Dear readers,
It's hard to be away from home where one's wife and two small children are. This statement is delivered with a certain degree of conflict because it seems like Ellen and I are always wishing to one another that we could get away WITHOUT the kids. I have to keep reminding myself that this, in fact, is an opportunity to get away. However, I am learning that it is not exactly that simple.
Each time I talk to Ellen I hear Grace or Julia in the background. I then remember that Ellen is getting no break. She is actually working much harder as she is saddled with the responsibility of being the sole caregiver and caretaker of our domestic lives. I keep wondering what the kids think of my absence? Do they wonder where I have gone? If I will be back? Do they miss me as much as I miss them?
It is hard to keep my mind from wandering into unsettling thoughts about what their lives might be like without me. The thought of not being in the lives of my daughters and wife is a terrifying concept to me, but I suppose it helps to rejuvenate my appreciation for the fabulous life I have back in Macon. Since I will be returning just in time for our anniversary, this is a timely conclusion to reach.
So, as I write these words I am mentally preparing to give my research presentation. I will review the activities I have carried out this past year that help to advance the very ambitious goals of a research project I am involved with. I suppose I will enjoy this last full day of my conference and try to get as much useful feedback as possible. After all, it would be a waste of good personal time away if I did not make full use of it. Keep Ellen and the girls in your thoughts.
Sincerely,
Craig
2 comments:
Making me cry. I miss you.
Hi Craig,
I lurk on your ladybug blog occasionally and adore it. Happy to see the family is well.
There were a couple of periods during my life where one or both of my parents had to be gone quite frequently (your lovely mother and sister in law put up with me for much of that time). With the exception of a few of my preteen years (chalk it up to hormones), I've had what think is a pretty fantastic relationship with my mom and dad.
Julia and Grace won't remember that you were gone occasionally, they will remember that you were a great dad.
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