Also, if you choose to 'close' your account, and leave your posts. If you re-register later with the same email address, your same account will be re-opened and your posts will be re-assigned to you. (At least, thats how I think it works, I could be wrong).
I still think you should leave your account as is, ans just take a few weeks vacation form the site. -- It's advice I need to follow myself. (If you've been reading some of my rantings lately.)