butterflies

 

Heading to Tampa for Advanced Placement exam reading. I was drafted in the first round (I didn't know this was a thing, but according to the FaceBook group, it is a big deal).  I've done readings for the past few years, but due to Covid, it's been at home so this is my first opportunity to be on-site.  I don't really know what to expect.  And I don't know what questions to ask the FB group--mostly I was interested in how people dress and what the temperature is in the convention center.  There will be thousands of us reading.  I'm excited and anxious.

I haven't flown since April 2001, when I went to Washington, DC.  So I haven't had to go through TSA or follow any Covid precautions when traveling.  I'm not nervous about them, I don't want to be slow going or hold anyone up.  

When I've mentioned I'm going on a business trip, people assume I'll have the weekend off or will have opportunities to sightsee.  But our day begins at 7 and ends at 5, with evening activities until 8 or 9, every single day.  So it's an intense schedule.  I might manage to sneak off some evening.  I'm mindful of needing my downtime, so I've mentally prepared myself for that.

I packed and re-packed my suitcase and I think I'm down to necessities and not overpacking like I typically do.  I packed and re-packed my carry-on.  I've downloaded the apps I need and set them up.  

I'm ready for take-off.  At 4:45 am.