I didn't disappear, although I've been away longer than usual. Sometimes there's just not much to say or I get busy. I have to pretend I have a life away from here. Kidding. I'm only 71% addicted, unlike Bon. I think she's 86%.

Crustybeef wrote the most amazing comment on my last post and I can't wait till Emily reads it. I also want Em to read some of the posts where people have written letters to their 13 year-old selves. It could put her perspective of 'I know everything now' in a different light. I'll make a confession, and you probably won't be surprised. I was a really good kid. I got along with everyone. I didn't rebel. Yes, I did some things my parents didn't know about, but luckily, I smartened up before it was too late. One of my biggest regrets is that I starting smoking at 17. Stupid. My parents smoked and I swore I never would. I mostly hid it for the almost 20 years I smoked---from clients, boyfriends, etc.. I led a double life. I was a good girl and that went against my 'image.' So, now, I'm dealing with an opinionated, very strong-willed daughter, and it ain't easy. She really is mostly all good, really.

So two guesses where I'm at? Panera's. I had their creamy vegetarian tomato soup with cheese croutons and a wedge of sourdough bread. I'm at my favorite location, in Laurel. I knew I'd be shopping at Sam's and Target and brought my laptop along just in case I wanted to eat and blog from here. Right. Just in case! This is the first time I've blogged during the lunch hour, and it's one hopping place. I think it's bigger than most of the locations, so I don't feel like I'm taking up valuable space. The Panera's in Bowie is much smaller and my mother and I often have to wait for a table.

Well, I better go before I wear out my welcome. Later!