I realize it has been six months since I’ve written here. It’s been a long six months. My husband is on a restricted posting. He left in early July and returned for the Christmas holidays – five months away. It hasn’t been easy, but it hasn’t been too bad either. Here is what’s been happening.
In August, we had a family wedding in Hamilton, Ontario. It was a fast trip, but the driving was pretty easy. On the plus side, the kids are old enough to drive now, so it wasn’t all up to me. It was nice to see family members again. Some of them we hadn’t seen in 10 years or more.
In September, our older child moved in with me. With only one credit to finish their degree, it made (financial) sense that they move in until they graduate and find full-time employment. Also, having them here keeps me company. It took a few weeks before their cat and our dog started getting along, but now they tolerate one another’s existence.
Our younger daughter decided to join the army reserves. She spent most weekends training, so she didn’t visit as much in the fall as in the summer. However, she did come to Ottawa every weekend that she was not training.
On a sad note, one of my uncles passed away, but now that I am so close to where I grew up, I could attend the memorial service. I saw cousins I hadn’t seen in over 30 years. We’ve connected on social media, and I’ve had the opportunity to meet up with them for coffee. It made me realize how hard it has been to be away for so long.
I’ve been working for my clients for most of the past five months. Keeping busy and keeping the mind occupied is a great way to not feel lonely.
Fortunately, December rolled around quickly, and my husband came home for a few weeks. Of course, after travelling for over 24 hours to get here then having some dental surgery the day after arrival, he ended up with a bad cold. Then, I caught it. We weren’t that sick, just too fatigued to do anything but watch movies. At least we were together, and that’s what matters.
He has returned to his post, but his next vacation home is only weeks away instead of months. However, the next two trips home will be paid almost entirely out-of-pocket. The flights are about $5000 CDN return, so we’re trying to save money. And in case you’re wondering… yes, he’s worth it!
Canadian Army Wife 