WALRUS SPANKING…
Posted by Robin Easton
Don’t you just love that title? Read on…
This morning I slept in and woke at 6:45 am. Usually I wake around 5:30 to 6:00 am to watch the sunrise. I felt sad because I missed it. I also felt blah because it would be a stay at home, catch up on laundry, grocery shopping, work kind of day, a “normal” uneventful day. I wanted something free, adventurous and wild.
While my sweetheart slept in I went into my office (spare bedroom) to catch up on emails and work on podcasts for my website. About 9:30 he rose and we piled onto the couch and cuddled and rambled on about all kinds of nonsensical things, the way every sane person should do on a Sunday morning. We got talking about our work and what we each do for a living. I mentioned that I told people I was writer even though my book was not yet in bookstores. Then I said very earnestly that from now on when people asked me what I did for a living I was going to say, “I LIVE” (period). My sweetie who is a college professor, turned to me and said, “The next time someone asks me what I do for a living I’m going say I spank walruses.” We rolled around on the couch laughing our guts out.
For breakfast Sweetie had coffee and a pop-tart (kid food) and I had kefir and organic blueberries (health food). We finished eating and did our Sunday morning ritual of lying on the couch, one at each end with our legs stretched out beside each other, and we “TALK and LISTEN”. It works like this. The first person talks about anything they want to and the other person listens WITHOUT interrupting. No matter what is said they simply listen until the other person says. “I’m done. Your turn.” Then the second person talks as long as they need to and the first person listens without interrupting. Then when the second person says, I”‘m done.” They repeat this until no one has anything more to say. We talk about the stresses and joys of our work, our dreams, the things we want to do together or individually, our pain, our grief, our accomplishments (both in work and inward growth). We talk about life, our relationship, philosophy, the environment, the world, love, whatever arises. We’ve done this for eight years and it works because although we are honest neither of us blames or accuses. We treat each other and the time we talk as sacred. It is powerful. Even if a couple is already very close you come to know the other person in ways you just don’t when you only “talk-on-the-run.”
After we arrived home from the grocery store we had shakes for lunch before we hauled our laptops into the living room so we could be near each other while we worked. As the day warmed up I brought my summer clothes from the storage shed and packed away my winter clothes. I put on two loads of la
laundry that Sweetie folded. Yeah! : ) Then I cut apples for a pie for him while sporadically recording flute music for a podcast.
The day flew by and I hadn’t stretched my legs, breathed clean air, heard birds sing, or greeted the sky. My Sweetheart said he had to drive to the college to get a book he’d left there, did I want come. It’s a beautiful area with wide open vistas; you can see for miles. I was ready in two minutes. He dropped me off on a big hill two miles from the college where I bathed in orange and blue glow. I touched heaven as I stood alone on the hill listening to bluebirds and robins. I saw all the way to…Forever.
I took some photos and headed off to meet my sweetheart. Although I had my proverbial pack on my back with camera equipment and enough survival gear to live in the wild for a year : ) I still felt as light as a feather as I raced into the sun. I ran over a mile, non-stop, before I spotted my sweetheart on the road driving toward me. I arrived home full of fresh air and sun, threw the apple pie in the oven, did some yoga and suddenly realized that I had lived an extraordinary day of walrus spanking, apple pie, and running free into the sunset. Life is astounding when we see the extraordinary in the ordinary. : )
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This Site: © Robin Easton
Website: http://www.nakedineden.com
Blog: http://nakedineden.com/nakedinedenblog/
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30 Comments so far...
Whiteotter Says:
13 May 2008 at 2:54 pm.
Hello Robin, I have been playing catch up on the blog world today. I got to spend one of these wonderful days spanking walruses with my sweetie yesterday as well. we didn’t leave the house until after lunch.. it was a rainy cold day and so we took a drive up and over the snowy beautiful mountain and into the park (Yellowstone) Just the two of us and our thoughts, hopes, dream, you name it, I think we covered it yesterday.. these days are so wonderful and healing and it is nice to know that you don’t take them for granted either.. any moment we spend together truely “alone”, connecting with the ones that we love are so special and precious….
Great links today thanks for sharing.
These are both stunning photographs.. I have been trying to get a good one of a magpie, one like yours that shows their magnificent colors.. They are such smart little birds..
Have a beautiful week..
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Liara Covert Says:
13 May 2008 at 3:19 pm.
I love your idea about telling people you “spank walruses.” Many people fear stepping outside their comfort zones. This often translates into cautious or limited questioning in social settings, from “what is your name?” to basic inquiries like, “what do you do?” To catch people off guard, spark their curiosity, or otherwise encourage them to think differently, is a priceless gift that can’t ever be measured. You invite them to open their souls and rediscover the meaning of life.
