Pal JPEG

Finally, after an unacceptably (and unaccountably) long delay, Maman et Papa invited JPEG, Amy and Peter to dine. Amongst the toasts, mutual admiration, and critical commentary (that seems to be how humans communicate, i.e. lots of talk-talk), JPEG & I were able to relax and simply enjoy one another's company.

We sniffed each other, exchanged a few bawdy stories, commiserated as the humans blandished endearments towards us, and so forth.

The pickings were good: pistachios, Mexican beef, Iranian-influenced tofu, chips with cheese, ice cream. Trust Maman et Papa to provide a copious spread.

JPEG teaches me new tricks, patiently taking my size into account. And he runs wildly, exuberantly through the house, locates lost toys, and in short, is a firm friend. I admire him more than I can say.

Cheers, JPEG, this one's for you. Please return soon & frequently to your friend, Mercury

Relaxing, Eating, & Writing

I've been struck by the frequency with which my best writing comes after a relaxing snooze or a beautiful and tasty meal. Finally I've decided to analyze how & why such is the case & to share my findings with you, my loyal friends & fans.

Relaxing: Lounging around frees the mind to hear and see, smell and feel the sounds, sights, and experiential aspects of life too often ignored in our get-ahead-quickly world. From the vantage point of my bed, I explore a world of ideas untapped as I go about my daily round.

Eating: What's finer than a great meal, loving prepared and loving appreciated? A gourmet probably figures as the happiest being in life, savoring the subtle flavors of a fantastic meal, leaning back for sparkling conversation, drinking a superb wine while appreciating its subtle scents and colors. Each meal, a work of art.

Writing: When the body is soothed and the senses stimulated, therein lies the premium state of being for creating a thoughtful, well written (dare I say?) masterpiece.

Friends & fans, I can only recommend you follow my example, for whether you write a chef d'oeuvre or a letter home to your Maman et Papa, relaxing & eating are your pathway to success.

Please send your own stories about the value of relaxing & the pleasures of eating by clicking the comments option below.

'Til next time, your friend Mercury Murphy