The Men in My Life: A Group Hug

It's easy to forget, sometimes, just how blessed we are.  
I am grateful everyday for the love and support of my family, but times like these remind me just how extraordinary they all are.  Take my husband, for example.

My Sweetheart and Me, May 2010

We live so far out in the country, we have to pipe in the sunshine.
Not really.  We get plenty of sunshine, but TV and high-speed internet are only available by satellite.  Cell phone access is sketchy at best and conveniently located universities are non-existent.  Gas is too expensive to commute 200 miles everyday.  So, part of the decision-making process for me when choosing a school involved what to do with my husband.  Do we try to find housing near the school where we can live together?  Maybe we could live out of our travel trailer in a nearby campground?  Or should I live on campus and leave my husband at home?  I left the decision up to him.  He chose to stay at home where he would be more comfortable.  I'll stay in the city during the week and go home on weekends. 

My husband is willing to make that big, lonely sacrifice because he understands how important it is to our financial security for me to further my education.  He also understands how important it is to me individually to achieve this goal.  In fact, he's my greatest supporter.   He's taken an active interest in the enrollment process, discussing my course choices, housing options, meal plans, whether I should take my bicycle...everything.  It's just so sweet and cute when he says things like, "I can see you graduating as the valedictorian of your class."   "Not likely," I tell him.  But I love hearing him say it.  His faith in me bolsters my courage.

Then there are our three fine sons...

Who Gave Them Permission to Grow Up???

They think it is too cool that Mom is going to college.  The youngest will begin his final year at LSU this fall.  I called him for advice on dorm living.   "Be careful, Mom,"  he said.  "If your roommates are underage, they'll try to get you to buy beer for them."  Uh.....no.  Not happening.  I'm not anti-alcohol, but I'm definitely anti-contributing-to-the-delinquency-of-a-minor.  I had to laugh.

The parent has become the child.
I learned today that they've been discussing (behind my back) how to help with my expenses.  The oldest told me not to worry, "We'll get it all taken care of."  I've tried to tell them they don't have to help me, but they're not listening.  In fact, they've informed me that I can no longer dictate how they spend their money.  The nerve!  How dare they speak to me that way???     

It seems the love I've invested in my menfolk is paying dividends. 
"Just consider it pay back," said my youngest.  Would someone please pass me a Kleenex?