Holli, is there any way on earth I can soothe their souls by presenting them with a stolid middle-aged writer lady, who is herself the mother of a twentysomething daughter?

And if that doesn't work, will telling your dad about my rock and roll past soothe his worried heart?

Because I'm totally willing, if needed.

I too am a solid middle-aged person. I have my own business. I've had extensive background checks. I only own a small axe.

Maybe you can also tell them that I won't be there, Holli.

I can't think why I was worrying about which sweater to bring -

Same reason I was thinking I should bring my leather jacket, so I can stay warm when the sun goes down - we're Californians, and thus have a skewed idea of what weather is supposed to be like.

I will grudgingly leave my leather at home, and thus not sweat like a dog.

DO NOT FORGET TIARAS, CROWNS, ETC!! PACK THEM NOW!!

Oooh! Thanks for reminding me.

Though if I don't get a few obscene phone calls I might be upset.

This, too, can be accommodated.

Maybe you can also tell them that I won't be there, Holli.

This, my love, is not a plus.

My parents are (STILL!) afraid I'll be axe murdered, so they insisted I bring a friend. So it'll be a double homicide, I guess.

Oh, sure! We can kill both of you, if it will soothe your parents' concerns.

This, my love, is not a plus.

heartily seconded!!!

Oh, sure! We can kill both of you, if it will soothe your parents' concerns.

See, this is why Sean makes such a good indentured Sherpa. He's very accomodating, he is.

Just make sure you pack the axe in your checked luggage and call it "sports equipment" if anyone asks.

Holli, do you want to be "Holli" on your nametag? And how about your friend's name, for his/her/its nametag?

I will grudgingly leave my leather at home

Dude, the pants are HOTT, but they'd also be hot. And heatstroke really cuts into the time allotted for merriment.