A figure in the distance, even to my own eye

Congrats on the phone, man. Yes, the Tugboat Captain's log makes me feel a little less isolated, too. Good to know you're out there.

I hear you on the subject of wifely proximity. I sometimes wish C* were home more often, as she often works late into the night (she usually leaves before 8AM and doesn't get home until 9:30 or 10). But you make me grateful for the everyday stuff, even if I only get to see her for 3 waking hours. I imagine it must be pretty hard having El so far away most of the time. But she must be finding her work to be pretty rewarding? Living in NYC can't hurt, either. The only solution is for you to get yourself a job up there.

We'll be in the DC area around New Years--it would be cool to see you if you are in town. Maybe we can hit the Taverna for lentil soup and beer. Are you staying in-country for the holidays?

Still snowing. Not much sticking. I don't have a TV, but I imagine they're going wild ("there's gonna be a snow storm, and they're letting me go home...").