One for the Procrastination Files
I admit, I’m a procrastinator.
I make lists of things I need to do, think about how I’m going to do these things, worry about not getting all/some/none of these things done but, nevertheless, I will still put most things off until the last minute. Maybe I just work better under pressure. Maybe I secretly like having something to worry about. Maybe I’m just a lazy sloth.
Whatever the reason, I’ve learned it sometimes often pays to procrastinate.
I could list out example after example of when this course of action (or lack thereof) has played out in my favor but I’ll do that later. I’d rather tell you about my most recent payoff.
Four or five years ago I went to London for vacation. Upon returning I discovered 70 pounds worth of currency in my luggage. Mind you, London wasn’t cheap so I really wanted all the American dollars I could place my hands on even if it only demonstrated we’ve achieved nothing economically on the British despite gaining our independence. The pound was kicking the dollar’s ass. And I don’t mean in an even, fair street fight kind of way. It was more like the dollar was the fat kid in P.E. class competing against an Olympic athlete. Despite my desire for dollars I simply placed the pounds in a dresser drawer along with the best of intentions to get to the bank, someday.
Fast forward to 2009. The Man and I decided to jump across the pond again with some friends. Decisions, decisions…..what do I wear? what suitcase do I bring? how much money do I need? do we need a new digital camera? should I get pounds in advance or count on the ATM once I arrive?
Wait a minute……I already have 70 pounds ready to spend. Plenty to cover expenses until I can leisurely locate an ATM. Score one for procrastination.
I did, however, manage to get vacation pictures posted within a few weeks of returning. You can see them at http://www.amyland.org/flickr/album/72157619229551488/uk-2009.html.
Nothing more exciting than looking at someone else’s vacation photos.
Cheerio!
Comment by MO'B
I read this, enjoyed it, validated your effort, and wonder what the currency exchange rate actually worked out to had you cashed back and forth previously.
Posted on July 5, 2009 at 7:55 pm
Comment by amy
I like to think I broke even or even came out ahead seeing as I did not pay the fee to turn it from pounds to dollars and then pay a fee to get more pounds this time. Who knows? It’s numbers and I really can’t manage those.
Posted on July 12, 2009 at 8:04 pm