It is a bit odd staying in hotel in my own hometown, but since we didn’t get finished with sessions last night until nine it makes more sense to stay at the conference hotel versus going back home each night and heading back over in the morning. It is also nice to be able to enjoy a drink with dinner. If I were commuting I wouldn’t drink a drop.

I have a hard and fast rule – If I am driving I will not drink. Period. Some may think my rule is a bit extreme, but my reasons are good.

I am what people would describe as petite, therefore alcohol impacts me more than the average-sized person. As a single mom I can’t do anything that could possibly put my family in a precarious situation. Additionally, as an educator and especially as an administrator my life is under the microscope more than the average citizen.

The worst case scenario is that I would get a DUI. If I got a DUI, I would lose my job because I would no longer be considered a good role model. If I lost my job, I would no longer be able to provide for my family. If I lost my job, I could then possibly lose custody of my son.

Is this a bit extreme? Maybe, but have y’all checked out the laws recently?

I enjoy a glass of wine as much as the next person, but it is not worth the risk.