I'm trying real hard to be the Shepard.

[Mtnman]

Been traveling the last few days for work. It's been another nice break. Weird thing is my MIL traveled with me to meet up with an old classmate. We had a long discussion on the way out. W has been telling her how well she and I are getting along. W made special mention of our anniversary day at the chapel we were married. MIL thinks w will come through this and we'll be better for it. I hope she's right. MIL has suffered from depression off and on for years. She always blamed the, now deceased, FIL. She's beginning to realize it wasn't him. Funny how that works. The few who know things aren't great at home can't believe MIL and I can exist in a car for 6 hours out here and then 6 hours back.

W texted me everyday about her job and how she hated it, wants to quit, etc. At least there's a different target for her situation now. I'm sure it'll be me as soon as I get home. Haha! I validated and encouraged.

Went shopping for me while out here. I'm starting to do that more now. Used to come home with gifts only for her. It's been nice to take care of me a little. And the boys, they always need clothes.

Part of my trip this week included giving a presentation for about 100 of our customers. My part takes about an hour. I decided to go with a bowtie! Who knew it was making a comeback?!?! Anyway, the boys got in bed late (shocked) so I didn't get to show it to them on FaceTime. I sent w a pic so she could show them this morning. She couldn't believe it, but said it looked nice. I'm the type that would never in a million years wear anything but a necktie. I'm sure she's wondering what happened to me. I'm considering wearing it for our church directory pictures. I have a feeling she may not like it so much then.

Traveling back today. Miss my boys but also miss the fact that W isn't waiting to see me. Maybe one day she will.