Not much to report on the parenting front this week. The wife and kids are out of town. The boys, ages 7 months and 2, are with grandma in Connecticut while my wife travels for business. They left Thursday and return Friday.

So this is what it was like before the kids ruled the roost. Quiet. Things stay in the same place until I move them. In fact, the whole house stays still if I leave. I need to find things to do instead of thinking, “Remember when we went to the movies?” Or: “That would be fun if I had the energy for it.” When the kids are around, they are the activity. Tons of it. So much that I wait, longingly, for that glorious time of the day: naptime.

Breaks are good, and I’ve enjoyed mine. I’ve seen a movie – You Don’t Mess With The Zohan – and sat through a Marlins game – they lost. I’ve had a couple of realizations since they’ve been away, though, that apply here. First, I am struck by how much we, as parents, get done on an average day. It’s a daily whirlwind of tasks, games, meals and just plain silliness. On most days, I worry about what’s not getting done. It’s good to remember that the opposite is the case.

Second, as they saying goes, life is in the details. I miss my family for those little moments when you connect: the car ride, the funny game and the good meal. You experienced parents out there know this well. I’ve heard you tell me it many times. I’m just not sure I understood it until now.