Dancing the Dog, Finding the Magic

My dog was barking at me to take her out for a walk this morning. I get annoyed and frustrated about this every morning, whether I actually need to go somewhere or not. I enjoy the outdoors, but somehow, with Salad (her name is Sally, but we give her loving variations as well), I'm impatient to get back to the house. This morning was no different. To pass the time, many days I've opted to snag my ipod and headphones. I dance the dog. I've also snagged a book, and will bury my head. 


This morning, I did the latter. Snagged a book: Outside Lies Magic. Salad was yanking me along, eager to get to that I-don't-see-what's-so-special-about-it patch of grass. It's not that far of a walk, but me and my impatience seem to transform it into a mountain climb, the hiking boots and parka jacket being my music and book. 


I was frustrated she was pulling me too quickly to open the book and continue reading about my need to aimlessly explore (and appreciate) outside. 


Fuck me. I laughed out loud about my blatant obtuseness/the irony. The magic is outside, Sabrina. It says that on the outside of the book. I kept the book closed for the walk. Looked around. 


1.Noticed these strange green rectangular things. They were about 2.5' tall. Ventilated something, because all the sides looked liked fixed horizontal blinds. The fear about the potential to step in dog poo prevented closer scrutiny. 


2. The trees leaves were really holey. Little creatures I can't see are devouring them. When? At night? (Who are you? I will research and report back!)


3. Someone in one of the apartments really cares about where they live. There are all sorts of plants, vines, knick-nacks, flowers, etc. in and around their front door. I've never noticed that particular door, but now I don't think I'll go by without sneaking closer (making sure Salad doesn't poo nearby someone's place who actually cares) and hoping to meet that person. Maybe I'll take initiative and knock sometime? "Hi, I walk my dog around here and couldn't help but notice what a lovely entrance you have. I just wanted to knock and compliment you!" 


other things i've noticed outside, other than this morning.


3. There is a bright yellow fire hydrant in the ditch across the street from Salad's favorite grass patch. I saw it, for the first time, last week even though I've lived in this house and walked this dog for 7 years. 


4. Driving on alligator alley there was a truck behind me carrying a load of huge concrete beams. What were they for? And it had 2 longhorn heads on the front grill. 


5. There is a big, beautiful dead moth on the landing between the third and fourth floor outside stairwell at my friend's apartment complex. It is burnt orange and brown and red. Very vibrant, the ground is grey. I say hi to it everyday when I go by. I pointed him out to my friend. My friend's roommate I don't think has ever seen Mr. Moth because he takes the elevator.