June 18...Where is Josh?

Still in T&C, no internet access. It's the end of the day--a glorious sunny paradise kind of day--filled with poolside lounging, tropical drinks in the pool at the swim-up bar, water aerobics (it wasn't a day completely devoid of healthful activity), and always food and more food. Jerk chicken, flan, watermelon and mangos, smoothies, chocolate croissants. And don't get me started on the dinner at the fine french restaurant on the premises, Le Petit Chateau.

One thing happened today to give me pause, however. Josh, at 11, has been given a wide berth here. He had the place completely mapped out on day one, and there's no concern of him getting lost. He checks in with us regularly, whereever we are.

But today, after hanging with us at the pool, he left abruptly, leaving his ballcap and glasses behind. After an hour or so, we looked for him. After two hours, we couldn't find him. I returned to the room to shower, while Jon set out in earnest to locate the boy.

For the 20 minutes he was gone, all manner of nightmarish scenarios played out in my head. Madeleine McCann. Natalie Holloway. Creeps. Pedophiles. Nancy Grace. Oprah. Where could he be? Why didn't he take his glasses? Were we too lax? Am I overreacting? Underreacting? We're not in the U.S. Are we protected?

Jon returned with Josh shortly. He sheepishly explained he'd gone to a different part of the beach without telling us. He was sunburnt, and had a great time.

Oh the trials of parenthood. They say "Mom, you worry too much." I think, wait until you have kids. You'll see.