Where Did the Time Go

I can't believe it is time to head back to New York. It seems as if we just arrived. I haven't had nearly enough hugs and kisses and silly games with my girls. Sugar is still learning how to harass the littlest dog Grace. Not to mention the parrot. But leave we must. Our time is up.

In the predawn gray of morning, I rise, make the comfy bed, and tuck my things back in my black duffel bag. It doesn't take me long. I have learned over the years to travel light. Make do. Basics only, and don't kid yourself that you will actually *do* anything like work or read or projects while you are there, even if you wanted to.

I tiptoe to the bathroom and then quietly make my way to the living room where I awaken Kiel. He grunts and rolls over, resisting rising. Drew is even worse to get started in the morning. Come on, boys. We need to get on the road and underway so we get home before midnight. I pile my few things near the door.

DJ comes out to say goodbye, followed by Katie, half asleep and sweet in her innocence. Kelly slowly wanders in our direction while the boys struggle to get packed and arrange the car and the dog for our long drive. I hug everyone. I hug them again. I whisper "love you's" in their ears and they cuddle their heads on my shoulder.

I want to kidnap them, tuck them in the back seat and take off. But I know I can't. They would miss their Mom and Dad terribly. And I haven't the energy to keep up with their activity. Running, jumping, playing, giggling, painting, romping with the dogs, chasing ducks, turning somersaults - I get tired just watching them!

We climb in the car, pray, and head up the long steep driveway to the street. I look back. They are inside, probably already back in bed snoozing happily, delaying their sadness at not having Gramma and Unc's to spend their day with. And Sugar. They love Sugar. Sugar gazes confused at me, whining quietly. She does not understand.

It is a long and quiet morning. No one talks, no music, no audio book. Each of us wanders in our own world, missing our cuties and recalling the sweet kisses and hugs, the laughter and happiness, packing it into our memories for the long drought ahead. I am already thinking about the next trip down.