Category: Brian’s Journey

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The Quest for Future Kitty: Navigating the Rarity of Flame Point Siamese Cats

Written on February 2, 2024

Hello, Dear Readers,

My wife and I have embarked on what we anticipate will be an extensive journey—a search for a new kitten. Our hearts are set on finding a kitten that mirrors the unique characteristics of our previously cherished cat, Gambi. Gambi was not just any cat; she was a distinguished female apple-headed, flame-point Siamese cat, a type that holds a special place in our hearts.

This particular breed is relatively rare. It is a distinctive blend created through the crossing of a traditional Siamese with an orange American shorthair domestic cat. This specificity makes the quest for a similar kitten a challenge, as there are fewer breeders focusing on this hybrid, given the complexities and potential limitations associated with cat shows and pure breed registrations.

Breeders may lean towards raising purebred Siamese kittens, primarily due to the appeal of submitting them to prestigious cat shows, which come with stringent entry requirements. While my thoughts on breeders’ preferences are speculative, the breed’s rarity suggests a complex interplay of factors influencing their breeding choices.

In our pursuit, we’ve reached out to several breeders, expressing our interest and hoping they’ll contact us if they have what we’re seeking. Finding the right breeder and awaiting the arrival of a litter that meets our criteria might take time. This waiting period offers us an opportunity for emotional preparation, as the void left by Gambi’s absence remains profound.

Gambi’s departure has left a bittersweet taste, making the anticipation of a new kitten a hopeful and reflective time for us. I’ve affectionately referred to this yet-to-be-discovered kitten as “future kitty,” a placeholder name that signifies our hope and openness to this new chapter. Once we meet “future kitty,” we’ll choose a name that suits her unique personality and presence.

The search for a kitten similar to Gambi is more than a quest for a new pet; it’s a journey of healing, remembrance, and, eventually, the joyful welcoming of a new family member. It underscores our deep bond with our pets, who become irreplaceable parts of our lives and families.

Though the path to finding a “future kitty” may be filled with patience and anticipation, we are committed to it, guided by the memory of Gambi and the desire to open our hearts to another extraordinary cat. The emotional preparation we undergo now will undoubtedly make the arrival of our new kitten all the more remarkable as we look forward to the unique joy and companionship she will bring to our lives.

To our fellow pet lovers and readers, we’ll keep you updated on our journey. The search for “future kitty” is a testament to our enduring love for our pets, past, present, and future. Thank you for joining us on this heartfelt quest.

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Embracing the New Normal: A Day of Disruptions

Written on January 31, 2024

Hello Dear Readers,

Amidst the yearly ritual of my check-up meeting, I found myself navigating through the day’s tasks with notable success yesterday. The only casualty in my daily routine was my second cup of coffee—a minor change. Yet, it significantly contributed to my exhaustion as the night drew in.

The day had started on an alright note, and indulging in some extra sleep this morning, I’ve managed to shake off the weariness from yesterday’s altered schedule. Nonetheless, I eagerly anticipate the refreshing embrace of sufficient coffee to elevate my energy levels back to their familiar state.

This leads me to ponder whether recognizing these minor disturbances in my routine is a byproduct of having a routine in the first place. Recently, my daily patterns have been jostled by snow, unpredictable delivery schedules, and hospital appointments, making disruptions seem like the new status quo. Suppose a day sprinkled with unexpected events has become the norm. In that case, these aren’t disruptions but elements of my newly adapted normalcy.

Adopting this mindset might keep the external realities of my schedule the same. Still, it could offer me a steadier footing amidst the unpredictability. The irregularities are no longer obstacles but nuances of a continuously evolving life. This shift in perception, although subtle, can ease the strain of adjustment and help me navigate through the ebbs and flows with a sense of resilience.

It’s somewhat comforting to think that what once seemed like disruptions are now integral parts of my daily life. It’s a testament to human adaptability and the subtle power of perspective in managing life’s uncertainties. While the absence of my second cup of coffee might have left me yearning for its comforting routine, it also underscored the capacity to find equilibrium amid change.