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Benny Greenberg Says:
13 May 2008 at 3:49 pm.
You know what is great? Well there is no one here to ask me “what” so I better just spill it. When I read your blog it is always such a clear sign of how much you are in love. With what you do – with the guy on the couch and with yourself. It is just such a positive vibe that comes off of the posts. And until one loves themselves it is impossible to love another…completely…
Now as far as the walrus… it is always about naked with you isn’t it?
Ben
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horatiosalt Says:
13 May 2008 at 3:50 pm.
What a perfect day you had… and isn’t it a special marker when you get to rotate the winter clothes for the summer ones? thanks for your kind words about my blog. I always enjoy your comments there. Thanks for visiting and being such a loyal fan.
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thefearlessblog Says:
13 May 2008 at 4:39 pm.
Your special dedication means so much to me. When I entered the blog world a few months ago, I never imagined meeting such awesome people so soon. In fact, over the weekend I realized that the first few people with whom I made a “real” connection ( Liz at Pencil Paw, Pam/Georgia Farm Woman, Nards/Nardeeism, Sky who you mention above, Patti/Peacoxcreations and you of course) have remained constant in my “blog world” but also in my life and in my heart. I enjoy sharing your stories and photos with my family and although we live in different parts of the US and differ in many ways, we are also very similar and therefore connected in some way. Everything happens for a reason; there are no coincidences. Through you and the others I have mentioned, I have learned so much, found so much and become better because of it. I have been on an amazing ride these past few months, and in some strange way you “have” been on that ride with me, inspiring me along and offering support. This post for instance made me giggle and then made me realize I have so much left to do that must be done. Paraphrasing Bob Proctor…I must see that which I want before I can hold it in my hand. And you my friend are doing just that. You are a writer…and you have done and will do “great things.”
P.S. I recommend that you leave all walrus spankings to the professionals. Hahahahah
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skylar Says:
13 May 2008 at 10:02 pm.
Namaste’ sweet beautiful soul! Now how did I not get this post, I am subscribed? This was written on the 11th hahahaha. I thought “OH BOY” what the heck is Robin up to NOW as if snakes weren’t enough, now you’ve gotten walruses to participate. Robin, Robin what ever shall this world do without you? ;0)
Needless to say I had to read this, so thank you for sending me that message! These photos are STUNNING, look at that bird, he is so relaying sights he has seen in a way we cannot. :0) I know how you feel when you said you missed the sunrise. I have been trying to upload a video on my YouTube account on the spring snow storm we had, but two of my videos are 10 minutes long and keep crashing my computer when I try and upload so I have been trying to get a smaller clip of only 2 minutes long on there.
And thank you Robin, I was laughing then I had tears, seriously. It’s just one of those things, that now has stuck in my psyche with enough starch, and will come up when I least expect it. Like watching a show with a walrus and probably saying out loud, leave the walrus spankings to the professionals. Thanks Robin! :0) *grin* Remember if you’re ever in Canada, Sask…look me up and come on by.
metta
sky
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João Soares Says:
14 May 2008 at 2:52 am.
Lovely person you are, Robin Easton
You deserve to be in my environmental education dossier.
http://bioterra.blogspot.com/2007/05/sobre-fragilidade-grandeza-dos-dias.html
Feel good to meet so energetic and positive people around the world as you.
Keep on the good work
Beijos/Kisses of waves and Esperança/Hope
Joao Soares
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Bird Says:
14 May 2008 at 3:48 am.
Hello Robin! Inventing your own job title is VERY important. When someone asks me what I do for a living, I say I am and adept of tactical frivolity. It’s far closer to the truth than any of the other dryer terms I could use.
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lizh Says:
14 May 2008 at 7:34 am.
Robin, I am touched and honored at the mention here and your kind words about my writings. You are a very thoughtful, kind and inspiring person and I value our ‘cyber-friendship’. Warm people like yourself, Marlene and Nards as well, are special ‘finds’ in this vast world (cyber or otherwise) and I’m so glad I’ve found you all.
The ‘forseen unevenful’ day you thought you had predicted turned out to be perfect by the sound of it. You experienced all the wonderful things life has to offer..time alone ..thoughtful time with your Sweetheart…and an appreciation of nature’s food, light, and itself. It doesn’t get better than that!
Thank you again Robin…and keep continuing to inspire us all…liz
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don Says:
14 May 2008 at 2:20 pm.
What? You didn’t wrestle an iguana or grok a wallaby? I find this kind of lazy Sunday behavior completely unacceptable! Get out there right now and renew my faith in you! Get in touch with your inner-Koala!
