Packing for the beach

MY DEAR FRIEND ANN invited me to join her for a night and day at her sister's beach house on a nearby island. Could there be a more perfect way to usher in the school year? I can't think of one.

I have to admit I am approaching this trip with a bit of melancholy. I don't want summer break to end. It has been the most time off from grad school that I've had since I began in the spring of 2008.

Don't get me wrong: I enjoy school and I am passionate about the journey.

I'm tired. Plain and simple.

What I know is that everything is working out in just the way it needs to. I will relax into my new schedule just fine.

And once our toes step onto the sand, I will be grateful for the gift my friend is offering. I promise to stay in the moment.

~Ms. T. J.

Packing for the beach