6.02.2006

Day One

David got in the cab to go to the airport at 6:15 this morning. Yes, I cried. And I got a little scared, but overall, we'll be fine.(If you're new to the life that is my blog, my husband is out of the country, starting today, until September. The long "story" is here.)

And so the long, hot summer begins.

I made this paper chain for the boys today to mark the days until David gets back. Cal's pretty excited that there are so many "circles," and that we get to tear one off each night at bedtime. He seemed to understand, at least partially, that we're talking about Daddy's trip being really, really long this time. Henry usually does OK until David has been gone for about three days and then he starts to unravel a bit, which is sad since he's not quite able to articulate what seems wrong in his world. I'm personally a little overwhelmed that there are so many "circles." But I liked it that we found the best place to hang our countdown - looking through to the front door, so when there aren't any circles left on the chain, the door will open and Daddy will come in!

Stay tuned for exciting new photos of the paper chain as the summer continues. I'll try to keep things interesting in between. Based on how things get when I feel alone and stressed out, there's almost certain to be a few more tales like the original Code Yellow Story. Hmmmm. Can't wait.

7 comments:

Angela said...

" But I liked it that we found the best place to hang our countdown - looking through to the front door, so when there aren't any circles left on the chain, the door will open and Daddy will come in!"
Either you're a good writer, or I'm a sap. That just brought a tear to my eye.

someone else said...

That is the neatest idea! I hope the time passes quickly for you. And when it feels long, remember your blog friends are supporting you.

Gabriela said...

That is a really cute idea (the rings). I can't believe your husband will be gone so long!!! I am sorry. We were apart once for a couple of months when oldest 2 were little. Not to fun. But, you'll get into a routine and it will go by quick. You'll be in my thoughts!

the lizness said...

great idea! I know you will have a big burden on you until he comes home, but we'll be behind you 150%.

utmommy said...

Try to stay positive. My DH left for 4 months when child #4 was only 4 months old. It was tuff, but we survived. It'll be over quicker than you know!!

Nettie said...

I think that is a wonderful chain. My dad was gone for very long periods when I was a child and I remember how hard it was to imagine how much time had to pass before he could come home. I think this is a great way to help your boys cope with his being gone. As for you, hang in there and I hope the time passes quickly!

Katherine@Raising Five said...

Very clever! I think you could get your engineer son to draw a new parking space every day while he's gone. You'd have almost a mall's worth by the time he gets back!