond hair curl wildly around my face. I needed to dress up and feel beautiful and dance. I needed to let house music ride through my veins and emerge as electricity igniting my hips and my feet.So I met up with a few friends at one of the local hotspots. I'm actually not much of

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-43677488907646606472011-10-08T07:35:00.001-07:002011-10-08T08:18:56.295-07:00

This past week was Homecoming Week at my high school. As someone who was intentionally removed from the events that make up high school memories, this week is entertaining for me. It is a week long competition between the different classes, and the students and teachers easily get involved in the festivities. As a class sponsor, I am in the thick of things.All week, my students commented on my

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-44619687225300015392011-10-02T17:19:00.000-07:002011-10-02T18:07:25.708-07:00

"You were a truth I would rather lose than to have never lain beside at all."I'm sure I've used this line before. It's one that just sticks in my head on a regular basis, and it is especially poignant for me tonight. But I think this line applies more to myself than anyone else I've ever met.I called some old, dear friends tonight after hearing about an important announcement in their lives. We

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-44124197845552540272011-09-19T18:11:00.001-07:002011-09-19T18:26:51.190-07:00

"It stung like a violent wind that our memories depend on a faulty camera in our minds."This line is from a song that never fails to make me cry. I asked my students to analyze this line today, and their responses surprised me. It seems to me that I would have been able to connect to this idea even at the tender age of 16.But then again, that's a memory dependent on a faulty camera in my

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-28968625630912235602011-09-17T17:43:00.000-07:002011-09-17T17:48:00.757-07:00

The next three weeks are already set up to be a whirlwind of activity, and I will be a very happy woman on the morning following homecoming.But you know what? I'm glowing right now. The happiness that swirls within me is very real...rushing through my veins. I've found my muse in the most unlikely of places. I'm relishing the connectedness I feel to myself.Speaking of muses, tomorrow I will be

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-10953624189409605862011-09-09T16:54:00.000-07:002011-09-09T17:12:13.058-07:00

It's Friday night. I'm sitting here in the midst of a very, very dirty house. I'm staring at my computer screen. I'm fighting a losing battle with all the words and ideas in my head. I'm supposed to be writing.Last month I accepted a part time position as a writer. So I've been writing. What I'm learning is that writing for someone else--on a schedule--is a challenge for someone who prefers to be

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-83140967379771488462011-09-03T18:52:00.000-07:002011-09-03T19:24:26.164-07:00

I called one of my dear friends early this afternoon and announced, "Every once and a while I have a moment that reminds me how different I am from everyone else." He laughed as I regaled him with the story of my first trip to the local Brazilian supermarket. It all started when I was in the local American supermarket and discovered they no longer carried my favorite Brazilian coffee. As I

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-60519144865678488112011-08-31T15:33:00.000-07:002011-08-31T15:36:21.607-07:00

Student X: ***says something unintelligible*** Me: Can you explain that? Student X: You're the teacher. Me: Yes, thanks for clarifying that. 10 minutes later while I am explaining something to the class... Me: ***rambling about something*** Student Y: Ms. Aren't you the teacher? Me: Yes, I believe X pointed that out to us earlier. Student Y: Just checking. I was trying to figure out why X

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-65807950386330438532011-08-28T06:11:00.000-07:002011-08-28T06:38:29.043-07:00

"Best fantasy football draft ever." Five years ago, the guys at the school where I used to work invited me to be part of their fantasy football league. I moved to southwest Florida the following year, but still made the drive back to the land of theme parks and orange groves to participate. Despite my waning interest in American football, I like the fantasy game...and the time with my boys. In

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-14679254102285511142011-08-21T18:25:00.001-07:002011-08-21T18:39:14.242-07:00

The school year is about to begin again, and I am anxiously awaiting the morning when I will meet my new students and embark upon the journey that will end with a trip to Portugal and Spain next June. I've been sorting through chaos. Preparing a classroom. Negotiating terms for a new part time writing job I've accepted. Sorting through dreams. Excavating some dark corners of my soul. I'll share

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-75929533381064394752011-08-02T06:18:00.000-07:002011-08-02T06:32:42.539-07:00

I have a confession.I am not a English teacher.I had this epiphany last week during a training I attended to prepare for the courses I will be teaching next year. The workshop was filled with real English teachers. The ones you remember from high school, with their favorite books and deep insights into the writer's meaning of punctuation marks and interpretations of sentence structures. They all

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-91831641397581200312011-07-18T17:25:00.000-07:002011-08-04T22:10:56.362-07:00

"The memories of me seem more like bad dreams. Just a series of blurs, like I never occurred."

