LnR 122 (Casual Language) Insomnia (Replay)

Hi! Like most smart Americans, I'm staying at home most of the time, just going out to run errands for my mother or go shopping. I live in a small town that has only had five cases of COVID-19. I wear a mask when I go out, but most people don't. I want to be extra-careful because I live with my mother, who is 84. Today's podcast episode is from 2 1/2 years ago, talking about when I went home for the summer. Of course, my life is different now. I live at home full time!

LnR 122 (Casual Language) Insomnia

A: Hey, are you OK?

B: Yeah, so-so. I'm having trouble sleeping.

A: Oh, I've had insomnia before. It wasn't fun.

B: I seldom have insomnia. I mainly get it if I'm worried about something or if I've had too much caffeine.

A: Yeah, I get it when I'm worried or have a lot of stress. So why do you have it now?

B: Actually, it's jet lag, not true insomnia. I arrived from China three days ago and still haven't adapted to the time zone here. I can't get to sleep until very early in the morning, and then I’m so tired that I take a long nap in the afternoon. Which, of course, makes it harder to get to sleep at night. It's a vicious circle.

A: Oh, I see. That's too bad. But you'll get over it soon, right?

B: Yeah, in a few days. I'm glad to be back, though. It's always good to be home.

A: What do you miss the most when you're in China? Your mother?

B: I call my mother twice a week, so I can't really say that I miss her. What I miss the most are milkshakes and Mexican food. And driving. I really enjoy driving when I'm back home.

A: You don't drive in China?

B: Are you kidding!? First of all, I don't have enough money for a car. Second, I don't need a car because I live on campus and almost everything I need is close to me. And finally, I'd be too afraid to drive in China!

A: But you drove when you lived in Mexico.

B: I was younger then. I'm not as brave now.