I don't have many since I've lost my hand. Shit, I sound like a little child."

"No, I completely understand. Some of my friends have been avoiding us since the funeral. My mother tells me every day that they don't know how to act around us, and that we should make the first move. I'm not doing that because it makes us look needy. Ralph and I lost our child! My friends should understand that and not feel uncomfortable."

"Yeah. I got the same reaction. At first, it bothered me because they were my friends, but I soon realized that I couldn't change what happened to me, and I can't force someone to be in my life."

"Well, we have each other, and it feels good, doesn't it?"

"Yes, it does. Youa girl's movie. I want to watch Transformers."

"Mike, why can't I watch Cinderella?"

"Mike, why can't I watch Transformers?"

"Okay, you two. Let me pick the movie." They settle down when I pick Jurassic Park. It's not 'Mom, why can't I watch whatever movie.' It's Mike. Rebecca looks at me in the rearview mirror and winks. Acceptance is the first step in healing, and I finally know in my heart that the kids accept me. By the time we get home, both kids are asleep, and frankly, I'm worn out. Being a referee is exhausting.

Mom and Dad help us get the kids into the house and up to bed. It's after eight in the evening, and I need to get a few hours of sleep before my big day tomorrow.