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-88498871230758471272011-07-10T08:50:00.001-07:002011-07-11T14:18:16.781-07:00

My new friend in Barcelona has a habit of taking pictures of the "urban art" that can be found all over the city. The spirit of art is very much alive throughout the city, and I'm not sure if that's just a by-product of being in a large city or more reflective of the culture itself. Either way, if your eye is on the look-out, there is much to see.I took this picture in one of the Metro stations

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-41165641371305402732011-07-09T15:24:00.000-07:002011-07-09T15:34:24.026-07:00

I know this isn't a picture of Spain. It wasn't even taken in Spain. This is the airport in Germany where I spent 10 hours before flying to Barcelona.I'm a bit of an interesting traveler, and I tend to meet interesting people. (Just ask my students.) On my flight from Miami to Dusseldorf, I struck up a conversation with my seat mate. He's an Italian scientist on his way home to visit his family,

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-32087869869480922482011-07-08T07:35:00.001-07:002011-07-08T07:43:27.025-07:00

I found it interesting--coming from the "land of flowers"--the number of flowers around Tarragona. Everywhere I looked, there was some sort of plant life. Tall, shady trees. Scented flowers. Long, dangly plants. It's beautiful and romantic and sentimental.I'm not necessarily a big nature person, but it was impossible to ignore the feelings elicited by nature in the cities. I think the Spanish

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-2605462019393924272011-07-06T19:00:00.001-07:002011-07-06T19:10:33.029-07:00

I was fascinated by windows during my time in Spain, most likely because of a voyeuristic streak in me that wanted to gather as much information as possible about the interior lives of the people. Something about the nature of life that can be seen through windows intrigues me.This foto shows the window of a home that rests along the oldest wall built outside the city of Rome during the age of

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-89432481603167356762011-07-05T05:37:00.000-07:002011-07-05T05:49:48.478-07:00

Perhaps my favorite part of Spanish culture is the sense of humor. This stands prominently in a playground in Castellon (at the base of the hand sculpture), and my first reaction to it was, "Can you imagine the 'morality' groups in the States who would protest this?" There is just more freedom here for artistic expression and less analysis about how people will be offended or misinterpret that

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-89797275295945738572011-07-04T05:31:00.000-07:002011-07-04T05:39:47.674-07:00

Two things stand out to me about this picture from a Barcelona street. First, keeping plants on the balcony is a very Spanish habit. (My dear Spaniard told me this.) If a woman lives in the flat, chances are that plants will be on the balcony. Second, I was completely fascinated by the balconies because they were glimpses into the lives of people--filled with laundry, toys, political signs, and

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-35735511856112016072011-07-03T05:54:00.001-07:002011-07-03T05:58:41.469-07:00

Spain is filled with parks, and as I wandered the streets of Castellon de la Plana, my eye caught this tall, colorful sculpture. It is the center of a small play area for children, and the whimsy captured in the outstretched hands is remarkable. The place is filled with imagination, and this is one of the shots I took. It reminds me of the Michelangelo painting.

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-88889445359001193792011-07-02T09:54:00.000-07:002011-07-02T17:13:37.300-07:00

This sculpture sits outside the main church in Castellon de la Plana. The church is a Gothic style cathedral originally built in the 13th century. I don't know exactly what it was about this angel that captivated me, but she did.

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-22456936071153281382011-06-20T04:16:00.000-07:002011-06-20T04:22:50.215-07:00

Last night ended up being magical in a new way. Brasilian buffet. Fast Five (set in Brasil). Gifts. Pictures. Lots of embraces. I'm definitely on the cusp of something new. Never before have I allowed myself to be this vulnerable. I think someone else is struggling with the same. When I told him how much I will miss him, his reply was, "You're coming back." I said, "Of course, I could never leave

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-71321724592062296252011-06-19T08:14:00.000-07:002011-06-19T08:23:14.239-07:00

I hate waiting.A few weekends ago, my dear South American snapped at me because I was running about 5 minutes late to meet him. What all my friends found funny was that the American was late. I may be, perhaps, the only American on the planet who is consistently late for everything...except work.There's a reason for this. Reread the first sentence.I have worked diligently to be as prepared as

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-42354244638088537732011-06-18T12:05:00.000-07:002011-06-18T12:52:15.711-07:00

I've been busily preparing for my upcoming trip to Spain. In doing so, I have been frantically working on a project for work, completing homework assignments, and packing. In what has been uncharacteristic behavior for me, I am almost finished with a little time to spare.I just finished updating the playlist on my iPod shuffle, and I chuckled as I searched for just the right songs to accompany me

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-33922087577850504482011-06-06T14:27:00.000-07:002011-06-06T14:43:18.890-07:00

Can I just tell you that I had the most amazing weekend I've had in ages? There. It was fantastic.I really want to share all the beautiful details here, but I'm sensing the need to be a bit more private about the current situation. Let's just say that I thoroughly loved walking hand-in-hand, the feel of a hand on my back, laughing for hours, singing in Portuguese and Spanish, speaking in another

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-75999832061331057342011-06-01T14:11:00.001-07:002011-06-01T14:12:55.881-07:00

I'm a bit giddy today.Brasilian text kisses.Jokes with one of my dearest friends.Compliments from co-workers.Decent looking hair.Lots of laughter.I like this feeling.

