I’m back from a wonderful couple of weeks up at the cottage. It was kind of cool as the mix of people kept changing every few days, so the dynamics kept changing. I managed to get in a number of good bike rides with my eldest son. It was his first “real biking” experience and he did very well. Although his pre-trip protests were mounting as the vacation progressed. “We’re going how far today?” The fact that several days involved biking at least partially in the rain may not have helped that, but on those days it was still good to get out of the cottage. There were some good swimming and sunning days on the boat, and several of us managed to be sporting various shades of pink skin by the end. There was loads of good eating, and of course there was lots and lots of card playing, culminating in the group Euchre tournament where Grandpa, in typical fashion, kicked everyone’s butts.

It was such a good time in fact, that the universe apparently did not wish me to come home. Whereby the curse began. All loaded up to leave, as we pulled out of the driveway my front wheel bearing gave a mighty and unhealthy howl. After futzing with it a bit, it seemed to be free enough to make the trip so we limped on home. The Gods were not pleased.

Since then, I’ve lost a video card out of one computer, a wireless network adapter out of another, and my bike computer (apparently protesting being home as well) died. While I tend not to be too superstitious, I’m plagued by this notion of bad things happening in threes. But that’s three things, so I’m done, right? Well, unless you count the truck, but I think that was just a warning to stay on vacation so it doesn’t count… does it?

I can’t be sure, so I’m treading about the house with trepidation expecting every device to pretty much melt down upon my arrival. Just in case, it would be best to avoid me for a few days… you know, to be on the safe side.