Matt doesn't get any paid time off until November, on account of starting a new job last year. Its kind of thrown me for a loop, really, the new job. Or really, the
scheduling of the new job has thrown me for a loop. The entire time I've known him Matt has had weekends off, just like me. Now he has a varied schedule and frequently works both days that I have off.
Its taking some adjustment for me, for us both, really. I want to plan camping trips and hikes and we're just not sure when we'll be able to make it all happen. We had hoped to go out to the national parks in Washington, but that isn't looking likely. So, I am trying to switch gears in my thinking. Rather than fight the way things are and wish it was different I am going to try and embrace these temporary"limitations." I am trying to see it as an opportunity to try new things, to revisit old things. To get outside of my box.
We're going to spend more time birding around town and on daytrips to nearby reserves. We've rediscovered our love of folfing at this fantastic park just 10-15 minutes from our house. I have taken on a stronger role in the garden since we don't have weekend to work together with me as Matt's assistant. That has been pretty cool actually. I've been paying attention to what he's been teaching me all these years and it shows! I am thinking of finally taking that solo camping trip, something I've always wanted to do. (And yes, I know its safer to camp/hike in groups, but I would really like to test myself in this way and certainly will not take any unnecessary chances.) If I am not running off to the hills every weekend I am going to be able to spend more time with friends and family.
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| Nifty purple rocks. |
So, things are good--don't get me wrong--but it has taken me some time to stop always comparing it to the way things had always been. To accept the new normal, as it were, and start making the most of it.
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| I thought these thin layers of sedimentary rock were pretty interesting. Such thin layers! |
We do have a couple weekend gettaways planned and undoubtedly others will pop up due to the nature of the varied schedule. We're looking over the guidebooks and trying to figure out which new parts of Yellowstone we will explore. But, this year we will be closer to home more than not, I think. Its not a bad thing. We love our home! We did pack up all our gear though so that its ready to just toss in the car and go--whenever the opportunity presents itself.
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| This is the 18th hole and is a really fun one. The tee is at the top of the rims and the hole is way down at the bottom. |
Its a mixed bag. Matt likes his job so much more and that is really important to me. He's certainly happier there. But, I do hear those mountains and geysers calling....and have a hard time not just wishing he had the weekends off still so that we could run off someplace. I keep reminding myself how much fun and adventure can be found just 10 minutes or less from my door--that its not like I need a weekend to go on a dayhike or birding expedition. Its all a matter of how you look at things, I think. And I am determined to look for the upside of just about everything, including this rather major adjustment to our schedules.
I can certainly relate! We moved to a smaller town after my husband was let go. We're coming up on four years. We're just starting to travel a bit. Our days off are still opposite; when we don't work we don't get paid. But, we're to the point where we just factor that in. Like you said, it's a mind-set. Spend less here so we can go there. It's all good!
ReplyDelete"Spend less so we can go there." That is just the strategy, I think. That is a great use of my time and money...I can do without a meal out in the interest of saving for an adventure! No problem! I hope you're able to find some days to go see what you can see.
DeleteToo bad, but your attitude is good - you're making the best of it.
ReplyDeleteYup...I'm certainly a make-lemonade type. And nothing lasts forever.
DeleteI am glad you are re-adjusting your attitude to fit your new normal. My family is in a transition time and I have wavered between "it's God's will and it's good." and blubbering uncontrollably. I am trying to come down on the happy side of life (like I read in a children's book called The Laughing Dragon by Kenneth Mahood).
ReplyDeleteJeepers. I am sorry to hear that, Cristy. So stressful--these transitions can be. I hope all lands well. I always say that cliche about how it all works out in the end and if it hasn't its not the end. I hope your family has as much peace as possible while things are adjusting. I do think its all good, but sometimes a cry is good, too.
DeleteOh, and I don't think I know this book. I'll have to check our library!
DeleteIt's a challenge for sure. My ex used to work every weekend, night, & holiday. We rarely saw each other. My BF works Saturdays, but we usually have Sunday off together. Unfortunately, he's a business owner so that can change at any time if someone calls off. Being flexible is key.
ReplyDeleteI think you nailed it. Flexibility is key. That's a good all around life strategy--not just work schedules. But, sometimes easier said than done.
DeleteWelcome to my world! I have so few days off together with my better half and sometimes even then we are just tired or have stuff that has to be done at the house. However, we have explored a lot of central Kentucky and it is amazing how much there is to do and see if you just put on your tourist "hat" and go for it! I"m happy that Matt likes his new job. That is so important for life balance.
ReplyDeleteI guess its an opportunity to fully explore all my more local recreational opportunities. Play tourist, as you say, around town. There is certainly much to be done not far from home. I'm glad you and your partner have found a way to make it work despite the schedules. Its encouraging.
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