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-64770230959567908112011-05-30T17:36:00.001-07:002011-05-30T17:49:00.936-07:00

I posted something yesterday. However, as I've thought about the circumstances that lead me to write that post, I felt that I needed to delete it. It just didn't convey the message that I was trying to express.Let's just say that something happened this weekend that essentially empowered me and made me realize just how far I've come in my life. And how far I have yet to go.What I've discovered is

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-67266027442081603422011-05-14T12:05:00.000-07:002011-05-14T13:05:16.300-07:00

The end of the school year is always a whirlwind of activity, and it doesn't help that I very happily take on extra tasks. Like prom. And freelance writing. And learning new languages. Fortunately, I've found a method that seems to work well for me: work on one task...take a break...work on another task...take a break.You get the idea.It seems to keep me sufficiently occupied and eliminates some

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-46052999492655297322011-05-10T15:03:00.001-07:002011-05-10T15:23:57.402-07:00

Okay, so while I make you wait for the poetry that I am working on tonight, I thought I'd share what I scribbled a few weeks ago while watching a soccer game. I said that I wasn't going to share these two poems, but we all know that I'd show them anyway to the three of you who read this.My sweaty and shirtless South American.I can hear the sound of your voice--palavras em Portugues--over the din

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-68172783559894649762011-05-10T14:58:00.000-07:002011-05-10T14:59:19.129-07:00

I scribbled some new lines of poetry in my notebook.I'm writing tonight.I think.

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-38686085366520414442011-05-01T05:31:00.000-07:002011-05-01T05:53:08.137-07:00

I'm happily saying good-bye to April. My head is still pounding and my stomach is still churning from the emotional roller coaster this month has brought to my life. Right now, I'd be willing to invest my life's savings in emotional Dramamine, confident that I could make my fortune and be able to retire on a beach in South America before my passport tells me I'm forty years old.I went to lunch

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-78591066417331256452011-04-25T16:17:00.001-07:002011-05-05T15:32:51.400-07:00

Last night I sent a text to a friend telling him that I was ready to re-invent myself. This skin I'm currently wearing is starting to sag and feels a bit uncomfortable.***If I could sculpt you from the clay of the Earth,shape the curves of your limbswith the palms of my hands...I'd cast your eyesblue and clearas the still waters of the Caribbeanon a summer daythat see into the depths of life and

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-75159535764888516032011-04-17T16:56:00.000-07:002011-04-17T17:05:30.762-07:00

Forgive me.I'm going to do some thinking here. Some sorting. Some processing through the process of writing this blog.The last week and a half has been a whirlwind for me. Thoughts and emotions have swirled in my head. I'm sitting here still letting them wander around my conscience and hoping they will eventually find a place to rest.A few days ago I had a conversation with my dear Lawrence who

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-52077914170215055852011-04-09T06:49:00.000-07:002011-04-09T07:01:17.429-07:00

Last Friday, I participated again in the Collaborative Arts Experiment in Fort Myers. This year, the theme was based around community, beauty, and joy. My group decided to create a piece that reflected a universe vs. Earth perspective, and I wrote two poems (in one week) that were read at the beginning and end of the work.The first is simply my reflection of the universe and the wonder I feel

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-89648227336182830152011-04-03T15:33:00.000-07:002011-04-03T15:34:29.577-07:00

I went running this morning.My iPod stayed in the pocket of my running belt.It was beautiful.

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-73688432980091507022011-03-26T07:56:00.000-07:002011-03-26T08:56:12.114-07:00

My Spaniard friend called earlier in the week wanting to know if I still wanted to go to St. Augustine. One, I have been in love with that city since my fifth grade teacher first showed me a Flamenco dancer doll he picked up in Spain and waxed poetic about the first Spanish settlement in the U.S. Second, I really wanted to say that I saw the city with an actual Spaniard.We loaded up my car with

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-78040800607097716332011-03-20T10:35:00.000-07:002011-03-20T10:43:11.607-07:00

Why are you so petrified of silence?Here can you handle this?Did you think about your bills, your ex, your deadlines?Or when you think you're gonna die?Or did you long for the next distraction?Sometimes I like to talk.Sometimes I like to listen.Sometimes I like the distraction of music.Sometimes I crave silence.I'm acutely aware of the messages that silence brings us. I think that we learn more

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-72664562276779548852011-03-19T06:02:00.000-07:002011-03-19T07:41:04.351-07:00

