Even on my “off day,” things were a little off. I decided to change up my shopping routine and start with a visit to the Puregold grocery store. Sometimes I can find things there that aren’t always available at Royal. So, the plan was Puregold, then go to the ATM at the nearby BPI branch for my weekly supply of cash, and then complete the shopping excursion at the old Royal store. Except halfway to the SBMA (the former Navy base), I realized I had forgotten to put my ATM card in my wallet. Well, shit. We had gone too far to turn around and get it, so the cash withdrawal would have to wait. I don’t carry my ATM card except when I intend to use it because if my wallet got lost or stolen, I’d be screwed. I’ve got a backup credit card, but the ATM is my source for the cash I need to buy lady drinks essentials. The day before, I had forgotten to put on my Fitbit smartwatch after my shower, so all those painful steps on the Hash trail went undocumented. Is anybody noticing a trend here?

After unloading the groceries, I had my driver drop me at the BPI in Subic town (it’s on his way home). I remembered my ATM card this time but forgot to bring my headphones so I could listen to music on the 5K walk home. Oh well. Early in the journey back to Barretto, it began to sprinkle some raindrops. A trike driver offered me a ride, but I declined. Shortly after that, another driver encouraged me to let him take me home, noting that it was going to rain. I again politely said no, thank you. My resistance was wavering, and I told myself I was taking it if I got another offer. A trike passed me on the highway a few minutes later, and the driver called out, “Barretto?”. How could I refuse? When I got in, he said he had seen me walking the streets often. I still can’t get over how many trike drivers recognize me. Some of them even know me by name, which I can’t figure out–I never say my name to the driver, just “Alta Vista.” Anyway, it was my day off from walking so I didn’t feel too guilty about aborting the hike home from Subic.

Later in the afternoon, I headed out to Alley Cats for the darts tournament. Damn, it seems I’ve also forgotten how to throw darts. I don’t recall ever being so consistently off target. It’s actually a little embarrassing. I just can’t figure out what has gone wrong. Something is off with my mechanics, or maybe it’s all in my head. Hmm, that would explain it! Anyway, it sucks to suck at a game I used to be pretty good at. The fact that I’m not motivated to practice and try and work my way out of the slump tells me it may be time to take a break from playing for a while. I’m not having fun right now, so what’s the point?

Oh, and the Dick came in and hung out with some friends at Alley Cats too. First time I’d seen him there. He’s not worth the energy to give a shit, though. And there is some comfort in knowing I’m not the biggest loser in the bar.

After darts, I crossed the highway to Mango’s and sat down at the beach bar. The sun was already down, but I still enjoyed watching the lights on the bayside as I sipped a cold beer. I ordered up some dinner too.

One last beer at Outback on the way home, then I hit the sack at my regular time to give my feeble brain some much-needed rest.

And now it is another Whacked Wednesday. Did a walk this morning I’ll write about tomorrow. Now, it is time to get ready for dart league. It’s the last match of the season, and I’m really glad about that. I’ve agreed to be an as-needed substitute next season, but that’s more than enough for me.

I need a vacation.