Hello, My Name is Doug

Last week, Claire had an orthodontist appointment. I was excited because it meant I would have an hour to do something decadent, something that I love .... reading magazines. Waiting rooms and hair salons are the only time I get to partake in this little luxury, so I look forward to appointments and cross my fingers the doctors and my hair stylist are behind.

I walked into Mr. Mitchell's office and headed straight for the magazine rack, which I have to say is one of the best in town -- he meets the needs of a vast majority of people with his magazines, which I appreciate because there are places that don't, like Jiffy Lube and Ramona Tire just to name a few. The only magazine you get in those venues is "Popular Mechanic." They need women working at their establishments who will subscribe to something that does not involve car parts, and motor oil (two things I hate.)

Anyway, I grabbed a stack of magazines and sat down on an uncomfortable bench covered in naugahyde and got to work. I opened Martha Stewart first, because I'm always on the hunt for a good idea and came across an article that enraptured me the minute I looked at the page. It was about a couple who quit their jobs, moved to Maine and became choclatiers. You just can't imagine the electricity that vibrated through my body as I read about these people. Words like farmers market, lavender buds, vanilla sugar, and ganache filled my mind with all sorts of ideas like.... "How can I get Matt to quit his job.... Will my kids be willing to move??? I wonder where I can order Peruvian chocolate (it's rare you know.) I was half way to Maine when I was stopped in my tracks.


Claire appeared and said "I'm done, let's go."

It's been 48 hours and I'm still thinking about Maine. ... and chocolate!!! I'm busy! I have homework to do, and jewelry to make, I don't have time for these thoughts invading my head! What am I going to do?

I guess I better admit something here to those of you who don't know me very well. I suffer from a serious problem. I am unable to stay focused. I really am, and it drives me crazy.

I was lamenting about this fact with my friend Julie the other day, and right in the middle of our conversation she yelled:

"Squirrel!!"

I just about fell on the floor laughing. If you've seen the movie "Up" you will understand what she was so eloquently trying to tell me ....

Doug the Dog. That's me.