an unusual phone call

I received a phone call from my dad. This, in itself, is unusual. Both my father and I hate the phone with a passion. Indeed, I have described myself as phone phobic.

I'm home, he said.

Up North? I said. (As he has a home in the northern part of the state, and a home in the South near the Gulf where he winters).

Yep, he said. Listen, the reason for my call is I wanted to tell you how proud I am of you for what you have done in caring for your mother.

(I managed to say thanks through my shock and emotion - after all, I have long been the least favored child.)

You are a good, nurturing daughter, he said. I wanted to let you know.

I was, and am, stunned.

He noticed. AND said something about it.

He and his wife had visited a few days prior to this- I think my sister must have mentioned that I knew he came into town and didn't visit me, just my brother and sister and so they made a point of coming over- and my dad, his wife, I and my mom had lunch together. My mom took a nap after lunch and my dad, his wife and I visited a bit about my mom's surgeries and recoveries.

My parents have been divorced for more than 20 years. After many uncomfortable years, we as a family have found ways to be together without too much tension.

All of this led up to this most unusual phone call.

I'm not sure how long it will take me to process this.

Guess it's a good thing I answered the phone.