Hmmmm... Back to the drawing board. Let's see? First of all, I wish you a speedy recovery and don't be discouraged as I'm sure this won't be the last family outing! Get well soon! Secondly, would the mornings work after he has gotten some sleep, for example, could you guys go to breakfast or something like that? Maybe you could go home for lunch and spend time while the kids are at school? That is, if you work close enough to home?<P>It appears that your need for conversation could somehow be met through recreational outings once you heal? Ya think?

Yes, we've been at least having coffee out in our backyard every morning together. Sometimes he runs to get it, sometimes I do. I let him know that it's pretty wonderful as far as I'm concerned.<P>Oh! And I had to tell you! Last night when he came home and I was up, it all went a little more nicely for the first time! Like I told you I just am awake when he gets home, and last night he actually expected it and liked it. Go figure! <P>During the Fall we just won't see each other until he can change to working days. No more summer coffee in the morns, and I'll have to get my sleep! He won't try to bid for day shifts right away, because our youngest, 9yr old boy, is playing sports, and we'll be at his games every Saturday for the next two months. The only way for H to have <I>Saturdays</I> off right now is the swing shift.<P>It was that knowledge right there that got me going about all this again. <P>We've actually had a fairly good summer together ... but I knew Fall was coming, and that I'd be gone again while he was here alone ... etc. No more morning coffee. Sunday our only totally relaxed day ... Chances to get online ...<P>I'll survive!<BR><P>------------------<BR>Jena<BR>If you don't stand for <BR>something, you'll fall for <BR>anything