Ugh. Well, I just found out why you're not supposed to eat sugar when you're in a stressful period. We went out to a gorgeous local United Church this morning, and after the service they served 'welcome back' cake. What harm can it do? I thought to myself. Within twenty minutes I had spun into a panic attack, hyperventilating and sitting on a nearby stairwell. There's my lesson for the day: no fucking sugar for the next little while.

It was a lovely morning, despite this unpleasant discovery. The church is a huge & oddly tasteful mix of bright colours and dignified dark wood. The preacher was very funny & bright. I was immediately comforted by her sermon, which concerned the anniversary of the WTC attacks. Afterwards we ate cake & looked at the broad range of programs and services on offer. Although we have two more United Churches in our neighbourhood, I have to say that this one is putting in a strong opening bid.

Yesterday afternoon my brother & father came to visit for a short while as Nic needed to buy a bus ticket to Vancouver. We all went to the bus terminal and then to Amatos for pizza slices. But before I could go for pizza, I had to buy my Fluevogs. So they let me off at the store, and I rushed in for the black Sheena's I've had my eye on. As I was walking down the street, I heard my name. It was St. Stephen & St. Jack in suits, biking their way to St. Pete's sister's wedding. It was the most charming thing I've seen in ages.

I like being back.

Today's stress-reduction initiatives: sleep, church, water, vitamins, meditation. We purchased camomile tea and an herbal sleep aid to see me through the evenings. Today's words are forgiveness, love and safe.