For the past 3+ years my husband, Art, has been unemployed, struggling, like many to find a job. Over a year ago he decided he wanted to go back to school, but a bad grade he got more than 25 years back was making things difficult with the local community colleges.
Finally, a couple of months ago, everything finally fell into place. The only problem was the stars didn’t align for a nearby college, but for Portland Community College, 616 miles from home (according to Google Maps). But I have never seen a plan come together so fast and so well. It was obviously meant to be. What could I do? I think I actually convinced him.
We took three days to get to Oregon, slowly driving up the coast and stopping at two hotels along the way. It was fun and romantic, but also kind of felt like the Last Supper, you know what I mean?
Art’s parents live about 3 hours south of Portland, so that was our last stop. The plan was to spend one night there, then I would drive home and Art would take his parent’s “spare” car to Portland. But morning came and I just couldn’t do it. So we spent a second night, and prayed some more, and somehow I felt good about saying goodbye and driving the 10 hours home by myself. I cranked up Fleetwood Mac’s Greatest Hits and just enjoyed the view.
It’s been almost two weeks now since I last saw Art. We talk multiple times a day. He has started school and is really enjoying his classes. Still looking for a semi-permanent living space, but it will come, I’m sure. I am so proud of him and his courage to step out of his comfort zone to find a way to achieve his lifelong dream.
But I miss him horribly. Spend a lot of time wishing I could just hop a plane to Oregon and we could be together. Christmas break can’t come soon enough!!
What I enjoy most about having him gone: Eating what I like (sushi, vegetarian, etc.)
What I like the least: sleeping alone (really, really don’t like that one)
Thanks for listening.
It is really a testament to your marriage that you and he are willing to do what is best for him and you long-term. Thanks for sharing.
What a tough decision and undertaking. Congrats on being so supportive of you spouse in following his dreams. I’m so thankful to be married to a supportive spouse who is encouraging me to follow my dreams, so I know how much it means!
What a heroic thing for him to do. I know it must have been a hard decisions, but hopefully it will lead somewhere much greater!
AW!!! So sweet you stayed one more night!! That would be SO hard to let go… but you are such a good wife to support your hubs in this!!
Wow – that’s so courageous (of both of you)! What a tough decision! I’m just stopping by to wish you a happy, happy SITS day – hope it’s really awesome!
This is so very inspiring. I applaud you for being so completely supportive of your family and the both of you for your courage to forge ahead despite obstacles.
As I glanced at the date of the post after reading your blog, I see it is a year later. I wonder how things are going. Helping someone you love achieve their dream is hard, but important. Enjoy your SITS Day.
How incredibly brave and supportive of you. I hope things have gone wonderfully!
I see this post is a year old, and I’m wondering if you two have adjusted and are seeing the benefits of this tough decision. My spouse travels extensively – I sort of have 2 routines: one for when he is home, another for when he is away! Many military wives are in the same boat. Thanks for sharing:)
Hi Seana – Thanks for sharing!! I got used to this type of living as a military spouse and that is how we looked at it, as an extended TDY. It was nice to be able to talk on the phone every day and the hardest adjustment was when he came back. We are about to embark on our third round of this and while I’m not looking forward to it, I’m glad that our marriage is strong enough to handle it!!
My youngest is in grad school and has a 42 year old room mate. Way to go Art and you. Best of luck to both.
Thank you, Tami!!
Teressa,
It’s unfortunate that the Community College system is so misunderstanding… A real life lesson for kids and the importance of grades – they really will follow you. It’s a good thing Portland has a program that suit’s Art’s needs however. I know that this will be a trying time, but it will just make you and Art stronger. I look forward to your future updates on his progress and your adventures.
Steve
So proud of your strength,sweetheart.Art will do well,he was more than ready for this.Stay busy with yor writing and friends and soon he’ll be home with his degree,
Hugs,
mom
Thanks, Mom 🙂
I think the reward is the big payoff and I think the offer of the chicken was awfully nice. Besides just think all of this getting to eat what you want for a year is going to spoil you so bad you might have to turn Art to your dark side, lol.
If Debbie’s chickens were like Gonzo’s chicken Camilla I might go for it. And eating what I want I’m hoping I will lose some more weight while he’s gone. You’re right, Robin, the big payoff is definitely worth it. We’ve got to keep our eyes on the prize!!
I think it’s incredibly awesome and supportive of you to push him to follow his dreams. Recently my husband did the same thing for me about my writing. Nothing makes you feel so good as being with someone who understands your heart and is willing to sacrifice for your dreams simply because they want to see you happy. Good for you…
Thank you, Kitt. He has always been supportive of me, too. And I know how awesome it feels to be doing something you love. Good for you too!!
You will weather this storm and reunite even stronger. Sleeping alone is no fun so maybe I should loan you a chicken to cuddle with a night 🙂 I hope Art knows what a lucky man he is to have your love and support. Hang in there sweetie and stay busy. Christmas break will be here before you know it. (((HUGS)))
Thanks, Debbie 🙂 I think I’ll pass on the chicken, though, LOL.