Why She Stayed Home From Church

[Angela]

The air is gray and the wind has started.  It lifts and twists the blinds on the porch like banners on a Chinese pavilion.  She stands in the middle of the yard at eleven o’clock, in sour pajamas and holding a coffee mug, trying to convince a little dog to squat.  Lifting his leg and pretending to pee on a picnic table is all he will do.  Leaves are winding their way down onto the grass, as if threaded like beads.  They run back into the house as the big drops start, where he will lie on his back with his head in the crook of her arm.  He will sleep through the storm, his belly soft and warm, his feet flexed and furry, like a rabbit’s.

[Bill Floyd]

The images and similes are earned and effective, giving the anecdote a real, earthy depth.    

[Robert Crisman]

That dog's worth all the hallelujahs the shouters come up with. Faved.

[Jared Handley]

I can't think of a better way to describe it than "lovely." Very nice.

[Kristine_ES]

i watched leaves slide down on threads like beads all the way home yesterday. 

lovely!

[Gita]

Plus, once a dog falls asleep with some portion of his/her body upon your body, you have an obligation to stay right there.  Right there, a human pillow, regarding the animal fondly, noticing its various parts both perfect and imperfect. I feel sure there must be something in scripture about that. 

[bolton carley]

loved the sour pj's, too.  and i think a day in the house watching the storm is somewhat spiritual.  especially with love in your arms.  awesome as always.

[Russo Lewis]

" They run back into the house as the big drops start, " 'not quite sure why, but that phrase pulled it all together for me. Makes me want to read more. 

[Jenni Marie]

I think a day at home with the dog is a more spiritual experience than most people would find at church.

[Toby Tucker Hecht]

I, too, love sour pajamas. What a wonderful way to spend a day.

[Jadie Jones]

And that is absolutely heaven :)