Written on July 2nd, 2006

I watch my husband and my daughter laughing on the floor. She gargles her spit then dissolves into giggles. He pretends disgust and turns away, and she throws herself over him, growling. They both roll over, and he accuses her of farting – she adamantly denies it. Giggles take over again as he attempts to capture the hug he claims is on her shirt, and he sneaks in a pouffle. He has not been home in over a month, and her elation at his visit is immense. Heedless of safety, (honey!! I say, exasperated, but smiling) he throws her into the air, catches her and squeezes tight. Now lying on his stomach, he allows her to thump him a few times before suddenly rolling over and once again stealing a pouffle – she is outraged for a few seconds, until he draws the breath-stealing giggles from her once more. We have missed him. Oh yes, we have.