Missing Daddy

Duane had to make another trip to China. It was a sad house of girls here. No one likes it when Daddy is gone. Molly and I shed tears together. My anxiety level was off the charts while he was making the trip there and back. But life has to go on, especially when it is as busy as ours. Several weeks ago Duane and I sat down and looked at the calendar to find the week that would be the most manageable without him. Of coarse after he planned the trip, 5 more things came up. But that would probably have been the case any week that we chose. We stayed very busy and it helped pass the time. We had a girl's night the day Duane left. We ate dinner in living room and watched movies. I let the girls take turns sleeping with me every night. It made the lonely nights a little more bearable having some one to cuddle with. I truly ached being away from Duane. It's like taking half of a whole a way. I tried to console myself by taking comfort in the fact that we love each other so much, it hurts to be apart. I'm so lucky to have that. On Sunday we went to an art show to see two pieces of Madison's art work that were selected to be on display. This was very exciting for all of us! I was so proud of her! She made a Chinese dragon, which was kind of ironic and a drawing of her being a vet when she grows up. Madison went to a cheer leading camp for three evening that week. On the final night they did a performance for the families. She really had fun with it. It was a blast watching her, but it was just as much fun watching Molly trying to do the routines from the stands. Next year she'll be old enough for cheer leading camp. That's going to be the case for a lot of things soon. Molly's growing up! We did all of this in addition to our normal activities and routines. I have so much respect for single parents. I don't know how they do it. I really am trying to appreciate all the things that Duane does to help out. It sure is a lot! By Friday, we were all exhausted and really ready for the man of the house to come home. It was hard to contain our excitement. We made him a welcome home sign and hung it on the front door. I let the girls stay up until he got home around 10:30. They didn't even let him get out of the car before covering him with kisses and hugs. I was so relieved to have Duane safe and sound at home. We were one happy, reunited family. We were complete again! Every time he goes on a trip, Duane brings the girls something special. While in China, he visited a silk factory. He bought all three girls the most adorable pajamas. I got a beautiful silk shirt. Daddy's always thinking of his girls, no matter where he is. We're so glad he's home, sweet home!