{{{Shir}}} Good to see you.

I've been thinking of you a lot because I just learned about Jerusalem Syndrome and I'm so incredulous I keep trying different sources so I've been seeing lots of pictures of Israel. So... ever see people wandering around in togas spouting bible verses?

Good to be here, Laga. I do miss it here. Most times I try to come back, and giving up after 15 minutes of reading (with googling, trying to understand some terms, history and facts to dive into the conversation) because I'm too tired of my day to think in proper English.

And yes, Jerusalem Syndrome is real. Seen three up to this day, and saw a documentary featuring another one. Poor folks. I mean, once they're at the Knesset it's all perfectly OK to act like this and most people won't call you insane, but not if you're poor and on the street.

Shir!!

Yes, some down-time between the BA and grad school is a GOOD IDEA.

As is the idea of travel. Um. International travel? Remember, KC is in the middle of the country -- a great layover place. Ahem.

Erin!

If my plan will work, I'm thinking of a U.S. tour, yes. But plan should work before I'll get too dreamy on this.

And Pasadena is an excellent getaway--mountains! Palm trees! And the ocean not that far away! And cute pets! Oh, and us.

{{Pix}}

You're feeling any better?

And there's Arizona! You have to come see the Grand Canyon just to say you did, right?

But I was already in Arizona and I saw the Grand Canyon (my aunt lives in Sedona)! I remember the look of disappointment over the tour guide's face when I didn't seem so excited about it. I then explained him that I've been living for 4 years next to Makhtesh Ramon, and while it's a absolutely, without a doubt, a bigger hole in the ground, I still prefer my own Makhtesh.
Don't get me wrong: it was pretty and impressive. But I wasn't going to fake an orgasm over it.

As for American Buffista Tour (again, if it'll happen): I'll come to wherever time and money will allow. I do wish to see you all, but I don't think I'll be able to do it without spending most of it on planes and buses.

We just booked a very last minute vacation for the weekend, as in we're leaving in an hour. I'm trying not to panic about forgetting things. It's been a long week with the wake and funeral and so much family together time. It will be good to just get away and be alone for a couple of days.

sj, take a breath, make a list of any things you can't afford to buy on the road if you forget them. Then once those things are packed you can relax.