I began this post in a van with two kids, a wife, and a St. Bernard, on our way to Wisconsin, and am finishing it in my parent’s basement, not because I’m suddenly bankrupt, or anything, but because we owed them their yearly visit with the kids. We would normally fly but this time we wanted to bring Lola. That’s our St. Bernard.
What I learn on trips like these is they take at least three hours longer than you expect and cost twice as much. That’s when you’re traveling alone. Kids triple the cost and we are learning how a St. Bernard alters the expense account as well. The data is not looking good.
Roan (my son) has not stopped talking.
“Where’s Meara’s cracker, Mom?”
“She threw it on the ground, sweety.”
“Can you get it, Mom?”
“I’m driving, I can’t right now.”
“Can Daddy get it, Mom?”
“I don’t think he can, honey.”
“Can we get out and find it?”
“Yes, when we stop, we’ll get out and find it.”
“OK, Mom, that’s good.”
I have never known any boy or man who has taken such a venerable interest in the welfare of his sister. I can only conclude that he is interested in consuming the cracker himself once it is located–if it is ever located. The sister is a temporary (read: throwaway) object; merely a means to his own satisfaction.
The plan in Wisconsin is to take a week of mild leisure with some work. Having just restructured my business and launched my new Inner Circle (come check it out!), I could probably use a few days dedicated to self-rejuvenation. I will be exercising daily (see below) and enjoying plenty of walks. I will also be visiting old friends and celebrating my birthday at some point. I am not much for birthdays, unless of course they are my own.
Wisconsin is known for three things, in particular: Summerfest, an outrageous music festival where people drink copious amounts of pale lager and commit sins in portable restrooms, cheese curds, and the grocery store Brennan’s, which we happen to like. They give free samples, there. It’s nice.
At some point we are going to see a Chinese light show. I’ll keep you updated.
– Pat
Today’s Workout
200 push ups
100 jump squats
20 minute run