As humans we 'Adapt' rather easily. So it's possible that you may have adapted to a slight looseness in the steering gear, and your absence caused some forgetfulness.
Suspect either someting fell off during the layover, or there is indeed some wear, either in the centre tooth of the rack , typical of a hi ratio rack (often eliminated by a V carefull tensioner adjustment) or perhaps your removable Wheel has loose fittings, or a column bush is loose/worn., your ties rod ends (all 4!) need inspection/attention
Lotsa Possibilities.. good for at least a Day's entertainment.