I need a box of rocks

For years (decades actually but whose really counting), my wife and I have shared this little joke. Driving stresses me brutally especially in places like NYC, LA, and Houston. I have often quipped that I planned to equip my car with a BOX OF ROCKS so that when people follow to closely I could “toss” a few. (Think about that the next time you follow me at 15 feet off my bumper on the expressway!)

Its an empty threat but when you are stressed, a little gallows humor sometimes helps. I would joke that unless you are really too close, I can’t drive and hit anything. But if you are too close, things just fall (up) from the car.

Imagine her dismay yesterday when the box of flints I ordered arrived. “Yes dear, I’ve always told you I needed a box of rocks. Now I will put them in the car and take them to the next reenactment.” Now I need a box of bigger rocks!