Busy Brian

So, life at "The Firm" has been pretty brutal lately, poor Brian. We haven't seen much of him. And sadly, he hasn't seen much of his bed. Each night seems to stretch longer than the last, which seems impossible. But there is a light at the end of the tunnel... this deal is just about over, and then it looks like he'll be able to breathe again. and sleep.

Lots of friends ask, so do you just never see Brian except when you're on vacation together? Well, it's not really like that. On days like today, it does seem like that. But I have to remind myself (and often Brian has to remind me when I forget to remind myself) that this work does have its lulls and its less-busy times, too. It just seems like it's hard to strike a balance -- when a deal's on, it's GO time, and there ain't no rest for the weary. Then, as soon as the deal closes, it's time to wait for the next big crunch. The unpredictability is probably the most annoying part, but once you can cope with that, it is more bearable -- I think? One friend, who is also married to a lawyer, once said it feels like the work comes in waves. A good description, if you can add that a lot of times they are great big tidal waves... but there is an ebb and flow, I suppose, even then.

Tonight a quick list of pros for this busy time of our little life together:

• I think we try really hard to value the time we DO get to spend together, even if it's just a few minutes here and there. I know anyone can say that, and everyone should do that. But I'm glad to count our time as precious; it helps us keep a proper perspective on what's most important.
• Three years down, less than one to go. And those pay checks keep rolling in, helping us get ready for our next steps. Can you believe it was three years ago tomorrow that we flew to London to start our married life together here?! So, we really do plan to leave this job and London by next summer.
• Morning time together is REALLY a beautiful thing! With this job, Brian doesn't leave the house till 9 a.m. or a little later. That means, we generally have a nice relaxing morning with him at home, even if the nights are long and dreary at times. It's great that he gets to be with Sam when she's her most pleasant, happy self!
• It has been really good for us to live here, with so many amazing travel opportunities. Though the work is brutal at times, the memories we've made and the places we've seen are definitely great highlights for us.
• I have really come to appreciate what a wonderful, loving, patient man I married! Brian amazes me, the way he handles everything. When things are really rough at work, he never takes it out on me -- or anyone else, as far as I know. Even when he's exhausted, he always stays positive, and always has time to listen to my "one more story." He puts on an optimistic face, and gets things done in a way that inspires me. I'm so grateful to see his best during the hard times.

That's my little list for now, and I'm off to bed. May Brian join me at some point, for some much needed rest tonight!