I showed up work yesterday with my curly, unwashed hair pulled on top of my head in a wild ponytail sticking out all over my head, an over-sized t-shirt, black jeans, and the unmistakable look of a the six hours of sleep I'd had in the last two days hanging in the shadows around my eyes. Everyone who looked at me smiled politely. I was just happy to be standing upright.It's no secret that I live

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-22729053509911726852011-03-12T09:46:00.001-08:002011-03-13T14:04:20.519-07:00

I'm currently obsessed with the Modest Mouse lyric "when time and life shook hands and said good-bye." The imagery in that line--and in that song as he describes the ocean meeting the sky and the earth folding in on itself--has been stuck in my head since I first heard Mark Kozelec sing it on his MM tribute album, which happens to be one of my all-time favorites.I cannot listen to this song

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-90982565220795461922011-02-25T16:18:00.001-08:002011-02-25T16:31:52.848-08:00

One of the best parts of aging is perspective. I was thinking yesterday about how sometimes--many times--doing the right thing is difficult and painful. This is even true when trying to do the right thing for yourself.Like letting go.This week, though, has been a bit of a struggle for me. A younger version of me would have caved to the sinking feelings and succumbed to the internal message that

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-2150397702042355412011-02-21T19:30:00.000-08:002011-02-21T19:42:39.918-08:00

Recently, a friend of mine and I had an interesting conversation over coffee. It started with me asking how much a man can tell about a woman from kissing her and ended with a much more in-depth discussion about some of the intricacies of male/female relationships."I just don't understand men who want to date women in their 20's. They are too busy trying to fit into someone else's idea about how

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-47365265175764727922011-02-10T16:53:00.000-08:002011-02-10T17:04:21.157-08:00

I really didn't think it was possible to top last year's birthday which I spent watching my new hot water heater being installed in great anticipation of a hot shower.But I think it happened.The day was filled with lots of text messages, phone calls, Facebook posts in multiple languages, songs from my students, and a vocabulary skit designed around my special day. That in itself made for a

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-812705627889411482011-02-08T17:29:00.001-08:002011-02-08T17:35:33.304-08:00

The laughter is silencedand the clothes hung outon the drying rackfor all the neighbors to see from the porchhave been packed away.And I cried for you.The dishes lined along the sinkhave been washed and driedand put back into their dark homein the cupboardwhere they wait for their single use.And I cried for you.The nights are quietand the Dominoes and cardsare no longer spread outon the dining

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-34400001389087860812011-02-05T07:32:00.001-08:002011-02-05T08:00:18.966-08:00

I've been chatting with my brother this morning. He has a new girlfriend now, and this seems to be a bright spot for him since his divorce. This sort of conversation is the perfect breeding ground for a reflection on the past, and we've already covered the ideas of life paths and consequences.This perfectly coincided with a conversation I had with Nadia yesterday in which she reminded me that we

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-63947563957410948552011-02-04T19:36:00.000-08:002011-02-04T20:09:34.072-08:00

I have a taped interview my neighbor did with me when I was thirteen. In it she asks about my hobbies, and I respond with a scripted sounding list of activities that included writing music and playing with my brother and sister.She then asks me, "What about talking on the phone."Apparently, I've been a talker for a long time.I went to South American Soccer Night this week and caught up with my

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-45161178684004144182011-01-30T15:57:00.000-08:002011-01-30T16:50:47.405-08:00

I like boys. I understand them. A lot of this has to do with the fact that I come from a family with a lot of boys. They just make sense to me.Last weekend I met the most beautiful, intelligent pre-teen girl. Our initial interaction involved me telling her in Portuguese how much I liked her alternating pink and blue nail polish. She's very shy, and I noticed that she tends to sit back and take in

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-38670317139652399982011-01-29T16:44:00.000-08:002011-01-29T16:55:39.489-08:00

The Brazilian's father told him that I was his partner in crime. "She's up for anything," he said. I smiled at the thought of that comment.Although we spent the weekend together, being surrounded by the family didn't give up much time alone together. We stole a moment at the outlets last Saturday and walked arm in arm to Gap. He asked why I wasn't buying anything, and I explained that nothing

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-73849985768699037522011-01-27T15:54:00.000-08:002011-01-27T16:16:42.561-08:00

I like certainty. I crave truth. I thrive on authenticity. I think that's one of the reasons I like kids so much. They have a way of carving right through the b.s. and digging in to the heart of the matter.As we sat at Dunkin Donuts this weekend, the English-speaking 8-year-old asked me, "What's your name again?" The Brazilian looked across the table from her and responded, "Every time you see

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-13273595843600507892011-01-25T14:34:00.001-08:002011-01-25T14:46:57.217-08:00

Whenever I meet foreigners, they always tell me that I am unlike other Americans. This used to confuse me a bit because, as far as I'm concerned, I'm just me. I've grown accustomed, though, to the statement, "You're different."This weekend I found out just how much that statement applies to me.The South Americans and I stopped at a Dunkin Donuts for a brunch Saturday morning, and after

