Cons of school and life this term:

• the regular ferry is out, and the replacement takes only 32 cars. I have on some days missed my boats, both coming and going, when driving my car. The motorcycle would solve this, as bikes load first on all sailings.

• I was getting used to vacation schedule. Money coming in, not working . . . pretty nice. Reality, you are a harsh mistress.

• schlepping lots of stuff to and from school

• no more regular paychecks

• new instructors, new expectations, new grading schemes

• curtails my hiking schedule considerably!

• no more medical insurance; I purchased a flexible "catastrophic" policy

• the cost of gas and ferry tickets

• I think I've started having hot flashes

• my feet hurt from hiking with a 40-pound pack and perhaps inadequate arch support. I'll get SuperFeet or something.



Pros of same:

• back in the saddle again, I have a routine

• social interactions with people doing what I'm doing

• mental and physical challenge at an appropriate level

• Fridays off is still a bitchin' schedule!

• sushi at Sapporo, right by school

• access to cheaper gas and shopping off the island

• ability to work mornings or evenings

• Donkee has work for me, so I have fun money

• Donkee gave me a key to the urban sanctuary

• meds work!

• I have a renewed vigor and interest in outside activities. I want to go skiing this winter, maybe.

• the romantic life is quite lovely at the moment