I would like to think that it's the obligation to have fun I find depressing

Bingo - another reason why I not a party person, thanks for the insight

(Usually when trying to back up a boat trailer):

"Stupider people than me can do this."

Nothing's better than doing what you love - except, possibly, doing what you love on a beach, under an umbrella. If the whole world worked like that, there would be no war. Most people can't seem to summon the courage to work on a beach, but it's better that way: It wouldn't be any fun if everyone around you were working, too. And Garrison - God love ya - I dream about my work almost every night too, and I've been thinking it means I need to learn how to actually relax on vacation, rather than dreaming up new ways to perfect self-torment. You're the best we've got, when all of us need relaxation and dreamtime on our rainy drive home. Take a break and enjoy yourself. When vacations seem overly planned, it's time to call in sick. You deserve it.

As much as I like reading Garrison Keillor, and as much as his voice comes through in his writing, I want to hear his voice the minute I begin to read him. I don't just want it in my mind's ear, but actually flowing into my ears. Am I asking too much? I hope not.

I love you Garrison, but.... are you really trying to make us believe you didn't actully fly first class?

Enjoy your trip, you deserve it.

You may be right...I'm having a really hard time visualizing Garrison Keillor squished into that middle seat.

Enjoy your noontime darkness.

I am disappointed with the brevity of these articles. I was settling in for an extended, loquacious, mock-jaded travel log adventure, as only he can do, and...end of story. His books are a mixed bag, but he can be so very funny in the odd chapter.

At any rate, how cool it is that this proto-nerd is now an eclectic globetrotter. He is one of my heroes, as corny as that is.

I've been to Norway in the summer and it was magnificent. But who in the hell goes there in the winter? Only people from Minnesota, I'm guessing. Even us Texans -- no matter what horrible mistakes we make in sending people to the White House -- aren't that crazy. :-)