Phew.

This afternoon, I finished my last securities test. This one wasn't quite the monster I took in May, but with the hectic schedule I've had recently, there didn't seem to be a lot of time for study (or was I just tired of studying?).
When one's brain is old, as mine is, it seems to take a lot more effort to make the stuff soak in. Maybe it's my need to understand the logic and concepts, which don't always seem to be present when one deals with government regulations.
Anyway, I passed, with score to spare.
Phew.
I'm vegging out tonight. Tomorrow, I leave for St. Paul for a follow up week of training. A week on the road, away from work and home, neither of which I wish to be away from.
This shall pass.
Hope all is well with y'all.

Happy Father's Day

Yesterday, I found myself in kind of a funk. I couldn't really put a finger on what was wrong, just a non-specific "downer" feeling.
As I was riding on my lawnmower, it occurred to me - I missed my dad. Seeing all the spots on Tim Russert, which mentioned the relationship between Tim & his dad, made me think of my dad, and all the fond memories I have of him. He's been gone a little over a year now, but rare is the day I don't think about him or mention him in conversation.
Most of all, I miss talking to him. I've got a lot of questions for him; guess they'll have to wait.
I've had conversations with my kids already today, wishing me well for Father's Day. I wonder, however, how I stack up as a dad. Methinks there could have been improvements made, but I'm sure about everyone might think that in retrospect. I count myself as blessed to have such a wonderful family, certainly beyond what I deserve...
So, hope all you dads have had a great day. Enjoy your time with your kids, they are priceless moments you will treasure forever. And, if you've still got your dad, be sure to keep the relationship alive and well.
No regrets.