The three of us were about to head to Maine.

It is a trip we’d taken so many times over the last seventeen years that I imagined, the kids, now that they could share the driving, would be able to find their way to the old homestead just as if they were hatchling turtles making their way to the sea – seemingly by instinct.

Not that I would wager any serious money since the route has recently diverted through Boston for the collection of my firstborn.

But generally, we know all there is to know about the extended family vacation to the point that we have created a game of BINGO from the possibilities:

• How far past the expiration date is this cottage cheese?

• DOH! The dog got skunked!

• Has anyone seen Uncle Erik?

• Will Dad wake himself with his snoring?

• Most grocery store trips in one day!

• DOH! Someone goes to the ER!

• Who hid the........

© The Saratogian