Tuesday, July 25, 2006

The Conference That Wasn't

I have had a rather horrible two days.

No, I'm not in Atlanta. I missed my 5:50 a.m. flight this morning - I was sleeping...because I was up until all hours of the night last night. No conference for me this year.

We had a family medical emergency - and in the interest of keeping some of my personal life "personal" (hard to do in blogland!), let's just say that a close family member ended up in the emergency room last night - and I had no choice but to stay home.

Funny - the last few days, I kept having this niggling feeling that I wasn't going to Atlanta. I tried to ignore it when I got sick with my allergies or cold or whatever it is (and I'm still breathing through a half-open sinus right now and I have another headache). I also tried to ignore it when I myself had to make an urgent visit to my own doctor.

But last night's ER visit pretty much confirmed that I wasn't meant to go.

Strangely enough, I'm not devastated. Disappointed, yes. But I'm not tearing my hair out and screaming in frustration. Things happen. And that's just how life is.

I decided to still take these days off for my vacation - partly because I need to recover from the emotional trauma of the whole ER thing and partly because I need a break from work. My daughter and I went shopping tonight at the mall to get away for awhile and we had a great time. I'm also happy to report that the family member is hopefully on the mend - we should have some more answers soon.

I'm eager to read everyone's comments on Nationals - and I hope to make it next year!

But I now have an opportunity to get some great work done on my novel. Onward!

15 comments:

  1. I'm sorry, Melissa. I hope everything is okay.

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  2. Anonymous4:25 AM

    I'm so sorry, Melissa! Hugs, and I hope your family member gets better soon. Hang in there, okay?

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  3. OMG, I can't believe it! Look me up if you get a chance.

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  4. Anonymous6:42 AM

    Sorry to hear about your troubles, Melissa. I hope your family member is okay.
    Good attitude, btw!

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  5. Big hugs, Melissa. Hope your dear one is better soon. And glad you're taking the week off anyway - sounds like you need the time.

    More hugs.

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  6. Anonymous10:07 AM

    Hugs to you and your family, Melissa. I hope all is well soon. I can imagine how you would feel missing the conference. Take care and try to get some rest on your vacation.

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  7. Sorry to hear about the ER and not being able to go.

    I'm a selfish B*$^@. I would have still made my flight. But that's just me. Again, I'm selfish. Just ask my husband.

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  8. My thoughts are with you and your family, melissa.
    I hope everything works out well for you.
    You have a commendable attitude. Family should always come first.
    Good luck with everything.

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  9. (((Melissa))) I how they are OK. Use the time to chill. Literally!!!!

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  10. Thanks so much for the good wishes, everyone. I really do appreciate it. :-)

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  11. Big hugs, Melissa! So sorry about your trip. This life isn't for wimps, is it?

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  12. Sorry about your family member, but isn't life amazing when it gives you subtle hints that no indeed something will not be happening?

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  13. Mel, I hope your family member is doing better and on the mend. Hugs to you and your love ones.

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  14. Anonymous6:15 AM

    Enjoyed a lot! »

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