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-90590456098162677292011-01-24T14:35:00.000-08:002011-01-24T14:47:05.261-08:00

I'm finally home and have a million things to do tonight that I normally would have finished Friday night or during the weekend. There are no complaints here, though, because my weekend was as magical as I expected it would be.On Saturday morning we loaded up the car with my favorite South American family and started our trek to Orlando. It was a slightly rocky start because I was afraid to

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-72902044233138095842011-01-21T14:34:00.000-08:002011-01-21T14:40:06.809-08:00

Tonight's the big night before the big weekend, and there's just one thing on my mind.What am I going to wear?I'm meeting the family tomorrow and spending the weekend with them in Orlando. My favorite South American told me that he will be in my capable hands and that he trusts me to guide his family through our weekend excursion."You have the command this weekend, but on Monday I get it back."He

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-12281232720565688622011-01-20T16:17:00.000-08:002011-01-20T16:37:06.046-08:00

As I've had the time, I've been reading an amazing book by Brene Brown. Brown is a shame researcher in Houston, and her book, I Thought It Was Just Me, but It Isn't, has been life changing for me. In the book, she shares some of her research on shame and vulnerability, and the most profound piece of information I've uncovered is that we all feel shame, and we're all deeply afraid of it.Like I

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-24413659658619901792011-01-15T19:10:00.001-08:002011-01-16T15:07:11.981-08:00

It's 10:00. My race clothes are laying across the top of the dog crate. I've already consumed my all-natural sleep aid. The alarm is set for 4:45 in the morning. I should be sleeping, but my mind is spinning at an unnatural rate.Remember this poem?The subject of that poem married just a few weeks ago, and I just finished looking through his wedding photos. It's a strange feeling. Not one of loss.

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-30601433374667172702011-01-15T03:10:00.000-08:002011-01-15T03:23:13.747-08:00

I've been practicing my Portuguese like a madwoman lately. Now I can say hello, ask how you're doing, and tell you that it's a pleasure to meet you. If you're lucky, I may throw in a few colors or numbers or point out that I have blond hair.The Brazilian says, "Just don't pronounce it like Spanish. Say tudo.""Tudo.""Say 'd' like in your brother's name or my sister's name.""D.""Say 'tudo'.""Tudo."

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-51140075818646715982011-01-13T14:01:00.001-08:002011-01-13T16:50:13.337-08:00

Today didn't turn out quite like I expected. I wasn't prepared for the blasting cold that greeted me when I let the dogs out this morning. I certainly wasn't prepared for my car to refuse to start this morning.But there I was at 5:30 this morning. 30 degrees. In the dark. Behind the wheel of a car whose engine attempted, but never fully woke up.I have a back up plan. Since I live alone, I have

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-42492793750408288272011-01-09T08:10:00.000-08:002011-01-09T09:25:21.460-08:00

I went to a certain South American's house last week to watch some movies he rented. After a quick snack of dulce de leche ice cream and Brazilian cake, we settled in to watch Going the Distance.This was the first I got a sneak peek at his quirky sense of humor. You must read this with the implied sarcasm.SA: I don't know if you'll like the other movie I rented. It's a porno.ME: Really? That's my

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-72571901040900632622011-01-02T09:06:00.001-08:002011-01-02T09:31:57.182-08:00

A dear friend confessed to me last night that he had lost his muchness and found it again. I confessed the same and even admitted the ridiculous series of events that recently sapped my own muchness.That little confession seemed to do wonders.It's so easy to fall out of step with myself. In fact, I do it quite naturally. Growing up in a Christian home, I took to heart the instructions to love my

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-74168799567865632252010-12-31T07:29:00.001-08:002010-12-31T08:16:18.304-08:00

It's New Year's Eve, and I usually spend this day reflecting on the year before and the lessons I've learned. This might be a nice reprieve, because this week I've been reflecting on too much.I woke up Monday morning as a neurotic mess, analyzing and over-thinking every minute detail of my dating life. I spent the day texting with friends and sitting in front of my computer reading article after

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-36317813481454336982010-12-26T11:13:00.000-08:002010-12-26T11:45:08.827-08:00

I received a most delightful invitation to spend Christmas Eve at a Brazilian dinner party. Of course, I accepted, and arrived with my favorite South American at my side and a new pair of earrings from him on my ears. In typical South American fashion, I was greeted by these strangers with dois beijos and smiles as if I was a long time member of the family.The Portuguese flew around the room with

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-67766878743844028092010-12-23T17:37:00.000-08:002010-12-23T18:11:03.015-08:00

