August, 20th:
Up betimes and to my bank, there to settle things about my return to England later this month. I was told that my account will be closed on the day I request it, and so I shall leave it for a few days, rather than carry my money around, which I fear, would put me quite in danger of losing it all. Then back home for a little something to eat before I, took a bus, to Manhattan. Alighted at 34th Street and to a mall that I never even realised existed before this day! Here, and then to Macy's, to buy a few things for my colleagues, with a mind to give as gifts upon my leaving work at the College this coming Friday. With time before the shops closed, I to Zara, where I was so taken by a jacket in the window, that I had to have it for myself, which I did presently buy. I am very pleased with this new season's fashions, they seem, in my mind at least, to be based on the style of the 16th, and maybe 17th, centuries. My new jacket is very much in this style, I like to think it is something that Samuel Pepys himself might have worn, but I think that this is just a fancy of mine, and yet it pleases me greatly to think of it. I then walked up 5th Avenue, despite it being quite humid, and to H&M. I had a hope of purchasing some more things in this new fashion, namely some pantaloons, and while they did have quite a few clothes in this style there were no pantaloons; I must have been mistaken to see them in the window. Yet, I was greatly happy to see that many of the skirts did fit me, and so did please myself with buying two, one of which I have a mind to wear to my friend Claire's wedding, and I will do so. Finally to another shop to buy more parting gifts for my colleagues before taking a bus home. I had a quick supper of some cold things and read a little of Magic Knight Rayearth, then to shower and to bed.

August, 21st (Lord's Day):
Lay long in bed this morning, though I had not planned on it! I worry a little that I am becoming more slothful, but I have had very little sleep of late, so perhaps it is warranted. I up at 12 noon and busied myself with the trying on of my new clothes. I see that I will have to buy some new boots, so as to go with one of the skirts, which does look funny without some, but this will have to wait until I return home. I am, as ever, pleased with my new jacket, and though I was a little unsure yesterday, I am now resolved to keep it. After lunch I recieved a phone call from my mother and father, and also my cousin Justin, and Charlotte, who were visiting with them, and we spoke a little. Then to the supermarket, where I bought some food for the coming week, and again home. Here I to read more of Magic Knight Rayearth and ate some supper. But lo! To see how little I have achieved all day! I am guilty to think of it. While I had not planned to go into work today, nor write any of my report, yet still I have done so little, when I could have spent my time drawing, or at the ironing of my clothes. There is little I can do about it now; I must endeavour to by more productive in the future.