Mixed Emotions

Next month, one of my best friends will get married for the first time at age 51. All I can ask is that he be as happy with his decision as I am since I walked down the aisle almost seven years ago.

Allen has asked me to be one of his groomsmen. I agreed, especially since he was one of my groomsmen. I'll fly out to Portland, Oregon February 11 and return February 15. I am excited to see another part of the country, but I don't think I've ever been apart from Rebecca and Rachel for even half that long.

Rachel realized last night I was going to be away several nights. Her lip started to quiver and she started whimpering, just on the verge of tears. I ached for her and also felt filled with love for the impact we've had on each other's lives. Rebecca assured her they'd have fun and go to grandma's.

Still, as I usher my friend Allen on to the newest phase of his life, I will be yearning for the two lights of my life more than two thousand miles away. While their pictures will be on my nightstand; my yearning to return to them will be constant in my heart.