Highs and Lows

Today is one of those days where I got to experience both the highs and the lows associated with the Hubster's long distance job.

Our income has finally reached the point where we feel comfortable and not pinched. Today, I had new tires put on the car. When I received the bill, I paid it casually, with no concern. A year ago, I would have been sweating bullets and sick to my stomach, wondering how I was going to feed the family this week. I likely would have found myself selling soda cans for gas money, using our last $20 to buy a boatload of ramen noodles, and pondering the merits of prostitution. Instead, I had lunch at a restaurant.

I rode the high of this feeling all day.  Until I picked up my daughter from school.

After she got away from school, into the safety of the car, she became wracked with sobs. Missing her daddy. Yelling at her brother, because she was so upset. When that happens, I just don't know what to do. The only solution I can offer is to let her call him, which she always turns down for some reason.

I don't know why, but I end up feeling like it's all my fault. My fault he's out there, my fault my kids are on an emotional roller coaster. My fault that sometimes I'd rather trade that time with my spouse for a little financial comfort. Even though I have the feeling we'll all be paying the piper for it later.

But I'm not sure why I take on that mantle of responsibility, when it was a joint decision. I guess because I'm the one here, dealing with it. Acknowledging that fact doesn't really make it any easier though.

I guess it's just life. You have to live it, to see how it turns out.

My blessings

Today seems a good day. The snow is ankle deep outside. The kids and I made a mini-snowman, and took a walk in the woods.

I like this time. There's nothing pressing. Christmas break has started and my daughter is out of school for two weeks. I'm sure we'll all get cabin fever and be tired of looking at each other soon enough. But for today -- nothing pressing, no work today, a silent, snowy world outside, and several mugs of hot chocolate -- life feels like a Snuggie.

I have hopes of cuddling up with the kids and watching a movie soon, and of fixing breakfast for supper -- scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, pancakes. I am so thankful for my family today.  I received a voice mail from my husband this morning in which he first imitated the kids clamoring to go outside and play in the snow, then reminded me to be patient and remember what it was like to be their age and how exciting snow was.

It was so touching, to know that knew EXACTLY how my morning  had gone, and wasn't upset I hadn't called yet. That he was thinking of me, and knew how to encourage me. Brings tears to my eyes still, just thinking about it.

I am just thankful today. For my home, this snow, this slowing down of life, my husband, my kids and my life. Thank you God, for all my blessings. Amen.