My husband left for a mission trip to Peru, South America today. He had been planning on this trip for about a year. We had time to raise funding, get his passport, vaccinations and supplies all together. He requested the time off work far in advance and found people to cover all of his responsibilities for the two weeks he’d be gone. Everything seemed to be in order.
We missed something though. We didn’t prepare ourselves. We’ve never been apart this long. Once we were a few hours apart for 5 days, but that was the single longest period. Aside from that one time it’s only ever been a few days here and there, and even then, we were never more than a few hours apart. Now we’re looking at two weeks on separate continents.
When he left today it shook me. I’m not sure what I was expecting. I guess I thought I’d be ok for a few days and then I’d start missing him. As I watched him drive off I began to cry like I hadn’t cried in a long time and my body tensed with emotion. I love that man; a lot more than I realized.
I was planning on doing a regular post today but I just couldn’t. I write this blog because I like to write, and I like to write about things that matter to me. If you were expecting to get a tip on time management or a neat idea to save money, don’t worry there are plenty of those to come.
Today I leave you with this: a good marriage is worth the investment. Are you looking to invest in your future? Spend more time with your spouse. Do you want a good retirement? Serve your spouse selflessly. Want the key to financial success? Communicate with your spouse about it.
Our 6 years of marriage have brought us through mostly hard times. Since the beginning we’ve been committed to each other and to not only making our marriage work but making it last. If you’re rolling your eyes at me and calling us honey-mooners, that’s ok, you don’t have to take my advice. I can tell you this though, our commitment to making our relationship a priority has paid off so far. Absense is still making my heart stronger.
Why I do what I do ~ Because the man that’s consuming my thoughts knows me better than anyone … and still loves me.
photo credit: gem fountain
If you enjoyed this post you may want to subscribe to free updates by RSS feed or Email.
{ 3 comments… read them below or add one }
Oh Nicki, My heart sunk as I read your post today, you and your family have been in my thoughts today. I know this will sound funny but as I babysit Jack, everytime I looked at him today I thought about your mom, dad and dear husband and how this trip will be hard for you and chloe. If you need anything please call me. I am home all the two weeks alone with Jack. If you need to get out and visit someone to get your mind cleared of thoughts that break your heart. I know first hand how you feel with the long layovers that Lee was on in the Air Force. I am here for you and chloe.
And investing in our marriage is very important thanks for sharing.
peggy lee
Peggy Lee Baker’s last blog post..Taking a few days off
I’m in a lobby of huge hotel with people eating breakfast around me, and I’m fighting back huge tears.
I know the man you married misses you very much and loves you even more. You are a beautiful woman and he is blessed to have you as his wife.
Oh man, now you’ve got ME crying! What a wonderfully sweet post. Your advice about investing in your marriage is absolutely spot-on. I could not agree with you more.
I hope these two weeks fly by for you and that your hubby is back before you know it.
Courtney’s last blog post..My baby’s always sick, and we really need that big stall