By the way, my latest blog in no way applies to you. You do walk the walk, so you may feel free to talk the talk.
And thanks for mentioning my blog so nicely. I’m actually always a little at a loss on how to accept such fulsome praise other than to say Thank you.
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Jack Payne Says:
14 May 2008 at 8:22 pm.
Walrus spanking? Talkathons? I envy you, Robin, you took a leaf from the old Seinfeld TV show and made it into a reality. A story about “nothing” so beautifully told that one can only yearn for an equal level of satisfaction and contentment, as a direct result of doing the same.
You are a master of wordsmithery. I trust your agent is out hustling your book. About time this talent paid off for you.
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Mary Says:
14 May 2008 at 9:49 pm.
Hi Rob,
This comment is unrelated. I’ve created several posts about the Polar Bears on the endangered Species. One of the most fun is on http://www.squidoo.com/polarebearsnow Please share this with others. Ideas needed. Actions needed. Thanks, Mary MacIntyre
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caladohelena Says:
15 May 2008 at 1:50 am.
I love your blog and your adventures.
In fact I feel envy, since it was one of my dreams to walk and see such wonders.
The photos are also lovely and I have to give congratulations for the articles and effort.
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Scott Carlin Says:
15 May 2008 at 10:10 am.
Robin, you truly have a gift with words. What I found so striking about this post is that although you wrote about normal, everyday events, you did so in a way that made it a joy to read. Much like what you are writing about, how the ordinary day can be in fact quite remarkable if you are open to it. Wonderful, as always!
Oh, and Walrus Spanking!?
HA! I’m off to go give it a try now – sounds like good fun!
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Mark - Creative Journey Cafe Says:
15 May 2008 at 12:12 pm.
Robin – you are awesome. I enjoyed reading this very much. I love that you call your partner “my sweetheart”. That is so touching. Your spirit radiates. Bravo!
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Nards Says:
15 May 2008 at 1:57 pm.
Ah…Robin this is truly a place of peace. I read the posts above me and recognize many friends who I have met along the way during my blogging journey. Liz, Marlene and Jack have been with me from the very beginning. It feels like some sort of weird “off to see the wizard” on the way to Oz trip for me. I am on a spiritual journey and am connecting with a new friend at each turn. Thanks for “walking” with me – Nards
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Sandpiper Says:
15 May 2008 at 3:44 pm.
What a wonderful day! Those are the best kind of days.
It doesn’t matter what day of the week it is, I’m up before the sun rises, even if that means 4:30 am. It’s my favorite time of the day, so I can relate to the disappointed feeling of missing a sunrise.
I stopped working when I moved back to Connecticut and when people asked “What do you do?” they made me feel uncomfortable… as if it were a terrible thing to not be working anymore. I learned to say that I retired early and that seemed okay. Somehow when I told them I enjoyed my life and getting out into nature, they looked at me like something was wrong with me. I wish I had thought of spanking walruses years ago! I love it and would have loved seeing their faces. 
I love this post! It’s warm, witty, funny, delightful, and touching. The photos are GORGEOUS! The links you chose are wonderful! Thanks for sharing.
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Lilly Says:
16 May 2008 at 3:24 am.
I loved the ‘spanking walruses’ concept. And I loved your beautiful story about finding the extraordinary in the ordinary. Somehow your extraordinary day of walrus spanking, apple pie, and running free into the sunset sounds perfect. Thanks indeed for sharing the good stuff!
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OutdoorsBlogger Says:
16 May 2008 at 8:34 am.
That may be the best (funniest) title I’ve ever seen. Kudos.
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Theresa111 Says:
17 May 2008 at 10:19 am.
What a splendid way to commune with someone. Talk and Listen. I shall certainly utilize this method for I can see it will be an improvement for many conversations.
I so like the photography and the especially the one of the bird on your finger. They must trust you to do this. Being an animal and nature lover, I will give you an A+. You write beautifully. Never stop doing whatever makes you feel whole.
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Graham Says:
17 May 2008 at 12:22 pm.
Such a warm post… it made me smile from beginning to end. Dearest Robin, I hope you have many many more wonderful days like you did on this day.
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Sandra Says:
18 May 2008 at 3:20 pm.
The Jamaican comedian Oliver Samuels in one of his skits is meeting with his girlfriend’s parents for the first time. When the father asks him what he does for a living, he replies same as you. The father says oh you are in construction. He says no you asked me what I do for a living: Eat, Sleep, and Give Thanks. That comment has stuck with me and now I often reply with that. 
Peace.
