After starting a load of laundry I pulled out a few versatile pieces from my closet and set them on the couch. Then I flitted about my office, grabbing this and that. A book I needed to read for review. The vitamin C that was a must-have as I fight off my cold. My computer and cord.

I stopped and looked at the small computer bag in front of me. Did I really want to take it? Yes, I did. But would that be the best use of my time? Setting aside the decision for the moment I went back to the rest of my packing.

Not long ago it was unheard of for me to leave the house for more than a few hours without my computer. What if inspiration struck? What if it didn’t strike but I had a few minutes to work on my book? Perish the thought of being *able* to work on writing but not have the equipment to do so.

The first time I ever went anywhere without my computer in AGES was when I want to Africa in 2015 for two weeks. I determined not to take my computer and not to get internet on my phone. It was lovely. I was able to focus, abide, and simply soak in every small and every huge moment.

The second time I went without my computer was last year when I was in Mexico and my computer was stolen while I was on vacation with my family. Nothing like having a forced break from writing, you know? But do you know what stands out in my mind? The lovely rest I got because I couldn’t work. And, well, also how utterly delightful it was to go through airport security without having to wrestle my computer out of my already-too-stuffed backpack.

Since then there have been several trips where I opt out of bring my computer along. That way I never have to decide if I should be working on it or focusing on other things, because I can’t work on it.

I was nearly ready to take my stuff out to the car when I gave the small gray computer bag one last look. Going over and taking out the few items that I had stashed in the zippered compartment, I stuffed them into my clothes bag, then resolutely set the computer bag aside. I could handle one weekend without working on my writing. And besides, I could always blog on my phone, right?

What I Listened to While Blogging: A fan blowing

Where I Blogged: Sitting on the floor with my back against the wall at a friend’s house in PA.

Random Fact: Last night was the first night of the mission’s conference I’m attending and I was shocked by the sheer number of people I knew.

Question of the Day: What is something you always take when you travel?