I hate missing school. I just end up making up homework, missing important tests, and being completely confused when I return without the most recent notes.

Actually, the annoying part of missing school, specifically at Uni, starts at least two weeks before a vacation or any other anticipated absence because we have to:

• Step One: Print out an anticipated absence form.
• Step Two: Take it to Kovacs for a signature of approval.
• Step Three: Take it to every class for a signature from each teacher.
• Step Four: Take it to every class the next day because you forgot to get most of the signatures on the previous day.
• Step Five: Take it to the office.

Step four is often repeated at least four times. It is particularly difficult to remember to take the form to Kenney where we have PE, considering we don’t usually take our backpacks unless we are in a sport.

For all of Thanksgiving week, my parents and I are visiting my brother as well as my aunt, uncle, and cousin in Massachusetts. So, last week I began my absentee task. Surprisingly, I was able to get all of the signatures in about two days. That's probably because I had Doug sign my form right after he had his head shaved.

But now I’m worrying about missing two tests in two of my most difficult subjects.

However, I also know that while I’m in Boston, I’ll really enjoy my time off. At some point, I’ll be thinking to myself: It’s 11:23 and I’m just waking up. My poor classmates are sitting in their fourth-period classes, waiting with hollow stomachs for the bell to ring for lunch. I am SO lucky!

Of course, then my brain wanders back to all of those extra school responsibilities I’ll have when I return.

Overall, though, my vacation should be really fun! I love shopping at the mall in Boston, because they have some of my favorite stores, like Delia’s and Forever 21. Living in Champaign, I usually have to order items from these stores, and that means I can’t try anything on for approximately five to seven business days.

OK, now I’m super excited about shopping. I love missing school!