We got home from Seattle about 1 pm yesterday, grabbed our stuff and went into the house.

No one even knew we were home.

At first, we thought maybe they had gone next door or something and left the front door open.  Then, we realized the dogs were not even greeting us.

We found Derek in the kitchen trying to get it cleaned up from the weekend.  We said our hellos and thank yous – then wondered where the kids were.

“They are upstairs cleaning their room.”

Damn!

We talked to him, went through mail, and generally started unpacking.

Still – no kids.

Finally, they came down to negotiate with Derek an early release from the room cleaning.  I was surprised that it was a joint effort.  Usually, negotiations are a specialty of Indigo – and DJ leaves her to go solo.  Not today.

I went into the kitchen and stood there near Derek as he told them bluntly that he didn’t care what their excuses were – get up there and finish.  I love Derek.  Nothing like having consistent parenting.

They finally noticed me standing there, shouted “Momo!” and gave me hugs.  That was about 45 minutes after we got home.  What’s funny about the exchange?  They marched right up to their room afterwards and didn’t even ask about Garbanzo.

Oh, and I should mention that the kids reassured me that Derek did not let them get tattoos and piercings despite what he had told me earlier before coming home.  I asked about the boyfriend which was also included in his updates, but they were strangely silent about that.

I guess we have gotten beyond the clingy stage with our kids.  No more feeling too much guilt when we leave.  More solo vacations for us!  Woo-hoo!

Hmm….where to go next?