Sometimes, I don’t get the energy or time to write to you, loyal reader, and I have mentioned this time and time again, but still feel bad about it. I honestly am only cheating myself, as I’m keeping this online journal for my own sanity and, of course, memories.

I’ve just discovered ‘Anchor’ a platform for making podcasts ON THIS BLOG, which is super exciting and helpful if I’m too tired to type. Let me know which “episodes” (blog posts) you’d like to hear on audio and I will see if I can record a few new stories too. Might be an interesting project.

So. on the topic of me.

I went to visit my little sister just outside of Boston, over Labor Day weekend. I didn’t even bring a computer, I was that much on a vacation. I finished up my notes before I left on Friday, and didn’t have to worry about work (mostly) for the entire trip. I say mostly, only because I still checked my work emails and the work chat, which is codependent and not great boundary setting. I tease, I tease, but honestly, you need to get any from work sometimes. Especially in my industry, there’s a LOT of burnout. It was something I talked about with my supervisor, often, at my first two jobs post graduation. It still stresses me out.

Anyway, getting back to the topic of my vacation with my sister, I spent minimal time worrying about work, and I was happy with that. It was so nice to see her and her animals and her very pretty house, she really puts together a lovely home. Her last place in New Orleans was also beautifully decorated; both have great art on the walls, unique and elegant furniture, an amazing cozy couch, a nicely set up kitchen, and very cool design and decor details. She really knows how to make her space warm and welcoming, and so serene. She also has a huge backyard and deck with grill, chairs, and an outdoor sofa/futon thing that is so nice for coffee in the morning.

Her cat died quite suddenly this summer, which broke my heart. What makes me happy is her two new kittens, named after subatomic particles. Her dog, who’s got to be over 10 now, is also doing good, and it’s alway great to see her. She’s half French bulldog, basically a baby bat with a barrel chest and very emotive eyes. She’s around 20 lbs, same as Oscar, but totally different style of little dog. I adore her.

We went to the beach on the Saturday before Labor Day, which is what everyone else decided to do too. We listened to true crime podcasts and made our way through a few tangles of traffic, but the ride was pleasant and the ocean was worth it. We brought the pup and a blanket, and made our way down some seriously steep stairs to the beach. It was a bit rocky, so we kept on our sandals and searched for seagrass and shells. I finally took off my shoes and made my way to the water’s edge. I stood in the water to my calves, and let myself sink in the sand with the waves on my legs.

After the beach, we went to a supposedly famous, very popular restaurant. I waited in line, halfway down the block, while she and the pup grabbed us an outdoor table. Once inside, I got her sweet potato fries and a lobster roll. I ordered fried oysters, the house specialty. When they called my number, they handed me my food, and the lady behind the counter gave me two extra paper bowls to cover our food. “since you’re sitting outside.” she explained, “Seagulls.” I took our food outside without getting attacked by birds, but apparently it happens.

We ate outside and I discovered that fried oysters are just fine, but fairly forgettable. The lobster roll was pretty tasty, although I don’t swear by it as *The Best Food Ever* as it was explained to me in the past.

I really don’t want to cut this short, but next blog I’ll tell you all about Salem, MA and the witch tour. Tonight, I’m fading fast.

Good evening and hopefully, it won’t be long before I write, again. To be continued!