Back to School

Yesterday was my first day back in class.  I felt out of practice, frenziedly trying to figure out what to wear, get dinner ready, and get my books all packed up.  I realized I never emptied out my binder from the Spring term.  In the chaos, I left behind my water bottle and mints.  I made sure not to close-talk to any of the students.

It dawned on Bruce and me that last night was groundbreaking, because it was the first time I've gone to work since moving in to the new house.  Hence, it was Bruce and Emmie's first night by themselves at home.  I wondered how it would be, since she's recovering from a virus and was awfully cranky when I left.  Turns out, they had a great time!  They played in the basement and read books together - she "read" hers and gave him one to read, too.  When I came home, the house was tidied up, Emmie was asleep, and Bruce was paying bills.  Wow!

It was nice to feel like an adult again, to be in a position of importance.  It's a confidence-booster, for sure.  I came home, put my work bag down, poured a glass of wine, and put my feet up.

The more exciting news is that tomorrow, it will be Bruce's first day back at school!  He's decided to go back to college!  That is an ENORMOUS deal.  For years he's talked about returning.  He went to community college after high school like I did, but it never captivated his attention.  He's one of those people that was too smart for his own good. He could get an A with his eyes closed, but consequently got bored easily.  Eventually, he stopped going.  He wanted to learn about the world through real-life experience, rather than in the classroom.

As the years went on, he saw that not having a degree often acted as a detriment, especially when applying for jobs or seeking promotions.  With Emmie here now, he wants to provide for her as best as he can and be an inspiration to her.  He talked to his employer, filled out the paperwork, and was accepted for their tuition reimbursement program.  We have to pay it up front, but they will pay back up to 100% if he does well (which I'm sure he will).

Everyone who knows him is so proud, me included.  I look at him, and I marvel at this man I married, who never stops improving himself, who used to put up walls and now walks through them.  He is the best man I could've ever imagined having a family with.  He is already an inspiration to me and I know he will have a great influence on our children.

Bruce, I hope you have a wonderful first day back at school!  You're gonna do fantastic.  It'll be hard work, but it'll be worth it.  You are proving that a person is capable of positive change at any point in his or her life.  We can all take the lesson from you.