Back from vacation. Had an awesome time! The kids didn't want to leave. I am proud of myself for how well I planned and executed the vacation. I feel like a confident and competent single Dad. Ironic that I am now fighting to keep my custody of the kids. We spent a whole week in the sun at the beach and no one got sunburned, so I guess I was sufficiently diligent with the sunscreen.
Going with the other families was great. There were a grand total of twelve kids in our group. My kids were by far the youngest, and everyone helped me look out for them, very helpful near the ocean.
Kids hardly mentioned their Mom on the trip, and only asked to call her once. She called them once as well. I give her credit for that, as I appreciate her letting me have my vacation with the kids and not intruding.
Although the kids are still in my custody for a few more days, I offered for W to have the kids for the day yesterday. Why I'm generous given the situation I sometimes question, but it seemed like the right thing to do for the kids, if nothing else. Strange, when she showed up my son and older daughter were quite standoffish with her. She held out her arms for a hug, and they reluctantly walked over and let her hug them with their arms at their sides. I even felt bad for her a little. They warmed up quick though, and started telling her the fun tales of our trip, difficult for her to hear I'm sure. She put on a good act though.
I didn't even think to look to see whether she had on her engagement ring again. I have no idea what was up with that. Seemed like a "let's f*ck with H's head" move to me, and it worked, a little.
