Merlin’s favorite times of the year are the fall and spring, simply because that’s when windows can be open and he can watch (and smell) the birds and squirrels that he’d like to be outside chasing. Here, he peers intently at the back yard through the open window right next to my desk earlier this week. Merlin is the one who disappeared for a couple of days after an escape through a screen about two years ago. He doesn’t seem to eager to leave the comforts of home behind after that adventure.

Healthy romance features mutual growth, not just ‘take me as I am’
Things you do in life determined by who you decide you want to be
ABC execs’ desire to delay interview shows misunderstanding of their job
A muse is a crutch for an artist, but some need a crutch to walk
Goodbye, Anne (2009-2019)
When I feel too much ambition, my ego has gotten too inflated
False dichotomy: Your choice isn’t coercive state vs. lawlessness
Tired of Obama? Electing Romney or another Republican won’t help
My friends stepped up in a big way when I needed their help for Bessie