I have a text message saved in my phone that reads, "You have no rules." When I first read it, I was a bit offended because I have lived much of my life attempting to follow rules (and my therapists have no doubt been pleased by the amount of money they've made off the resulting messes I made in the attempts).I spend a lot of time debating what I write here. There's a fine line between blogging

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-38003021873711703082010-12-21T20:09:00.000-08:002010-12-21T20:56:05.147-08:00

Seven months ago, I listened to a live band cover a Pearl Jam song, learned the histories of Brasil and the World Cup, and had some of my poems verbally translated into Portuguese while resting in the sand along the Gulf. It was a delightful evening, and my closest friends will tell you I was smitten from the moment that South American smiled at me under the moonlight. I'd argue that it was the

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-75250812701510490002010-12-08T14:56:00.000-08:002010-12-08T15:30:10.718-08:00

Gather around kiddos, I'm going to teach today.It's time that we discuss appropriate behavior and conversation for a first date. That is, of course, if your plan is to earn a second date. This is fairly simple, and I'm sure that everyone will be able to master this.1. Please refrain from "trying a new look" on a first date. Showing up with baggy jeans, a large gold cross on a Mr.-T style chain,

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-82679573461029989542010-12-02T17:03:00.000-08:002010-12-02T17:20:54.867-08:00

No Tengo Nunca Disgusto Con La NocheAnoche, tuve sueno,pero no pude dormirporque las estrellas en el cielollamaban en la noche.Me levanté lentamente.Tuvo que vercon la cancion de la luna.Nosotros cantamos juntos.Ella tuvo razon,como siempre.Que tendria suerte.***TRANSLATION***I Never Disagree With the NightLast night I was tired,but I could not sleepbecause the stars in the skycalled me in the

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-21758077941886242482010-11-18T15:51:00.000-08:002010-11-18T17:54:21.063-08:00

I woke up this morning with that cat-that-ate-the-canary smile pastered across my face. Thoughts of a certain South American with jet black hair and skin the color of a caramel macchiato ran rampant through my mind.And I kinda liked it.I drove to work this morning imagining the places where I want to travel with him, meeting his friends and family, and watching the morning sun light his face

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-75252497146968024932010-11-15T14:39:00.000-08:002010-11-15T14:47:05.932-08:00

I've written so little lately that I fear I can no longer call myself even a pseudo-writer. Life has been busy around these parts, even if my life consists only of myself and my two dogs and the occasional foreigner who crosses my path.So many things have been running around in my head lately, though, and one of them has been the roadblock to writing that seems to linger around me. I had a

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-30315128200897146782010-10-24T10:26:00.000-07:002010-10-24T10:51:16.511-07:00

Making a conscience decision to become temporarily more introverted has lead me to some interesting discoveries about myself. For one thing, I have difficulty accepting the instinctual knowledge I have of people. It's partly due to the fact that I don't like believing anything negative about another person. However, it's mostly due to the fact that I cringe at the thought of anyone calling me a

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-82030474376855711142010-10-22T18:23:00.000-07:002010-10-22T18:32:03.689-07:00

It's Friday night, and I'm still sitting here in Starbucks after submitting my latest assignment for the graduate course I'm currently taking. The weight of the week is settling in my eyelids, and I have a race in the morning, but I'm not quite ready to go back home and climb into bed. This is one of those moments when I wish the rest of the world operated on my schedule, but it doesn't, so I

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-19456733354779470422010-10-05T17:18:00.000-07:002010-10-05T17:34:03.502-07:00

A few months ago, I asked a friend which three famous people from history he would like to meet--you know, in the event that we discover black holes really are portals for time travel. One of the people he mentioned was the South American poet, Pablo Neruda, because he wanted to ask him how he was able to say "te amo" so easily. The conversation that ensued about the ease of which those words

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-61154097979722625172010-09-27T16:10:00.000-07:002010-09-27T16:16:23.804-07:00

Here are the photos I contributed to yesterday's merriment in arts.This one represents fire. It is a shot of a theater in Charleston, SC.This is the water at one of my favorite local beaches: Barefoot Beach.This is the trunk of a palm tree at the Naples Botanical Gardens.This is the misty air rolling through the Andes at Machu Picchu in Peru.

