I may have extricated myself from my family for four days to attend WordCamp Gold Coast  (and let me tell you that takes more logistical manoeuvres than the allied troops arrival in Afghanistan) but when my youngest daughter discovered I could check my messages it was on …

YD: I love u so much mum and If u get this at the b’s remember to call every night.

Me: I love you too Princess. Miss u heaps.

YD: Same.

YD: What time is your blog thing today?

Me: 9 – 5 I’m there now.

YD: Are u having fun mum?

Me: Yes it’s good.

YD: That’s good I miss u a lot so what do I have to do

Me: Go read one of your books.

YD: I am, why? I’m reading the people of sparks it came so we got it from the library today because I got a letter saying that if had come.

Me: Fantastic.

YD: This may be the last message for awhile. before I meant what do u have to do at the blogging thing and when do u get back?

Me: Oh I didn’t understand I have to sit and listen. I get back to port about 12 on Monday.

YD:Do u get breaks?

Me: Yes

YD: R U at B’s yet?

Me: No, still at the uni.

YD: What’s uni mean?

Me: University.

YD: Why r u at uni mum? and hope you r having fun at blogging thing.

Me: The blogging thing is being held at the uni … can you make sure you all tidy up the house because K is coming tomorrow to go to dance, also can you get Dad to buy the Sunday Telegraph it’s got an article in it I want to talk about in my blog.

YD: Ok dad has gone to bunnings and C and M are coming to nobbies with us to walk the dogs I wish u were here and we will try to get the house cleaned up.

YD: Mum I wish u were home.

Me: Be back tomorrow. Have fun at the beach.

YD: Your blog thing how u made it auto and every day a articles come up is good.

Me: Thanks for checking.

YD: Mum do u know where my tights are because I need them for dancing please I need u reply.

YD: Don’t  worry I found my tights.

YD: Night night love u terra nova was good and we taped it for u love u can’t wait to see u tomorrow.

Me: Good night darling.

YD: And sorry forget to tell dad to buy the paper u wanted so sorry.

I have to remember that in a few years time she won’t care if I disappear for four days (note no messages from the 14-year-old).