So, as I look forward to my next cup, it’s not just the caffeine boost I’m after but a moment to reflect on the beauty of embracing the unexpected. It’s about finding balance in the flux and recognizing that a shift in routine can sometimes lead to a deeper appreciation of the small constants that anchor us. The disruptions, in their own way, remind us of our ability to adapt and find joy in the new patterns that emerge.

In closing, my dear readers, I encourage you to view the disruptions in your own lives not as hindrances but as opportunities to forge new norms. In these moments of adaptation, we often discover unanticipated strengths and joys. Let’s raise our cups—be it the first, second, or even third—to the beauty of resilience and the endless possibilities in what we might have once called disruptions.

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A Morning of Hustle: Navigating Through Routine and the Unexpected

Written on January 30, 2024

Hello Dear Readers,

Each day, as dawn breaks, my first act is physically exercising. It’s my unwavering ritual, the cornerstone of my day. However, today presented a slight deviation from the norm. The reason? My calendar was marked for my yearly health examination, a non-negotiable hour-long appointment.

In a flurry, I glanced at the clock, gauging my precious minutes before embarking on my journey to the clinic. A quick mental run-through of my morning tasks reassured me that I should manage to weave through my routine unscathed, barring any dallying. The key, I reminded myself, was efficiency—completing my exercises in time to ensure a leisurely walk to the clinic without compromising my daily goals.

But then, an unexpected reminder popped into my head. Weren’t we expecting our water delivery today? Given our dwindling supply, this was no minor detail. Hastily, I checked our schedule, and to my immense relief, the delivery was indeed slated for today. True to their word, the water arrived, sparing us the inconvenience of a dry spell—we were on our last bottle, after all.

I navigated through my morning chores and fitness regimen with haste and precision. The clock ticked away, but my pace was steady. A sense of accomplishment washed over me as I laced up my shoes, ready to head out. Despite the tight schedule and unforeseen considerations, I adhered to my morning ritual, ensuring that my day started positively.

Mornings like these remind me of the beauty embedded in our routines. Yes, they are occasionally interrupted by the unexpected, but isn’t that the essence of life? These slight deviations challenge our flexibility and resilience, pushing us to adapt and overcome. And as I stepped out, heading towards my annual check-up, I couldn’t help but appreciate the small victories that come from managing the chaos of everyday life.

So here’s to embracing the hurdles and cherishing the mundane. After all, it’s in these moments that we find the proper rhythm of our days.

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Spring’s Subtle Arrival: A Reflection

Written on January 28, 2024

As we inch closer to the end of another week, the promise of spring whispers ever so softly to us. It’s a time filled with subtle signs that herald the return of warmer days. During my recent runs, I’ve been greeted by the sight of robins, those quintessential messengers of spring, frolicking across various lawns. Their presence is a comforting reminder that spring is indeed on its way.

Reflecting on this same period last year, I recall the slightly surreal sight of these birds hopping through a light blanket of snow. It was a peculiar contrast – the embodiment of spring dancing amidst winter’s lingering embrace. I hope that this year, the transition will be less jarring, with spring taking its rightful place without the backdrop of winter’s chill.

Yet, with the arrival of spring comes the inevitable: a list of chores that seem to awaken alongside the blossoming flora. A significant part of this seasonal shift includes the resurgence of yard work. Last year, I successfully maintained our outdoor space and found the perfect balance. Our homeowner’s association, perhaps taking note of the improvements, spared us the usual reminders to tend to our yard. This small victory encouraged me to adopt a similar strategy this year.

With all its beauty and promise, spring also reminds us of the cyclical nature of responsibilities and the satisfaction derived from their fulfillment. As much as it signifies renewal and growth, it also beckons us to engage with our surroundings to care for the land that, in turn, sustains and nurtures us. So, as we stand on the cusp of this season of rebirth, I embrace its joys and demands with equal enthusiasm.

As you observe the signs of spring in your own lives, you may find joy in the simple pleasures it brings and resilience in the face of its challenges. Here’s to a season of growth, renewal, and the harmonious balance between enjoying nature’s beauty and contributing to its upkeep.

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Back on Track: Rediscovering the Joy of Running

Written on January 24, 2024

Hello Dear Readers,

Good news abounds as I’ve finally managed to reintegrate my beloved running routine into my life, marking a significant milestone since the interruption caused by the last snowfall. Venturing out yesterday for the first time since winter’s grip loosened, I embarked on my run under the cloak of rainfall—a testament to my determination to reclaim this piece of my life.