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Argos Says:
19 May 2008 at 3:47 am.
You’re blessed Robin. If I happen to find more people like you around, I might start thinking that the world is not what I sometimes think it is but instead a place where we are able to find what we truly need to live a complete life.
That’s what I call a perfect day. A day in which one couldn’t have done or thought to do anything better. Hope you have a looooooots more days like that one.
Take care! (^ ^)/
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David Says:
19 May 2008 at 8:24 am.
Just wanted to say Hi. And I liked hearing someone else talk with such open affection for their partner. Sometimes I feel uncomfortable when I do.
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brainteaser Says:
21 May 2008 at 9:27 am.
Even your “ORDINARY” day sounds great. I completely agree with your last line: Life is astounding when we see the extraordinary in the ordinary.
Hmmm… I also like how you and your sweetie spend your Sunday — just to be there and listen and talk, just to laugh together, and so on. Those things seem ordinary, but those are the kind of moments that usually stick to my mind. .
Me and the love of my life also dream of the same, to just cuddle on the couch some special hour during the day. At the moment, it’s not possible because we live continents apart. But soon…. I hope. I ought to learn to simply listen when he talks, though. There are times when I catch myself cutting him off. I know it’s impolite and I’m hoping to shake off that bad trait soon.
Thanks again for sharing, Robin.
Looking forward to your next post!
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Adam Paul Says:
21 May 2008 at 8:52 pm.
Walrus spanking – I love it! I think it’s wonderful that you two make the time to speak and listen – so few do (and I’m certainly not as good at either half of that as I could be myself!). Your evocative description of your walk up a hill really makes me want to get out right now, nevermind that it’s 9pm and dark and in the city
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soulMerlin Says:
28 May 2008 at 10:00 am.
beautiful writing about a richness of life. your environment is rather different from mine, but they are all part of the wonder and the mystery of being alive. I am rather old now and therefore I notice how an appreciation of nature has grown in me – good for you that you feel and live it while you are still young……one question – why so much survival gear for a trip to your husband’s college? does he have a bad sense of direction, or is the car liable to break down?
x
henry
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Robin Easton Says:
28 May 2008 at 10:43 am.
@ SOULMERLIN: I wondered when someone would ask about that. I realized after writing this post that I had said that and not explained it. Good for you my friend! I take a little day pack with me everywhere I go with my camera gear in it and often any quickie drives that I’ve saved photos or writing on so if the house burned down I wouldn’t lose my work. (I know, I know, but I had that happen to a couple of writer friends when their homes burned during the severe drought here in the Southwest (a few years ago) and the only copy of their book was on their hard drive – lost everything…hence my saved writing I now keep a copy at my sweetheart’s office or with a friend, but even they have lost them at times, soooo hence the copy in my pack.) And since I also take the same pack hiking I always have wax dipped matches, lighter, sawyer extractor (it’s a snakebite kit for pit vipers – rattlesnakes, black widows, brown recluse, etc.) Swiss army knife, compass, magnifying glass (fire starter if sunny), flint, mirror, mini rain poncho, protein bar or two, high tensile cord, and sometimes a microlight tarp. It all fits in a small space in my pack along with an extra fleece, wool cap and gloves. I just got tired of taking all that stuff in and out when I wasn’t hiking, so I ended up leaving it in there, along with spare camera batteries and camera cards, etc. I think part of it is that old habits die hard. In the rainforest I always carried a fanny pack with similar things and I just became so used to doing it that I never stopped. There have been a few times I was glad I did. I’ve never been much of a purse lady, although I do clean up pretty good when necessary!!! Sometime I’ll have to post a picture of me in more “normal-type” ladies attire. I greatly enjoyed your question! How fun!
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soulMerlin Says:
28 May 2008 at 11:04 am.
that’s great ~ thanks Robin! you sound so organised and you make it fun. I am perhaps the most disorganised person I know…..I slept in last monday before taking a flight to Aberdeen. I had a breakneck rush to the airport and no time to pack anything. I arrived in Aberdeen with just the things I really needed (laptop, camera, wifi dongle,) and re-kitted myself out from charity shops (jeans shirt shoes) and bought a toothbrush and comb……..sometimes I like to see just how little I need (but then I spend most of my time in a ‘safe’ environment) However your response does show just how much you love your life
x
henry
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libelula Says:
1 June 2008 at 9:28 am.
I loved reading about your day…I love to share the simple everyday with my love. We spend so much of our relationship thousands of miles apart where daily contact is simply not an option, and when we are together it is always tempting to run around manic–doing allthethingswelovetodoallatthesametime… The best days we spend are where we just relax and go about real life together, even if it’s not always glamorous or activity-filled.
Thank you.
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