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-51848100146726841452010-09-27T15:52:00.000-07:002010-09-27T16:10:01.123-07:00

If you saw the stacks of week old dirty dishes with fish residue sitting in the sink or the menagerie of student papers to be graded, fast food bags, and clothes I stripped off as I walked in the door last week, you might want to join my grandmother's club and ask me what I was thinking yesterday.Yeah...I'm behind. So what?Yesterday, my dear friend Katelyn hosted her second bi-annual

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-52483858255913333182010-09-25T09:03:00.000-07:002010-09-25T09:15:39.385-07:00

For the last month or so I've been going through a transformation that has resulted in a few changes in my life. For one thing, I've made it a point to go to the beach once a week to just sit alone for an hour. I've also started journaling--old-school style--again and have filled numerous pages with thoughts both random and not so random. The whole point of this is to get in touch with the core

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-24762865075292628182010-09-08T15:36:00.000-07:002010-09-08T16:04:33.777-07:00

I always carry one of my Moleskin writing books with me wherever I go. Since I have several, I tend to just grab whichever is nearest to me. This morning I took the black book I carried with me to Peru. The poems scribbled there made me cry, and I thought I'd share a few of them here.Happy AnniversaryTen years agotodayI said, "I do."Two words.A promisethat only young foolsthink they can keep for

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-56933331983545987292010-09-05T14:02:00.000-07:002010-09-05T14:12:13.241-07:00

Well, now. The school year has been back in full swing for two weeks now, and we've all survived to enjoy our first long weekend. Everyone keeps asking about how it feels to be back at work and wonders about the behavior of my students. I switched to a different department this year, and so far I am happy with it. I'll spare the details because they aren't interesting at all to anyone who doesn't

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-66521296971980203072010-08-18T17:20:00.000-07:002010-08-18T17:36:42.654-07:00

I suppose it's finally time to admit that summer is over. After all, I've been back in the trenches of work for a week now. Late leisurely mornings, fridge raiding, and untimed bathroom breaks are well behind me. Before me are lesson plans, essay scoring, and more than a few "This is boring!"s. Madre de Dios, the dawn of a new school year is fabulous!Hence, the prose.I'm feeling a bit guilty,

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-44881490440005968562010-08-09T12:10:00.000-07:002010-08-09T19:14:57.713-07:00

Prepared we were notto cross Captain Jack's pathlate in the summer of ten,with the sun bearing downas we wandered the townwhere the Koreshans once lived.But he nodded. We smiledand went on our way,rolling it all in our heads.We giggled and talkedand suddenly stoppedto turn back and run after him.You see love for a pirate and sailing the seasrest deep in a gypsy girl's soul,where she dreams of the

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-75234098113933997242010-07-13T18:00:00.000-07:002010-07-14T05:32:48.452-07:00

I am a work of art.Que linda!Hair that curls wildly in misty ocean air.Azure eyes the color of the sky in summer.Hips that cast slithering shadows in the moonlight.I am an impossible cause.Que unica!A restless spirit that longs to roam.A wish on a star falling from the moonless sky.In the magical place where hope and imagination collide.

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-3355108486434800492010-07-12T18:54:00.001-07:002010-07-12T19:11:12.806-07:00

I want to slip into my skin...stitch it upfeel it pressed against my bonesand stretched across my ligaments.Where I can explore and examine...what it knowswhat it holds withinmemories of meand the stories that it's told.It seems that I've forgottenthe wishes and feelingsthat once stirredbeneath my fleshand danced within my dreams.Can I find them again...if I walk around in my skinstretched across

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-2606613953615494852010-07-06T16:52:00.000-07:002010-07-06T17:07:11.629-07:00

Now that I'm officially home and feeling the exhaustion of the last two weeks seep out of my veins and into the corners of my eyes, I'm thinking about my trip to Peru. Peru is a phenomenal place, and the people there are wonderful. It's hard to put the experience into just a few words, but I figured I would try with a top ten list. So here goes (in no particular order)...10. The look on the

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-17885352783696391302010-06-22T09:17:00.000-07:002010-06-25T07:41:51.379-07:00

Dejé mi diccionarioen mi carroen los estados unidos.Y ahora no recuerdocomo decir "leave"en espanol.Yo se esta palabra.Te prometo.Yo se la.Pero no la recuerdoahoracuando necisito la usar.***translation***I left my dictionary.in my carin the United States.And now I cannot rememberhow to say "leave"in Spanish.I know the word.I promise you.I know it.But I cannot remember itnowwhen I need to use it.

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-86280128623270160942010-06-20T18:53:00.000-07:002010-06-21T05:24:40.339-07:00

Do you seethe way the wrinklescrease the cornersof my mouth?Did you catchthe edges raiseinto an imperfect,crescent--flesh colored?Can you find thelight that sparklesand twinkles as itdances in my eyes?I swallowed a secret.It's mine.I'd like to share it with you,but I can't.I swallowed a secret.It's mine.

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-21577444105263896052010-06-16T19:34:00.000-07:002010-06-16T20:33:53.303-07:00

I wantto be freeof mistrust that shackles the heartand judgments that bind the soul.I wantto explore and embracewhat this life has to give meand follow the path that unfolds.I wantto bask in my bliss,in my wonder of lifeand the beauty that is who I am.I wantto be true to the mein the core of my depthsthat no one seems to understand.

