Running on empty

I’ve finally caught up with myself enough to write a post.  The lead-up to Christmas was incredibly hectic at work, only to then drive 400 miles to visit my sister and the rest of my family.  Along some wonderful gifts and memorable moments, I also got a cold and a stomach bug for Christmas, so returned home just as exhausted as when I left, and I have been trying to catch up ever since.

While at my sister’s, I read Lisa Manterfield’s I’m Taking My Eggs and Going Home:  How One Woman Dared to Say No to Motherhood (one of the gift’s I received).  Reflecting on her experience emboldened me to describe why My Man and I decided to not adopt as part of a larger discussion with my brother-in-law’s family.  I was very matter-of-fact about the whole thing, and got some interested questions.  I mean–what the heck?  I had just patiently and cheerfully listened to an hour-long discussion on child-rearing.  I also think that some people close to us are wondering about our decision, but are too polite to ask.  Regardless, it felt good. Our experience is just as valid and legitimate as those with children, and I felt proud that I took myself seriously enough to risk including our angle.

An early January hike with My Man and Elroy

 

7 Comments

  • Mali

    January 13, 2012 at 11:15 pm Reply

    Lovely photo! And I’m very glad that you felt you could speak openly and safely about your decision. Hope you’re feeling better now too.

    • Ruby

      January 14, 2012 at 10:46 am Reply

      Oh Mali, the photo was was totally inspired by your photos on A Separate Life! You know imitation is the sincerest form of flattery:)

  • Nicole

    January 16, 2012 at 5:37 pm Reply

    Beautiful picture!!!

    I love getting out in the woods.

    I do hope you get to feeling better soon and get the rest you need. Such an important part thing.

    I think it is really wonderful you were able to explain your reasons to family and that they listened and heard you. That’s wonderful. Those conversations can be difficult, and it is nice when you can open up to others and be accepted.

  • Klara

    February 10, 2012 at 1:40 am Reply

    I am really impressed: somebody bought you Lisa’s book! May I ask, who was it? It was a lovely gift!
    I read the book and loved it.
    I also loved Pamela’s Silent Sorority.
    Both books helped me a lot!

    • Ruby

      February 13, 2012 at 6:17 am Reply

      Hi Klara!
      My Man bought me Lisa’s book (it was on my Christmas wishlist). I also loved Pamela’s Silent Sorority. I hope you are staying warm!

  • Hope

    November 21, 2012 at 1:10 am Reply

    Hi! What breed is your dog, Elroy? The white one. I have a dog that is absolutely identical to yours and I don’t know what her breed is. She is identical, right down to the nose and ears and eyes and feet and everything.

    • Ruby

      February 16, 2013 at 10:42 am Reply

      I’ve been told he is a Dogo Argentino, by someone who had one. The gentleman who told me received his dog from a buddy who was fighting in the Falkland Islands. Check out the pictures of the breed on Google! Sorry it took me so long to reply…I didn’t get an email notification of your post like I usually do!

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