Life, to a First Approximation

Hi.
When I came to grad school, I learned about the 'first approximation.' Example, 18 is close to 20, and 23 is close to 20, so 18X23=400, to a first approximation (real value 414.) DNA is really a rod that bends and behaves in a certain way - to a first approximation. You get the idea, it's a fudginess that covers up the fact that we don't have all the answers, or at least the ability to conceive of all the answers in our puny little heads without writing it out on paper. This is something that was particularly difficult to synthesize, as I really like my numbers hard and fast. But after 6 years in grad school, I have come to accept the first approximation of my life.
It is good, to a first approximation.
This is evident to me today on several levels. Things are by no means perfect, but I can handle them. Go me! This is a big difference from this time last year, when I felt I couldn't handle anything anymore. Not a lot has changed, except for me. I have changed. Damn it was painful, and it is still going on, but it is for the better.
Man, I had envisioned this post as a frou frou here's-what-I'm-knitting-for-my-niece and all-about-my-dog and here's-what-is-up-with-The-Sweet-Beau, but I guess that was wrong. oh well...

This is the last picture of Bruno, taken one week before he passed quietly in his sleep. He was a gentle old soul and I will miss his presence. Here's hoping he found the cushiest sofa to take his naps on where ever he passed to. And bunnies. Lots of bunnies. And cheese. And cooked chicken breasts. He deserves them all.



TSB is well. He and I split up yesterday to visit with our respective fathers. Then at the end of the day, he came over to my place and it was very natural. Being with him is very natural. Sometimes it is effortless and sometimes it requires effort, but this relationship is totally worth it. I don't think TSB knows all that he means to me. Well, maybe to a first approximation...

On the needles Katja for my niece. I managed to get both 'cups' done and in the process of working the rest in the round. This will be done by Operation Invade Texas (my sister's wedding on July 1) I get to travel to Houston two days early, since Sister has asked for help. I am really excited about this. Also, it means that TSB will be shepherding the rest of my family to Houston all by his lonesome. As I explained to my sister when she asked if he was up to it - "Trial by Fire!"

Also on the needles is a partially finished Tempting in a Be-A-U-tiful Debbie Bliss cashmerino in #617. This has been affectionately nicknamed Aubergina (pronounced with a thick French accent). Ahh, blessed be, will it ever be done?

Additionally, I am *writing* a manuscript - hopefully to be submitted by Scotland. I put writing in asterisks, since really, what I seem to be doing is finding new and interesting ways to procrastinate. I must buckle down, though, as my second grade teacher Mrs Watts used to bellow to me.

There is more, but by writing that prior paragraph, I have just guilted myself into closing this and trying to write some more tonight.
If you are reading this, and think anyone who knows me might be interested in my blatherings on, by all means pass along the URL. I have not done too much shameless self promotion lately and I am unsure how many are really interested.

Halley is well - more about her later.
Ciao