Catching Idle Butterflies

Afraid of Murphy

Murphy scares me. He sneaks up behind when I least expect it. Just when I need things to work, everything crashes and I have to start over.

He does other, insidious things, such as when I make plans. When I do, BAM, plans fall apart and I stand around the dregs wondering what just happened.

Which is why I'm afraid to tell you this. I just know Murphy's going to stop by, make it all fall apart with a giggle, and I'll have to write a retraction. I hate writing retractions.

See, I really want for this to happen. I need it to. But if I reveal my plans, they will fall apart. If I keep them a secret, however, they may happen. Does this make any sense?

Okay, I'll put it to you this way, and perhaps Murphy will think I'm really not revealing anything solid.

The plan, though not set in stone by any means, is for Dave, his cousin Kyle, and I to go on a boat trip this weekend. We'll be using Dave's boat (as shown from the photo yesterday). We'll start at just south of Lake Sakakawea tonight and take Saturday and part of Sunday to either float or use the trolling motor down the Missouri River until we reach Bismarck. Each night we will set up tent on shore. Sounds like fun, huh?

What could give Murphy a reason to tear this plan up is whether or not we can take Rufus. Dave and I think she'll do fine, but we're not sure Kyle would want her with. We haven't been able to get in touch with him yet to ask. If he says no, then I'll likely have to stay home .

So if any one of you see Murphy lurking about, chase him away from me would ya? Thanks!