Connectivity

He called from LAX. I could hear the guy next to him talking about his Petty Officers more clearly than I could hear my husband on his cell phone! Fifteen hours later, he called on his cell from Sydney. The reception was clear as a bell. Modern communication is awesome. And changing. And a new system to learn. Last year we were on webcam. I found that to be emotional. There is something hard for me about seeing the person but not being able to be together. Facebook is a little bit like that for me, as well. I find the photos of family and friends draw out an emotional response that e-mail alone doesn't. At the same time, I wouldn't trade that ability to see the people who are far from me! 7/7/09

The Call

He called today, just as I finished dealing with two grumpy kids in the middle of dinner. Quick news from down under! The flight in tomorrow will be delayed. Here are the new times, choice of two; the later it is!...unless I call you.

I feel like I'm in secretary mode, "Uh huh, uh huh, gotcha. Well, have a safe trip and I hope you get in some sight-seeing between now and then!" It's an expensive cell phone call, so that's the end of it. I reflect, in some ways being away for 16 months to Bahrain was better. Then at least, we got to have regular phone calls twice a week, plus a webcam session. Oh, but then I reflect deeper. That really stunk. All five of us wafted in and out of emotional wreckage, and how many times did I have to have a personal cry-fest before I could compose myself (and reapply concealer) before going on webcam? And how many times did the webcam session fail just as I had settled into it, practically ripping my heart with my composure? Far too many! Ok, perspective reached. Two weeks away with a few e-mails and short business like phone calls is better. Let's see how perspective lasts once the in-two, out-two's start.... 7/17/09