No entries yesterday -- what kind of a blogger am I? That's for amateurs. Well, I confess to being a little strung-out, not on drugs, of course, but on exhaustion. I think I'm pushing myselft too hard and getting overwhelmed. I can't seem to say no to anyone or anything. I get an email and have to respond. I offer to do extra assignments at various workplaces. I come home from the 9-5 job and immediately go to the computer to try to do stuff for Philadelphia Weekly. It's too much. I'm breaking down. I have a cold and I can barely see straight. How many of you have sent me great tips for stories on this blog that I haven't posted? How many emails haven't I answered? You're just the tip of the iceberg.

The other night I was working on deadline on something for the paper that HAD TO BE DONE. And I realized: I can't jeopardize my health this way. I am taking some Benadryl, going to bed, and it will have to wait until tomorrow. Just making that decision -- and feeling like my life was my own, and that I was in control of it -- offered me immeasureable relief. My bed has never felt so comfortable. And I have to hand it to Benadryl: for a good night's sleep, you really can't beat it. Of course, your nose and mouth become dry and parched, but given my cold, that worked for me.

Here's something I'm reading when I have some down time. I recommend it.

If you're going through hell keep going