Yes, they do. I'm in the middle of one going on six years now. Before that, the few I did have never came close to lasting this long. I've never felt like I was flying so blind on the decision making front as I have throughout most of this period. Some good has come out of it, though, and I'm still alive, still kicking, and still ornery enough to keep going.

I hear you about the "not being 29" part, too. Guess that's what happens when you venture into middle age. I guess it starts way before that, but you're still able to convince yourself your body and mind and gumption might have some mileage on them now, but you can still go out and run with the young bucks. Yeah, right. Maybe for a little bit, enough to keep them guessing, but really, the pasture they've been trying to retire you too for the past 10 years at least is starting to look awfully good.

Oh. Wait. Was this about me or you? :) Anyway. Vicissitudes, man. It's all about the vicissitudes. :)