We've been spoiled lately. Well, spoiled in the sense that we have had daddy home with us 24/7 for almost four months and we really like having him around. But for as quickly as the work comes to a screeching halt nearly every fall, it begins again just as quickly with a new project a few months later. And when the call comes, daddy responds.
Such is the life of a pipelining family.
This time around Steve will be heading to West Virginia and the countdown to departure has begun. The next four days will be filled with lots of hugs and kisses, playing games with the kids, packing bags, making plans for when we will see each other again, and for me, steeling my nerves for the impending single parenthood.
With two children in a school they love and a home where we can see ourselves living for the rest of our lives, it wouldn't make sense for us to uproot ourselves and travel with him. Summertime and the opportunity to visit wherever he happens to be is only five months away. In the meantime I will be using my little corner of the blogosphere to reflect on this life we have chosen with its ups and downs, good times and bad times, frustrations, victories, and everything else that comes along with this often crazy lifestyle.
Steve would say pipelining gets into your blood. I would say he's probably right, but I wouldn't know any differently; I am the daughter of a pipeliner, the sister of two pipeliners, and the wife of a pipeliner. It's just what we do. It's the Pipe Life.
I had no idea that pipelining is the family business. Something you never think to ask your friends when you are a kid! :-) Was your dad often gone for stretches as well?
ReplyDeleteHe was, Cammie. Generally not for long stretches, but often gone all week and home on the weekends when he was a welder. By the time I was in high school he was doing more supervisory stuff and was home most nights. He keeps saying he's going to retire, but I'll believe it when I see it.
ReplyDeleteWhat a great first post, Jen! I'm excited to be here for you - I know first hand how difficult it can be!
ReplyDelete