Despite concerns that a week-long break might have eroded my speed, the run unfolded surprisingly well. Rather than being a deterrent, the rain seemed almost inconsequential to my pace. That’s not to say it was effortless; by the journey’s end, my legs were broadcasting their fatigue loud and clear, a tangible reminder of the hiatus’s impact. Yet, the early night that followed—ushering in a deep, restorative sleep—left me feeling rejuvenated today, to the point where I might even declare myself a tad over-rested.

Reflecting on this, I find my evolving relationship with running quite fascinating. There was a time when I viewed it more as a necessary evil—a means to an end, filled with discomfort rather than delight. However, as my cardiovascular fitness improved, so too did my perspective. The activity I once deemed painful has now transformed into a source of joy, a shift in sentiment that even a rainy run couldn’t dampen.

This rekindled enthusiasm for running signifies more than just a return to physical activity; it marks the reassembly of my daily routine, piece by piece. The holidays and winter conditions had scattered my habits like leaves in the wind. Still, with my running shoes laced once more, I feel as though I’ve woven those scattered pieces back together. The structure and familiarity of my routine have been restored, imbuing me with a sense of accomplishment and normalcy.

The challenge now lies in maintaining this momentum. The ease with which life’s disruptions can unravel our routines reminds us of the need for resilience and dedication. My recent return to running serves as a personal victory and a blueprint for navigating the ebb and flow of life’s inevitable interruptions. With each step on the pavement, rain or shine, I’m not just running; I’m reaffirming my commitment to my well-being and the routines that sustain it.

As I lace up my shoes for the next run, I do so with a renewed sense of purpose and a heart full of gratitude for the ability to move forward, both literally and metaphorically. Once a daunting task, running has become a cherished ritual, a source of strength and joy amidst the chaos of life. It’s a poignant reminder that the path back to ourselves sometimes begins with a single step forward.

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A Slippery Delivery: Navigating Winter Challenges

Written on January 22, 2024

Hello Dear Readers,

This incident brought back memories of a recent struggle faced by my wife. Just a day prior, she had endeavored to tackle the same hill on her way to work, only to fail despite multiple attempts. Her resignation was a testament to the hill’s impassable state. Sharing the delivery van’s story with her, we found common ground in acknowledging the hill’s daunting challenge.

A part of me harbors guilt for the delivery personnel who braved such treacherous conditions to fulfill their duties. While a beautiful spectacle, the winter weather can transform familiar routes into hazardous obstacles, testing the resolve and skill of those who navigate them. Our delivery driver’s experience serves as a reminder of the unseen struggles that often accompany the convenience of home deliveries, especially in the grip of winter’s icy hold.

As we sat down to enjoy our Hello Fresh meal, our thoughts lingered on the challenges faced by those who work tirelessly to bring comfort and normalcy to our lives, regardless of the weather. It’s a humbling reflection that deepens our appreciation for the simple joys and conveniences we often take for granted.

In these moments, we’re reminded of the resilience and dedication of individuals who ensure that life goes on, even when nature throws its icy curves. It’s a testament to the human spirit’s perseverance, a quality that shines brightest against winter’s chill.

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Anticipation in the Air: Navigating Winter’s Last Chill

Written on January 22, 2024

Hello Dear Readers,

Embarking on my daily neighborhood reconnaissance, today felt remarkably reminiscent of those childhood moments precariously balanced on the cusp of unwrapping Birthday or Christmas gifts. Though decidedly warmer than yesterday’s embrace, the air stubbornly lingered below the freezing threshold of 32°F (0°C).

As the first light of dawn broke, the roads mirrored the previous day’s icy sheen, casting doubts on my planned run. The weather prophets heralded a dramatic rise in temperatures. Yet, gleaming with a deceptive gloss, the roads hinted at a persistent icy veil. This predicament left me in a quandary, pondering the feasibility of my morning run. Annoyance tinged my thoughts, but a decision loomed in the not-too-distant future. I resolved to grant the unfolding day a few more hours, hoping the view from my front window—specifically, the hill rising from our domicile—would offer clarity.

