Relative Something

As of today, I am officially on vacation from the day-job. My ‘away notice’ has been programmed for the work email account, and I don’t plan to be back there until June 18. I found out yesterday that the onset of my vacation coincides with the school kids in my neighborhood, because yesterday was their last day of school. They are on vacation for the summer! Of course, that meant they could stay up late last night and party outside in the beautiful June night air.

I enjoyed hearing their laughter and mirth, because I wasn’t trying to sleep. I was staying up late to finish laundry, hunt for long-hidden items for camping, and generally preparing myself for this years’ bike trip. I am almost ready. The lawn is mowed, I got cash from the bank, and new batteries for my flashlight.

I have been slowly pulling out things I think will be coming with me, and they are strewn about in several rooms. This morning I need to pack them up and see what makes the final cut. I will be asking myself, several times, “What am I forgetting?”

I did my darnedest to thoroughly enjoy my bed last night. After having done this bike trip for many years –around 16 or 17, I think– where we sleep on the ground every night for a week, I know how much I will be missing my bed in few days. It was the last time I would be on this bed for coming days, and I really wanted to appreciate it.

I did, sort of. I was asleep for too short a time, being awakened early by lovely chirping birds at the crack of dawn and my busy mind, plotting how I was going to get myself prepared by the appointed hour of departure. The one thing that I didn’t accomplish yet is, giving my bicycle any attention toward cleaning and recalibrating. I think my chain has stretched a bit, and it hasn’t been cleaned in a long time. The shifting doesn’t seem as smooth as usual and I think the cables need to be pulled a bit tighter.

If I don’t have time, it’s ride-able. I’ll deal with it on the trip. We are supported by a van from Penn Cycle and a very capable bicycle technician. As much as I would prefer to have my bike in better shape, it wouldn’t be the first time someone relied on his expertise to get their ride in ship-shape condition.

I need to pack my things! And eat breakfast. And vacuum, sweep, and otherwise prepare the house for showings while I’m gone. All minor hassles, and, at the same time, wonderful things! Because, I am on vacation!