I can relate to this at so many levels. My dad left for work for extended periods of time and be home only for 2-3 months at a stretch. After a certain point I went numb to him leaving. We had a hard time connecting with each other when I was a teenager when we both went through an awkward stage. We reconnected after I was done with college until the day he died, early at 69. It was the most devastating loss of my life. I am glad you were able to connect with your dad. Cherish these moments to the fullest.