I go back to work tomorrow. I’ve really enjoyed this time off. We’ve done a bunch of stuff as a family, and I’ve had one-on-one time with both BW and NatureBoy. We’ve spent time outdoors, enjoying the fleetingly short but beautiful Vermont summer. I’ve gotten in a respectable amount of gaming. And I’ve spent time with friends. Can’t ask for much more than that. 🙂

Yesterday morning, NB and I played another round of Settlers of Catan. We learned a few more things and had a good time (NB won). In the evening, we had a barbecue with a gaming friend and his wife. When he was visiting a couple weeks ago, he had expressed appreciation for the boffer swords that NB and I had made. I offered for him to come over and participate in a little swordtag sparring and for us to get a chance to meet his spouse.

We had a great time! My friend, whom I now dub TheaterGeek (TG) sparred with me and NatureBoy. We adults had a nice post-dinner chat while NB spent some quality time with his GameCube. Then TG and I did a little grup boffer sword sparring. It was great fun — and a good work-out. The GeekWive’s were making noises about kitting together; this can only be good. We’ll have to have have them over again, soon.

Today, we played a game of Settlers of Catan as a family. I finally won a game 😎 and, more importantly, BW said she really enjoyed the game. We ran a couple errands after lunch, and BW and I watched a few more Battlestar Galactica episodes — the Pegasus episodes were very harsh.

Now, as we prep for the week, I realize that I’m looking forward to going back to work. But I’m really greatful for the wonderful time off I’ve had with family and friends. Now, we are going to go roast some marshmallows on the night of the Full Moon.

Blessed Be.