If sucky things can happen the day before a vacation, they will.

People monopolized the washing machine last night. Did they not smell the mildewy smell in the hallway from the soggy things that require washing?

Last night the iPod broke. It’s under warranty, so I should be fine. But the store I bought it from had no time for me today. Luckily there’s another Metro-accessible store where I was able to make an 8 p.m. appointment. Keep your fingers crossed that I leave the store with a working iPod.

I had a four-hour meeting today. And another phone meeting in 20 minutes. There are still four other things on my work to-do list.

I need to do laundry — and have it dry. I need to pack.

I need to decide on books and knitting projects to take with me. These are important choices with two cross-country flights in the plan. What if I don’t like the first book? I only have 130 pages left in the book I’m currently reading. Do I leave it behind in favor of a book I haven’t started yet. Should I bring the tank top? Or start Rudi’s other sock? Should I forego taking a shawl and bring the shawl that’s sitting on my needles with the idea that I’ll definitely finish it if I need to wear it on Saturday night?

Ack! Ack! Ack!

I need to remember to breathe…