I'm single again and though it was my idea I am not at all sure how I feel about it. I am proud that I kept an intense, long-distance relationship going between Los Angeles and Milan for a year and a half and then from Manhattan to Milan for another nine months. I am also proud that Cris and I are still fantastic friends and I hope will always be. Ava, my daughter, has been asking if we sill see her this summer (she is especially keen to see Cris's maid, Rupa, who lived with us and cooked the kids desserts twice a day). I told Ava that I wasn't sure yet, that Cris is very busy. I have been on a few dates here in New York and so far have done an excellent job at the espionage required in keeping my kids in the dark about my love life.

Even though I only saw Cristina about a week every six weeks it wasn't all bad at all. Having a virtual girlfriend most of the time freed me to father and write and teach. When she came into town I put everything else on hold and vacationed a bit. I don't know how I would handle a girlfriend who actually lived on the same continent. I haven't had one like that in four years.

I've been divorced five years. Wow. I always thought of myself as one of those guys who was recently divorced. I guess I can't claim that anymore. I'll have to wear a different hat.