siblings

Late Sunday night when Leta and I finally returned from our trip, I quickly tucked her into bed because she had stayed up hours past her bedtime the previous two nights. We briefly talked about what a great time we’d had, and after I kissed her on the forehead like I normally do before I leave she grabbed my arm.

“This is the third night without Marlo around!” she said, barely containing her joy.

“You’re right.” I responded.

“THREE NIGHTS WITHOUT MARLO!”

“Yes, three nights,” I said trying to contain my sudden sadness. I ruffled her hair and gave her one last kiss. “I’m glad you’re happy.”

When I saw Marlo yesterday morning I felt like I couldn’t hold her long enough. I travel so much, and while I always miss my kids when I’m away, it’s that moment I first see them when I return that reveals to me just how much I longed for them. And when Leta got home from school and saw Marlo for the first time since Friday, the same thing happened to her.

“Oh my gosh, Marlo!” she screamed while almost hugging her into unconsciousness. “I MISSED YOU SO MUCH!” She even looked up at me like, why am I so exited about this?

It’s called sorcery, Leta. All kids practice it.