I can't even count it as day 1 since I dropped him off at the airport at 4:30. He's not even in Germany yet. Anyway, John's gone for a week.

I know many of you are single parents or your partner travels regularly. Not so in our house. The last time John was gone for an extended period was almost four years ago. Rose was a high needs two year old. She got sick, and it was insanely difficult.

It will not be that bad this time. For one thing, I've recruited a lot of help. I've brought in 4 out-of-town relatives and friends. Yes, I had 4 people fly here to help me. And I'm planning to draw on the in town support system. Everything will be just fine, yup mmhh, just fine.

Things I did tonight that are usually John's job: unpack the toy bag, put the picnic food away, do the dishes, close the deal on getting David to sleep.