I just booked tickets for me and the girls to go visit my dad the first week of the new year. D and I discussed it, and he’s ok with staying home; with so much on his plate, the thought of taking a week off is more stressful than delightful. The timing is just not good for him right now, so the girls and I are going to go it alone.

Because we can.

Because he’s not doing that great.

Because I want my kids to get a chance to see their grand-daddy before he’s gone.

Because I want to get him to work on his will.

Because Fort Myers is really, really beautiful.

Because I don’t care how bad I look in a swimsuit right now… I love the sea and it loves me.

Because if not now, then when will be good?

And finally, because I had to think of something to do with the large checks my parents each gave me for Christmas. I thought and thought… not wanting more “stuff” … not wanting to just pay bills (though that would be practical!) … not wanting to just have it be a fraction of some home repair… so this seems the wisest way to use the money.

Sure, I could have saved a bunch of money by just going by myself to visit my dad, but that wouldn’t be nearly so fun. I need my kids with me, because they will bring me joy and happiness even when my dad depresses the shit out of me. And they may not have another opportunity to visit with my dad, since his health seems so poor. Besides, C and A would be furious with me if I left them out!