Another two years, another user conference over and done-with. I'm glad to be home. It was pretty strange, being away from the kids at this age. Steph told me they were acting differently, and things were certainly different when I walked in the door yesterday evening. I'm usually greeted with loud yelling and frantic requests for "Up! Up!"

Yesterday, however, found the kids somewhat less enthusiastic about my return. I suspect there was probably some leftover resentment about my absence. I came up the stairs quietly, and planned to surprise them. Vicki and Steph were talking in the kitchen, while the kids were watching Sesame Street and running around. I popped my head around the corner during a segment about dogs and cats, so the kids were momentarily captivated. When I said, "Hi, look at the doggie," the kids didn't even respond. After a second greeting, Devin finally took some interest and was piqued at the fact that here stands Daddy. He ran over, as I initially expected, and wanted to do climbing. Maya remaind stoic and detached and eyed me with slight annoyance, either at interrupting Sesame Street or not being present for the last 3 days. Dinner was served and the aura of disdain was painfully present while Maya ate. Devin, merrily content with food and Daddy, was a happy boy.

After dinner it was bath time, and by this time, things with Maya seem to have normalized. I gave her extra bubbles in her bath and some extra Elmo toothpaste/lube - both of which appeared to restore the father/daughter bond.

This morning, things were back to normal and everyone seems to be content with the fact that I'm home... for a few days, at least. Oh well, such is the way of work.