I'm finally back home in Austin after 5 days in San Francisco. I went to SF for an annual research conference that I've had the benefit of going to for the past 3 years. I really like San Francisco. In fact, I really like California. I had a good time there last week. During the week I was able to also see some friends whom I hadn't seen in a while. But the best part of the trip was arriving back home. I couldn't wait to see Carolyn again. Though Chloe was asleep by the time I got home last night, I was able to spend time with her this morning when she woke up.

Its hard being away from family for too long. I had originally planned to stay in California even longer to spend more time with friends, but at the last minute I changed my flight to come home earlier. It ended up costing me $40, but looking back it was well worth it. At this point there's no way I could imagine staying more than a week in California.

I find it strange how I'm slowly taking on grown-up dad characteristics. While in California, I reminisced with my friend Danny over some old times, but also talked about how strange it was to be growing up and having to deal with adult issues. I miss the days when all I had to worry about was homework. Prior to leaving for my trip, Carolyn and I discussed buying a new washing machine. While I was gone, Carolyn went out with my parents to buy one. Are Maytag washers the best? That's what I hear from the over 30 crowd.

It's not bad though. At the end of the day I have a cute little spud and a lovely wife to come home to. The two of them make me want to come home as early as possible.