"Do not take a big trunk full of all the things you don't need." Etiquette. 1922

Ten to one Emily never had to pack for a mission trip on the other side of the world. I'm a home body, but every now and then I'll have a month or so of traveling every weekend. Ususally jet-setting off to chic places like Columbia, Atlanta, or various Christian retreat camps. I've become adept at tossing things into a bag and leaving on a moment's notice. However, I think I may have bitten off a little more than I can chew this summer. Here's the rundown:

Got back from Durham a week ago. Leaving for Columbia Thursday. Back Saturday. Atlanta Sunday to Monday. Manila...yeah, Manila...the following Monday. Get back from Manila with one day to unpack, clean clothes, kiss some babies, repack and head to NC for *hopefully* some R&R.

Are you exhausted? I am. And, to top it off, in true LOL form I have told everyone that my schedule is wide open because I won't be babysitting. Hence, I have volunteered at church, committed to dinners and lunches almost every day next week and told a boy I would cook for him. Why do I do this to me!?! You may want to stop by my apartment at some point to make sure I'm not sitting in a pile of shoes crying helplessly as I look on at a suitcase that won't zip up. Bring...um...chocolate milk* just in case.

Fondest Regards,

The Lady

Coffee free. Day 3. Life sucks a little bit right now as I have had a persistent headache since about 1 pm June 1, not-so-coincidentally the day I decided to begin my month sans coffee. Needless to say, I do not feel very leisahly at the moment. Why would any self-respecting LoL do this to herself?! I figured that with my trip to the Philippines looming, it would probably be wise to kick the addiction and face the withdrawals now as I do not know what the coffee situation will be. Severe headache+24 hours in a plane/bus+30 people I can't escape=headlines. I'm sure sure there will be coffee available, but I figured better safe than sorry, right?

Problem. This was the first week of summer vacation for my 6 year old charge. No headlines yet, but she does keep asking why Miss Daynes is so sleepy and doesn't feel like playing. At what age do kids just pick up a book and spend the whole day reading? Quietly?

On another note (which could possibly be related) I have not been to the gym this week. I thought about going a couple of times. At any rate, it is the thought that counts, so I guess, technically, I've been to the gym a couple of times this week.

I cannot wait until July 2 when, upon return, I will down the first cup of coffee I see. It will in no way help keep me awake I am sure. Until then, I will sleep soundly with the dreams of promised Fresh Market Summer Breeze coffee sipped on the deck of the beach house. Bliss.