Here’s a fun one to try. On December 27th, a 21-year-old German woman who did not feel like going to work at a fast food restaurant apparently sent her parents a text message saying she had been kidnapped.

Now, I’ve often looked out the window on a cold December morning and thought to myself… “Wow, sure would be nice to stay in today.”

There are plenty of ways to get out of work. Everyone has performed the “Fake Sick Boogie” on the phone call to the boss. Please let it be voicemail… so they won’t ask any questions.

I’ve considered the “my car won’t start” line. I’ve worked wonders with the “my kids are sick and I need to stay here to take care of them” skit as well. Helps alleviate the pressure of faking the “still sick, but well enough to work today” drama that occurs when you do return to work.

But I can honestly say, I’ve never considered the “text message my loved ones claiming to be kidnapped” routine. Can be messy… what with the police and all. But when you do return to work you get to dazzle your co-workers with the tale of your MacGyver-like escape from the clutches of evil.

Remember. Self-inflicted Rope burns heal quickly but add that touch or realism most invesitagors are looking for. Details matter, you know.