Di, you sound so lucky. I live less than 10 miles from my Dad and we never talk. It's not that I haven't tried (long story).

About visiting him... if I were you (I know I'm not, but if I were), and I could finagle a way to make the trip, I would... and pay it of @ $20/week if I had to. I want a dad that loves me that much and does the very things you mentioned: inspire, care, teach, amaze, and so on. I wanted to call your dad, myself, after reading your post. God love him, and you. You are very fortunate to have each other.