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-9744119357476087652010-06-14T16:00:00.000-07:002010-06-14T16:11:53.538-07:00

Summer vacation has officially begun, and I was thinking today about how dangerous this unrestricted time can be. It will be a busy summer this year, filled with at least one trip out of the country, a rollercoaster weekend, another artists' retreat, Spanish class, rockstar photos, lots of writing, and a new running regimen.Oh, and my University of Florida graduate class.I've recently fallen for

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-21626784074230002182010-06-06T17:59:00.000-07:002010-06-06T18:16:46.037-07:00

"This is my dream, and I'll decide where it goes from here."This is one of my favorite lines from the movie, "Alice in Wonderland." I finally saw it this afternoon, and it resonated with me. Actually, much of what's happened to me in the last week has resonated with me like this. It's exciting...and a bit frustrating.It's no secret that I've been ensconced in the Spanish language lately. My Peru

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-11334438245152867522010-06-01T17:33:00.000-07:002010-06-01T17:46:36.624-07:00

Sunday night, after the sun set, I found myself in my front yard with Winnipeg. Something snapped under my feet, and I started running as fast as I could...wearing flip flops.And it felt so good to feel my legs push my body forward as my feet touched and lifted off the ground. My lungs filled with air. Good air that they have been craving. I felt like I was flying.Dogs are the perfect companion

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-92111596593917339842010-05-31T08:14:00.000-07:002010-05-31T11:00:48.895-07:00

The Nature of Love.They were the truest words I ever spoke.I love you,nowand for alwaysnot because we are one...together,but because you're youand I am me.This was our moment.It was beautiful.It is beautiful.It will always be.(c) 2010Waking Up *Lo siento.No entiendo.Las estrellas estan en el cielo,pero quiero ocultar mi cara de ellos.Las olas bailan en el mar,pero quiero correr antes ellos

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-86847086528034523312010-05-24T14:56:00.000-07:002010-05-24T16:12:26.184-07:00

I've been in a bit of a funk lately. Life seems to have caught up with me, and my usual optimism has been completely veiled by morose expressions and quick displays of frustrations. I think all I seem to say to people right now is, "I'm sorry. Ignore me. I have to work through this."For four weeks, now, I've been sick with food poisoning, a cold, and some chest funk that WON'T GO AWAY. I can't

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-6301858995745349062010-05-18T15:04:00.000-07:002010-05-18T15:13:47.658-07:00

I'm a big girl.I know that life happens and that tragedy is just as much part of the experience as joy. I've buried loved ones, navigated a divorce, and said my share of good-byes with and without tears in my eyes and soul. My heart has been broken, and I've survived.But what I like to think of my core of steel is apparently no match for a certain dog.My kindred adopted the dog back in December

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-74638598955177038662010-05-16T19:40:00.000-07:002010-05-16T20:19:06.592-07:00

Earlier tonight I posted on Facebook that my life seems like a giant sigh right now. It seems like the most appropriate description for what I'm feeling at the moment.Remember this poem I wrote 6 weeks ago? It's certainly a reality now, and I'm not entirely complaining. Obviously, I've had a sense that something was up, but no matter how much you're prepared for changes in life, they still

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-43002078278600440232010-05-10T16:08:00.000-07:002010-05-10T16:27:56.876-07:00

During lunch today, my friend and I were discussing the current economic and social issues facing Europe right now. It was a rather in-depth conversation for two Americans, but we're both very interested in different cultures. She even lived in Spain for a year in college and started her teaching career there. (She is also my biggest supporter for the idea of moving abroad for a few years.)I've

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-24998506049786118872010-05-02T15:00:00.001-07:002010-05-08T05:07:15.028-07:00

I went to the beach yesterday with a friend. He is going home for a visit with his family and friends and, like everyone who spends time in Florida, wants to show off a golden tan. We headed out around 6:00 and enjoyed the Gulf breeze, setting sun, and European pop music.I'm not sure whether I think sunrise or sunset is more magical. They both certainly have their merits, but I am much more

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-37140955286971798852010-04-29T20:09:00.000-07:002010-05-02T16:33:54.628-07:00

If there's one striking characteristic about me, it's the fact that I can be...well...a bit obsessive about things I like. I tend to operate in two modes: all or nothing.My parents and siblings know this all too well. When Amy Grant's "Lead Me On" album came out in 1988, I forced them to listen to the song "Saved by Love" over and over despite the fact that doing so meant I had to rewind the

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32658054.post-89872143603646206282010-04-25T15:52:00.000-07:002010-04-25T16:12:52.216-07:00

I spent a few nights this week searching for flights to Europe. Pearl Jam is playing there this summer, and it seemed like a really great idea to fly over for a few days to be part of a music festival. I mean, that's right up there at the top of everyone's priority list, right?I'll actually be in Peru for the bulk of PJ's European tour, and the three dates that would work for me are in Bilboa (

frabjouspoethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12191645781349378113noreply@blogger.com2