Every Monday brings this heart-breaking refrain from my daughter (V): “No daddy work-a-days!” (with a pout and sad eyes to pile on the emotional pressure).
She just got used to having me around for the weekend when she has to let me go again. And of course, I can’t accommodate her wishes.
Sometimes, she even cries in the garage as I back out, and the loud screeching of the shutting door barely drowns her sadness out in real life, let alone in my head and heart.
In her more clam moments, she can talk about “work-a-days” and knows I’m at the office a lot–so much that, upon seeing a picture of my building, she asked “daddy live there?”
All of these moments come crashing down on me every time I have to leave her beautiful face. My only solace is that she gets to stay home with an equally beautiful wife who will make sure our daughter learns, has fun, and grows up healthy.
Yet, even as I pour my heart out here, I know I’m missing precious time that I’ll never get back, and I can’t help but feel even emptier for having voiced these thoughts.
So hold on to your little one every chance you get; certainly not for my sake, but for that special bond only you can foster between parent and child.
Glitnir76's Blog 
I know you wrestle with these feelings all the time, and that there is little I can do to help except tell you that V is lucky to have a Dad who realizes how precious that time is, who lavishes her with energy and love, and who supports her at home mama. Much love to you and thank you for the sacrifices you make every day for our family.
🙂
My kids hate when I’m gone. It’s not often since I work from home- but a few times a year, I’m gone for a few days. My middle son especially- he will bring up my trips months after they happened and tell me how much he missed me.
Yeah, it’s pretty devastating when they hold onto those feelings!
Sweet post Marc. It’s nice to hear a Dad talk about this struggle.
Thanks Julie; it’s been an on-going struggle.
Nice post and very endearing and when your time with her is limited.