A mid-trip vacation

Hello Everyone,

When I first read the seminal graphic novel Watchmen by Alan Moore, one of the parts I found somewhat annoying, but then grew to really appreciate, was the element of a story within a story. One of the characters in Watchmen is reading a book, and you end up following that secondary story as well. Moore uses the concept really well, as you don't realize what the secondary story means until the end of the entire book, and even then it makes you think. The story within a story concept is also famously used in the novel The Man in the High Castle by Philip K. Dick, though I've never read that one. Just want to name drop here to boost my literary cred.

As I write this, I'm seated on the couch of a comfortable vacation cottage in the Ocean Beach neighbourhood of San Diego. I am, in the midst of my trip, on vacation.

Jonny got here on Sunday, and since he's on vacation, I am by default as well. While living on the road means you don't always have a set schedule, I've still been trying to live healthily and do other things to maintain a good lifestyle. I eat simply, don't drink, read as much as I can, don't watch TV, work on some personal projects, etc.

While staying at this cottage, it feels more like the bike trips I've taken in the past. I'm enjoying a few drinks after a ride, watching TV, staying up late with all this artificial lighting, showering everyday. Luxurious stuff that you can't keep up in your regular schedule.

Like all good vacations, this one will end too soon. We have to leave tomorrow and get back on the road. We are meeting Dave in San Francisco, for what will also be a vacation.

I'm not sure which elements of the wider narrative will be illuminated by this departure from the main story line. Usually, you don't find out until it's done.

wes