I’m in my long count to 10, currently holding at between 7 and 8. Counting’s gotten easier since having high-schoolers. As fate would have it, family gatherings seem to be the hardest drain on my countin’ battery. Let’s just say that there’s no greater draw on the ole “battry” than the alcohol-fueled rant of an in law who sees me as plaid-panted cousin Eddie from Christmas Vacation. But it’s good to know exactly how people feel about me, even if it means gettin’ poked with a sharp stick now and then.