Regardless of today’s verdict, I harbored confidence in the promise of Wednesday. It stood as a beacon of clear passage should today’s conditions conspire against my desires. My patience, though frayed, needed only to endure a fleeting moment longer. The transient nature of this winter’s final tease did little to dampen my spirits, for the anticipation of warmer days and cleared paths held its own charm.

This season, with its unpredictable whims, serves as a gentle reminder of nature’s inherent unpredictability and the small joys found in the anticipation of change. As we navigate these final days of chill, there’s a unique pleasure in the waiting, a sentiment familiar to those who cherish the slow unveiling of spring’s warmth. Just as a child eagerly anticipates the revealing of gifts, so too do we await the unveiling of the season’s final act, a transition filled with promise and the potential for renewed outdoor endeavors.

Whether today grants passage or bids me wait, the anticipation is a gift. It refers to simpler times, where the joy was as much in the waiting as in the receiving. So, as I peer out my window, gauging the day’s potential, I’m reminded that patience, though tested, is often rewarded with the sweetest outcomes. Here’s to the hopeful wait for winter’s curtain call, a period of anticipation that, in its own right, is a cherished gift.

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Embracing Winter’s Pause: My Life in Nashville

Written on January 20, 2024

Hello, my dear readers,

The past several days have unfolded in an unexpected calm, as a blanket of snow has enveloped Nashville, temporarily stopping my outdoor running routine. This unforeseen pause in my running regimen might seem like a setback, yet, remarkably, it hasn’t hindered the progression of my overall fitness journey. Indeed, despite the snow’s insistence on claiming my running days, I’ve found that the rest of my exercise routine has not just continued unabated but has thrived enough to prompt an exciting advancement: an increase in both weight and repetition in my workouts. This progression is a testament, I believe, to the strength I’ve managed to build up over time—a strength that now confidently warrants this next step in my fitness journey.

In tandem with the weather’s imposition on my physical activities, our household routines have also seen a minor disruption. This week, we opted to skip our usual Hello Fresh delivery, an adjustment that, while small, marks a slight deviation from our routine. My wife has contacted Hello Fresh, and we’re looking forward to resuming our shipments on Monday. It’s a minor hiccup in the grand scheme of things but indicative of the little ways in which this unexpected snowfall has nudged our lives off their usual tracks.

Navigating the roads has become a challenge in its own right. The sharp decrease in temperatures come nightfall, transforming them into treacherously slippery paths and rendering our car’s attempts to conquer the hills of Nashville futile. My wife has braved these conditions in the past few days, endeavoring to drive out, but to no avail. Yet, there’s a whisper of change in the air. The weekend promises a slight warmth, kindling hope that my running can resume on Monday. Should the weather remain stubborn, the forecast for Wednesday is promising, suggesting temperatures warm enough to thaw the lingering chill. It’s a waiting game, one played with the patience and optimism that soon, we will return to our normal rhythms.

This interlude, brought on by the snow, has been a period of reflection and slight adjustment. It’s a reminder of the ebb and flow of life, of the importance of flexibility and the ability to adapt to the unforeseen. While I keenly anticipate the return to my running trails and the normalcy of our daily routines, I also appreciate this momentary pause. It has offered me a chance to enjoy the progress I’ve made in other areas of my life, to savor the anticipation of resuming where I left off, and to plan for the warmth that will soon reclaim Nashville.

As I look forward to the days ahead, I’m reminded of the resilience and adaptability that life often requires of us. Whether adjusting exercise routines, managing household deliveries, or navigating wintry roads, each challenge presents an opportunity for growth and appreciation. And so, as we await the return of warmer days and smoother routines, let’s embrace the beauty and lessons this winter pause has to offer.

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Snowy Disruptions in Nashville: A Tale of Delayed Deliveries

Written on January 16, 2024

Hello Dear Readers,

Nashville has once again draped itself in a rare blanket of snow, continuing the trend we’ve noticed since relocating to Tennessee in 2018. While the snowfall itself is a manageable ordeal, the cascading effect on our routine deliveries has turned this week into a minor saga of inconvenience.

