First Person Singular by Wendy Braitman

Linda Ronstadt on Marriage

This is from a sublime 2013 interview on Fresh Air that they replayed today (and I heard for the first time):

GROSS: (Laughter) Never been married, right?

RONSTADT: No knack for it. You know, I think that the culture supports serial monogamy. And I think I had plenty of that. And I think I was reasonably monogamous in a serial way (laughter). But I’m not a good compromiser. I think I don’t have a knack for the kind of compromise. I admire people’s marriages, and I think it’s a wonderful thing to have. But I don’t think it’s the only way to live.

I think there are many ways to live and many ways to establish intimate support in your life that can be from family or friends or a great roommate that you like. You know, it doesn’t have to be someone you’re sleeping with. I figured that out pretty early on, and that was sort of how I felt. I was trying to sing. I was never trying to get married.

Tools of the Trade

I’ve never gotten the hang of a blow dryer. There’s one lodged in the back of a bathroom drawer somewhere, but I don’t think I’ve picked it up for years. It’s a good thing I live in a warm climate. Is this one of your essential tools?

Illustration by Jean Jullien

Stay Close

In new relationships, I have memories of the first time holding a hand. It always seemed so intimate. These days, I’m holding paws with my dog.

Illustration by MDNF

Dog V Cat

I remember a first date coming over to my house, seeing my cat, and heading for the hills. Allegedly it wasn’t me, it was allergies. As far as dogs, be nice to mine, or adios.

First Date by Ivan Brunetti

End of Week Zen

Fond memories. This is practically the only food that I would eat as kid (except, of course, on packaged white bread).

Painting by Duane Keiser

Slow it down

On days when I have the most perspective, I tell myself it’s a privilege to age. Not everyone gets the chance.

Illustration by Alessandra Olanow

Barriers to Intimacy

I used to beat myself up (metaphorically speaking) for doing all these things. With hindsight, I should’ve given myself a pass.

Illustration by Olivia de Recat

Change is in the air

Illustration by Michelle Rial

Happy Labor Day

Norman Rockwell’s Liberty Girl – 1943

Note to Ex

The other day, I calculated the total amount of time it takes me each week for ballet class. Including travel (which is a lot considering I’m driving in L.A. traffic), it’s about 9 hours. And then, I had this odd thought. If I was forced, right now, to choose between spending time in ballet class or having a romantic relationship, I’d choose ballet. 

Illustration by Michael Dumontier and Neil Farber