Don't You Know I Remember Everything
In which Matt tries something new!
Hey, everybody.
The time has come—I’m at Lake Erie Yearly Meeting, and I’m excited (though also slightly concerned). I made it down to Ashland University and checked in, then headed to my hotel to chill out (literally) and rest. I could have had the entire experience if I stayed in the dorms with lots of other folks, but I’m really glad I opted not to do that. I just get exhausted so much more quickly now than I did just a few months ago, and I need a lot more down time by myself than in the past. I need to keep telling myself that I probably have tons of years to experience this event (though nothing is certain), so I can always do what I can manage and do it differently next year.
I checked in and a friend from Ann Arbor suggested that I join everyone for supper tonight, and I let them know that I’ll be back later but probably will just eat on my own. It’s hard to articulate just how tired contact with other people can make me now. If I offend anyone this weekend by not seeming to be interested in hanging out, I promise it’s not you—I am just far from being “myself”, though maybe this is just who I’ll always be. Who knows. It’s early days still.
Tonight is the orientation for folks who haven’t ever been at the Yearly Meeting, followed by a welcome and introductory session. Pretty laid-back, I suspect (which is what I need anyway). Tomorrow and Saturday have a lot more going on.
On my way down to Ashland, I made a couple of stops. First was at Black Cat Books & Oddities, an incredible bookstore that’s situated in two different houses and has a ton of themed rooms. They have a tree, and a life-size Frankenstein’s monster! I found a signed copy of a book that I’ve wanted anyway, in addition to some puzzle zines from a local Cleveland author which I’m really excited about.
After that, I went to Sweets & Geeks, the coolest candy and nerd stuff store ever. It was really something special. It just kept going on and on, too. Believe me, when I tell you that their candy selection was amazing, it was amazing. I got a few weird things to try out (yes, including some Squashies).
The solitude was really great on the way down—listening to an audiobook as well as some great music, enjoying the new car, and loving the drive. I’m hopeful that the sessions tonight will be nice and that I won’t get more worn out than I can handle. Wish me luck!
XOXO,
Matt