all quiet on this western front

once again ... we are down to the sound of our own voices, an occassional meow, and the coo-coo clock signalling the time of day.  Gone is the glow from Haley's 16 hr a day computer screen.  Absent is the Kasey giggle.  Already missed is the daily Lori bear hug.  The departure of the trio has brought the felines out of semi hiding, the dishwasher back to it's bi-weekly run, and a rest for the hot water heater.  Our family outing to the Melodrama last night brought laughter & chatter, but soon after arriving home, everyone had retired to their rooms- save for Lori & I who managed to squeak out a little extra time together.  By the time we finally hugged for the last time (after a few "goodnight" false starts)... our eyes were weak from tears and the late hour (for the 4th night in a row).  Her presence here allowed the Captain & I to spend a couple of leisurely hours over a massive breakfast at the Seaside Cafe this morning.... something I've been looking forward to for a while.  For now- it will mean less dishes in the sink, fewer cans in recycling, more naps for Sirbil and my beginning preparations for the upcoming 4th of July celebration with the O'Brien & Franco households.