One of the biggest reasons we are working so hard so as to eventually live in the country is that Melina and I are both Wiccan. Now, of course there are witches in the city. We're everywhere, and not just wearing pirate shirts (men) and bathed in patchouli (women). The stereotype exists, but there are lots of urban pagans who live full spiritual lives in their respective cities, and still shop at the local H&M.

I am not like that. I have never felt like I fit where I live, nor did I really fit where I grew up. I am so envious of those who can have a regular connection to nature. When I drive out of a city, there is a point of high ground where you can see a vista ahead, rolling hills and grazing cows. At that moment I always let out a breath that I hadn't known I was holding. It never fails that I feel all of my muscles relax. The idea of being able to go for a walk that is not on concrete, to fall asleep and not hear traffic and sirens, is heavenly to me.

I am reading the book 'The Discovery of Witches' right now.

Honestly, there was little chance that I would not like it. Witches, vampires and it begins at the Bodleian Library in Oxford. This is like my own personal Geek trifecta. The only thing that would make it better is if it were written by Joss Whedon. Why do I bring this up? As a Wiccan I certainly don't think I have the powers of the witches in fantasy literature. If I did, there would be some nervous ex boyfriends, I'll tell you that for nothing! But the book is still making me long for the life I am working towards. The connection to the elements is what I am missing. I feel cut off. Like I am trying to draw energy from an outlet but the wires are cut.

We will get there. Melina is sewing as we speak, and I am so proud of her painting again. I am writing and trying to make the best of this short term leave from work, to the degree that I can. How do I picture us in the future? It has been suggested that we are not unlike the aunts in the movie 'Practical Magic'. Sisters, witchy, big gorgeous house ...

and midnight margaritas! Now that's what I'm talking about!

~ Denise

What are we doing? So, both Denise and I have been off of work for what feels like a year, but it's about 3 weeks. I have pneumonia, and can't talk for coughing. I mean barf up a lung coughing. Doctor has advised another week (to make it an even 4) off of work. Denise is switching up her medication. Before that she had a sinus infection. It's been a fun house. The fact that we are still alive ( as in, not having killed each other, a miracle ), and like each other is proof that we are BFFs. With all of this introspection time, we have become even more focussed and oddly driven. I am returning to painting. My love of landscapes cannot be ignored any longer. No worries, Moody & Sanguine fans, I'll be sewing still, just adding one more plate to spin. Denise will be making her jewels and writing. We will be working towards world domination. Lol, well, personal freedom. Same thing it seems. - Melina. :D