First Night Away

Last night was my very first night away from Ella.  In the last eighteen months since her birth, there have only been a handful of nights when I haven't been home to put her to bed, but I've always been able to give her a kiss while she sleeps, and have been there to greet her in the morning.  But not last night, and not tonight either.

I'm in Chicago for work, and while I'm thoroughly enjoying this trip, I admit that I sincerely miss my baby girl.  I know that she is in good hands with my dad.  He is absolutely wonderful with her, and she really seems to be enjoying her time with him.  But I admit that I miss her.

Thanks to modern technology, I've been able to Skype with them a couple of times.  I have even been able to maintain my New Year's Resolution of reading to her every day by reading her a quick picture book (and I trust that she's getting plenty more books read to her by my dad, who read to my brothers and I each night through high school). 

We have one more presentation to do tomorrow afternoon, so our flight isn't until later in the evening, which means that Ella will be asleep by the time I get home tomorrow night.  But at least I know that I will be able to wake up with her on Monday morning. 

Today's blessing was a really successful day here in Chicago!  We saw some great students, I ate a lot of great food, and I spent time with some great colleagues.  Yes, I'm sad to be away from Ella, but it's also a blessing to be able to travel and do what I love, knowing that she's in good hands with my dad.