I have had trouble getting to sleep the last couple nights, my wife is home using up the last of her vacation days before the end of her job contract and is not a happy camper. She has been faithfully applying for every job that has come up, but competition is rough and nothing has worked out yet. On a positive note the unemployment office has offered to pay for an intensive bookkeeping class beginning in April if she doesn’t find a secretary/admin. assistant job by then. This should at least increase her chances of finding work somewhere. I am trying to remain positive about the situation, especially around my wife, who is feeling discouraged in the moment.
In any case I have been giving a lot of thought to the entire situation and am thinking it is best when I tone down my training a notch. I feel it is more important at the moment when I commit more time and energy to supporting my wife, rather then trying to improve my running.
I will continue to run and race, but not necessarily at the intensity that I have enjoyed. Besides, it will be hard to run a PR race when my mind is not concentrated.
I have been trying to talk my wife into taking a Nordic walking course for awhile, I think now I will make the suggestion that we take one together. Maybe it would help her if we could walk out some of her frustrations, wish me luck.
Sorry about the job situation, Jack. I know how that feels. Pretty cool that the unemployment office is offering free training, I don't think there's anything like that here in the states is there?
Kudos to you for cutting back the training to be more supportive at home. I think in the long run (heh, pun) it will help you and her. There's no point in running faster if people at home are miserable.
Good luck!
I think you are making a wise choice Jack. I know how stressful the situation is! The walking class is a good idea. Take care.
Good luck. Viel Glueck. Indeed. Perhaps your wife will be cheered by having free time -- whether intended or not -- now that spring is coming and the weather is so nice. You are impressively dedicated to training, whatever the weather. Not everyone enjoys getting out when it's cold or wet or gray or all of the above. But going out for a walk or a run or a bike ride when the trees are budding and the spring flowers are blooming is far more pleasant. And learning a new sport, like Nordic Walking, might also engage her attention and lift her spirits.
Claire - http://nordic-walking-usa.blogspot.com.
Running and exercise is very important for stress management. I think you're on the right track.
Good job Jack. Keep us informed, we are praying for you!
Jack,
You are a wise man, and a wonderful husband. The Nordic walking course sounds like a great idea! Good luck to your wife, and to you too.
Good luck to your wife and I hope she finds a job soon that she likes. The walking sounds like a good idea.
Your wife should start her own business becoming tremendously successful and then hire you to help manage the place!
If that's not an option then you are a great guy for focusing on her rather than maintaining your training schedule like nothing had changed.
As they say... When one door closes another one swings open. Good luck to your wife on her job search!