single dad for the week

5:00 Saturday morning I dropped by my wife and oldest son at the the HHH terminal sending them on a long week to Florida. I've been getting regular updates on how their frolicking in the pool, watching the sunset over the ocean, eating at all kinds of nice restaurants, basking in 80 degree weather. I suppose sometime this week they'll make it to Disney, or Cape Canaveral. My son may play golf with the Grandpa. I know they've already been shopping. More to come I'm sure.

The Minnesota bound have suffered through some severe cold, but for the most part life has gone well. I have two beautiful daughters who have been a tremendous help with the younger kids. They both know how to cook, wash dishes, do laundry, clean rooms. Sometimes they need a bit of encouragement, and sometimes the carrot looks like KFC. The house gets cleaned and they eat out at home. The Wii has been helpful during the cold snaps, and last night I closed the draps while the girls and I did a four mile walk with various contortions to an exercise DVD.

Sunday we watched a movie, and then I needed to head to cub for essential supplies (peanut butter and Mac & cheese). On the way to the store I had a very strange feeling. It took me awhile but I finally figured out what it was.

We had just watched a movie that happens to stir me in philosophical, theological and otherwise creates an emotional disturbance in my personal biosphere. Driving to the store I was thinking about the movie and various tangents, and I felt this huge sense of loss. A bit of melancholy, but from what? I wanted to talk about the movie, and I didn't have anyone to talk to. My best friend and confidant was miles away across space and time and I couldn't share any of my thoughts with her. I suppose I could have whipped out the ol' blackberry and called, but even then it's not the same. My girls are quite the conversationalists, but they aren't my wife. I was lonely.

What a great gift, the opportunity to reflect on my wife Barbara and the relationship seasoned by trials and tribulations, joys and sorrows, creating that love we have today. So while I enjoy a little the extra space in bed, it's not as cozy. I can dictate what we eat for dinner, but the ambiance is a bit off. It's fun to see the kids perk up when mom calls home, even if the conversation is short so they can get back in front of the toe-heater in the kitchen.

So while I don't celebrate valentines day per se, I do love my wife and thank God for the blessing she is to me. Here's to you Barb. I wouldn't be me without you.