DH says he misses me..and the kids, I am surprised

[JSVDP]

Every month sometimes one alot of times two times my kids and I take off to come visit my family two hours away.  I dont get to see them that much and I have two days to see everyone that lives ni this town(hard to do with this much family LOL).
My dad has been sick since the beginning of January and I have been here more often than usual.  I was here for about a week with the kids until my dad was transfered to the vet hospital and then when they sent him to the rehabilation clinic I came back to go visit him and make sure he was doing alright.  I then came back two weeks later so my family here could celebrate my daughters birthday.  Then I came two weeks later to celebrate my nephews and neice's birthdays and to drive two more hours away to visit my dad.  That was just about a two weeks ago.  Then I got a call Sunday that my Dad needed a ride from the rehab center because he was finally well enough to come home, I also got a callthat my uncle had died.
I am going to the funeral so I had to have my DH drop me and the kids off on Tuesday and we will be here until Sunday evening.
Normally when thekids and I are gone my DH seems annoyed when I call, doesn't even call me alot of the time.  I asked him once if he ever missed us when we were gone, he said "yeah I guess so".
Well yesterday I go an email from him this is what it said:

I was just curious how things were going and how you and the kids were doing. It's really lonely not having you and the kids home when I get there at night. I probably don't tell you that often. But it is. I have a few minutes to kill before things get super busy here again. I just wanted to let you know that I love you and the kids. I miss you guys. Talk to you later hon.

This is the first time in a long time my husband has actually told me how he feels.  He is not very good with his feelings and doesn't like to show a lot of affection.  Its how he always has been. Its just not him.  He does make an effort every once in a while if things are not great between us, and on holidays or birthdays he tries to at least write me a short little note telling me how lucky he is to have me and our kids.
I talked to him last night and he sounded kind of depressed. Tonight will be different because he ishaving a few friends over to play video games, its his way of keeping his mind off htings and not being lonely.
I just thought it was so sweet because DH has never told me he misses me when the kidsand I are gone.  So I just had to share.

[ddsunshine]

I am in the same boat as you are when it comes to the family and friends being away from you. My family and friends live about 2 hours away and I usually go for about 3 days and spend time with all of them.

However I am the one who doesnt want to pick up my phone and talk to him because I am so busy catching up with my friends and family. He is always calling and wanting to talk and being lonely. I guess its because I am with him 24/7 that I dont need to talk to him all the time.

I am glad to see that your husband sent you and email telling you how he feels. I am very sorry to hear the loss of your uncle.