Our doorstep has seen a conspicuous absence of deliveries in the wake of the snow. Our anticipated Hello Fresh box, a cornerstone of our weekly meal planning, has yet to be found. Similarly, our water delivery has been paused, and the usual sight of the garbage truck trundling down the street has been notably missing. It’s a trifecta of disruption that, while not catastrophic, certainly tilts the scale towards annoyance.

Thankfully, foresight in water storage has us covered until the next delivery cycle, ensuring we won’t be parched for a while. And while the absence of our Hello Fresh shipment throws a wrench into our meal routine, it’s hardly a sentence to culinary monotony. We have enough provisions to pivot and adapt, albeit with a slight grumble over the inconvenience.

Introducing Hello Fresh into our household was a strategic move to alleviate the meal planning burden on my wife’s shoulders. With her schedule leaving little room for the weekly meal prep ritual, the service has been a boon, ensuring we have a clear plan and the necessary ingredients for each meal. The current pause, however, leaves us missing the predictability and convenience we’d come to appreciate.

An update from Hello Fresh on our delivery status would be welcome. However, I understand the unpredictability of weather-related delays. Patience will be our meal of choice until the situation clears. In the meantime, we’re far from a state of culinary despair. Our pantry and freezer are stocked with various dry goods, rice, and an assortment of frozen vegetables and meats—a testament to our preparedness for such interruptions.

While the absence of our scheduled deliveries demands a return to more traditional meal planning and preparation, it’s a manageable detour. The presence of staples like dried chickpeas ensures that our dinners may require a bit more creativity and effort in the coming days; the specter of hunger remains a distant concern.

Reflecting on the situation is a reminder of the small dependencies we develop on modern conveniences and the resilience required when those systems momentarily falter. Snow in Nashville, it seems, brings more than just a change in scenery—it brings a lesson in adaptability and patience seasoned with a dash of unexpected simplicity.

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A Culinary Saturday: Embracing the Bustle with Love and Food

Written on January 14, 2024

Hello Dear Readers,

Saturdays have transformed into the pinnacle of my weekly routine, bustling with culinary endeavors to fill our home with an abundance of nourishing meals. This particular Saturday unfurls with a promise of busyness, as I’ve dedicated myself to a series of cooking tasks. My mission? To ensure my wife is well-stocked with delectable options for lunches and breakfasts in the week ahead.

Once my morning rituals are behind me, I’ll dive into the art of crafting guacamole, a vibrant start to my culinary marathon. Next on my agenda is the replenishment of my wife’s beloved breakfast burritos stash, followed by the preparation of salmon nanbanzuke. This Southern Japanese delicacy, featuring succulent salmon amidst tangy pickled vegetables, marks a novel addition to our weekly meal repertoire, despite being a dish I’ve mastered over numerous occasions, thanks to my wife’s teaching.

Cooking, for me, is not just a household chore; it’s a therapeutic journey. It’s about the rhythm and flow of processes: selecting ingredients, meticulous preparation, cooking itself, and the unavoidable cleanup that accompanies a small kitchen like ours. In such confined spaces, multitasking becomes necessary, with dish cleaning interwoven seamlessly into the cooking process.

This week’s introduction of nanbanzuke* to our meal plan is a testament to our adventurous culinary spirit, spurred by my wife’s occasional trips to her office. It’s essential for me that she has access to homemade, comforting meals during her workdays, a small but meaningful gesture of care.

Today, however, is not just another Saturday. It carries a sense of personal achievement as I’ve hit a new milestone in my fitness journey. The weights I’ve been lifting have seen an increase, a challenge that felt daunting yet achievable—a sweet spot that signals growth and resilience. This physical accomplishment mirrors the effort and love I pour into our meals, a balance between nurturing the body and the soul.

In essence, my Saturdays are more than just the busiest day of the week; they reflect love, dedication, and joy in the simple act of cooking. Whether whipping up a batch of breakfast burritos, delicately balancing the flavors of nanbanzuke, or pushing my physical limits, each task is imbued with a sense of purpose and fulfillment. This is how I choose to support and care for my wife, ensuring she steps into each week with the comfort of home-cooked meals and knowing that every dish is prepared with love.