In which there’s travel! And I repeat myself!

Going to see Amma in D.C. this weekend! Jai Ma! It’s the most wonderful time of the year!

I think this is my twentieth year in a row going to see Her, which is astonishing and weird.

Staying in a Marriott. My man decided not to come this year, so I have a hotel room all to myself. I don’t think I’ve ever stayed in a hotel alone before, seems so absurdly decadent! (I posted repeatedly on the Travel Exchange for a roommate but although I got two inquiries, both devotees found other lodgings.) I can afford the room on my own without someone to share with, but it’s a lot of money.

I feel, I think, guilty about the expense, like it’s a needless waste or I don’t deserve it, but I so prefer staying in the program hotel rather than finding something cheaper elsewhere and walking or trying to arrange rides or cabs or shuttles back and forth. I also decided to stay an extra night so that I can stay up all night for Devi Bhava and then sleep all the next day, rather than going home flat exhausted and fuzzy like I always have before. So, a room alone, and an extra, not-technically-necessary night. Wow.

Expect I’ll feel somewhat lonely, as I don’t really know any D.C. devotees, or really many devotees at all any more, so unless I make a new friend I’ll likely just sit alone.

Oh, well, better for meditation, I guess.

I intend to spend every possible moment in the program hall; maybe do some kitchen seva. Have to remember to take closed shoes for that.

Have plans to see VUBOQ on that last, extra evening, for drinks or dinner! So excited!

Then a flight back the next morning, home, and back to work that evening.

I did something absurd and bought a white dress. It’s the same style as a dress I already have, so I know it’s comfortable and I’ll love it, but me in white is ridiculous because I’ll stain it immediately. But it’ll be fun to wear in the darshan hall, as I never wear any of my old white saris or skirts or punjabis anymore, and I got it for free with credit card points. I don’t have a white slip, but I do have a gray one I think will work even if it shows through some as I’ll wear it with a gray dupatta scarf. My flight is discount, so I have to check my bag, so I bought a set of clear zip pouches for toiletries, too.

I’m still technically poor, but I feel terribly extravagant about my upcoming vacation!

Now I need to go throw in a load of laundry and find my suitcase.

Update: I got a roommate after all! Hope she’s not insane!