This week Erin will be traveling through Northern Ohio for a series of meetings with new and established Advisory Boards, a conference for the Ohio Student Education Association, and a Meet and Greet at The Ohio State University.

Day One:

6:15 am: I’m awake before the alarm, probably from fear of subconsciously turning off the alarm in my sleep and missing the morning flight entirely (a recurring nightmare of mine). I’m normally a fairly light packer, but the combination of packing when tired, and trying to predict the volatile spring weather of Ohio has led to very full bags. At least I’ll be prepared.

 
9:30 am: I have the cable for my computer, the cord for my ipod, and another one for my digital camera. I’ve walked off without the charger for my cell phone… I always knew this was going to happen one day!
 

10:30 am: I’ve landed in Cleveland to surprisingly warm temperatures and blue skies. Enterprise Rental Car is out of cars, apparently due to the American Airline fiasco, and offers me a SUV. The vehicle is really nice, but anyone who has seen my parking skills would agree that I could benefit from a small car. On the bright side, I could pick up a stranded soccer team if need be.
 

4:00 pm:  Down to work!  I had a great meeting with the Campus Advisory Board at Walsh University.  The founding members of First Book- Walsh University graduated last year, so an alumna returned to offer her insights and support for this year’s group.  I am really looking forward to seeing the group transition and grow in the upcoming year.   
 

6:00 pm: Back to the airport for a more “Erin- sized” vehicle. I am on the road again with a slick VW Jetta and life is good!
 

8:00 pm: Baldwin-Wallace College is the home to one of our newest Campus Advisory Boards, and I am thrilled to meet Jessica and Colleen for coffee and get to know them better. The Board is planning a Speed Read this Saturday, so we go over last minute details and discuss plans for next year.  At First Book we are constantly creating new materials and resources for our Boards.  I always enjoy being on the road and introducing the volunteers to these materials, including our local Advisory Board websites, an online bulletin board, and our fundraising materials. 
 

9:30 pm:  On the road again, with the latte kicking in.  My parents live only 20 miles away from tomorrow’s early morning meeting, so I am putting in the extra miles for the comfort of a familiar bed and my Mom’s pecan rolls in the morning.  Trust me, it’ll be worth it. 
 

10:30 pm: Turning the corner onto my parent’s street. The porch light is on and inviting.  I am done with a busy, but successful day.