He's so predictable! I think you've got the right idea about keeping things short and ignoring non kids talk. BTW, he'll figure out what you are doing and every communication will be about the kids.
You earned your wings and halo a long time ago!
Sit quietly, the answers will reveal themselves when you least expect them to. The past is gone, the present is a gift and you need to focus on today, allow the future to reveal itself when it is ready.
