Let me explain...

When I was younger I read the poem "Annabel Lee" by Edgar Allen Poe. Love it or leave it, I loved it at the time. Maybe it was the idea of true love that Heaven envies, maybe it was just the name Annabel Lee (it rather rolls off the tongue, doesn't it?), but I loved this poem. And I probably would have forgotten about this poem (there are many things that attract the devotion of a tween, to be sure), but a memory sticks with me that will always endear this poem to me. When I disclosed how I loved this poem to a close friend, her reaction was a surprise. She was so condescending in her disapproval (can't remember why she despised the poem so much) that I think part of me vowed to love this poem forever, if not just because she told me it was stupid. And that situation and my reaction - to dig my feet in with stubborn rebellion - well, for better or for worse defines much of how I approach my strongest held beliefs. When I believe something to be true, opposition only solidifies my position. (Side note: recognizing this tendency in myself helps me empathize with people that hold beliefs I perceive as ridiculous.) Blame my Midwestern upbringing, my Capricorn horoscope, my German lineage, my amazing mom that showed me by example that anything is possible - they've all conspired to support my stubborn chin up approach and slight defiance to life as others tell me how it should be. Hence, Cabralee Down by the Sea.

But why Cabralee? Much easier to explain, really. My nickname growing up was "Goat" due to my maiden name. But why "goat reads" in Spanish? I have always tried to learn Spanish, I lived in Barcelona for a year, have many friends that speak Spanish (from all over the world), and therefore have a lifelong affinity for the Spanish language. It really is a romantic language and sounds so lovely to the ear. And, of course, I love to read. So there you have it - literally, "goat reads". Cabra lee. But put together, Cabralee, it sounds like Annabel Lee.

So all together it's a blend of my childhood nickname (inherently a nod to all the people in my life that I love - friends that speak Spanish, childhood friends, family, etc.), my love of reading, and honoring the idea that one should be true to one's beliefs in a somewhat covert manner. Rather perfect, no?

Everyone has thoughts to share that are worthy. I hope you find mine entertaining.