Suzy’s in the pre-week of the Raw Diet. Meaning, she is cutting back on certain things like meat and processed stuff. The idea is to eat better and lose weight. I’ve never had a problem with girth; if anything, I shy away from shorts because of my “chicken legs” (as my sister used to call them). I’m heavier now that I’ve ever been, but that’s 157lb. I was a svelte 145 when I got married (in 1999). But I’ve been feeling kinda blah lately, so I thought I would join Suzy’s journey by giving up something, to see what happens. I decided to give up beer and bread. Beer makes…

It’s harder than it sounds. When I bought the 10-acre clearcut in 1994, I just wanted some land. Then I thought I would just build a little shack to “get out of the rain.” Then I consulted an architect. And buried power lines underground. And added a clawfoot tub. Then an outdoor shower. This year it’s screening in the porch and adding LED outdoor lights. What does Simplify really mean? Life without convenience sucks. But discipline and hardship are essential to happiness. I really believe that. So where’s the balance? These days I long to spend time in the woods. The first few days I’m at Walden among my trees…

I’ve decided to take three days off this week. Wed-Friday. Since this option occurred to me this morning, I’ve been positively giddy. Now I can do stuff that’s fallen behind, way behind. Here’s a quick list: Sort socks. I just keep buying more when I need clean pairs. The result is two laundry basket-fuls of almost-matching black socks. The worst part is that the kind that is most numerous also includes several with a hole in the toe that is only visible when you put them on. Trial and error and trial again! Fix the toilet. We have two at home. Due to a leak in the tank of the…

I’m happier when I write here. It’s weird. So I’m going to try to do it more. ’cause I want to be happy. or -ier. Or is it more happy. Frack. Today I swept out the carport shed. Lots of mouse turd. Puddy sniffed at me with greater attention when I came in. Gross. Jasper and I went to Zellers last night and stocked up on Sens hats and shirts in anticipation of tomorrow night’s game (we have nosebleed seats). Baseball hats with hockey logos. After we got home and all tried on the hats Suzy told me Maria from Simon’s daycare called to report lice. Nice. So between the…