Wednesday, October 1, 2008

Sometimes you just don't want to play.

I was not having a particular Semper Gumby day yesterday. In fact, I threw a little fit. I don't normally do that. Actually, I think I can think of maybe only one other time that I have. I like to believe that I am super flexible and am willing to sacrifice. I am realistic despite my lofty ideas and daydreamy nature. I know that the man in blue is part of the Coast Guard and that the missions take precedence over life sometimes. Heck, I am the one who convinced him to stay in for the long haul. He was on the fence, and I gave him a good heave-ho right into to the lifer side. So, I get it and know that I should have bargained for all the bumps. I have a great talk that I would even sit down and give myself if I could self-duplicate.

Still, I am a woman. I am a wife. I am a mom. I am human. That's right, I am not perfect.

If I don't remember to periodically stretch and lather on the lotion, my body and mind gets all out of shape, and I too forget what it means to be flexible.

Events this week made me want to jump chains and "be that wife". I swore I would never involve myself in my husband's career that way (and I really won't), but it has been very tempting. Now, I know. I now can see what sends people over the edge. My issues are inconsequential compared to what other CG families have had to endure, but it can still be frustrating.

Thanks for letting me vent, although vaguely. I am truly trying to regain my composure. Thanks to those who have listened to my whine this week. I assure you, I will make sure to reserve it for only important non-flex moments. I won't innundate you. ;)

For those who are having/have had anti-Gumby moments, bring 'em on. Have a little tantrum, if you need to and if you can, try to reestablish your poise while thinking "it could be worse".

8 comments:

Amber said...

(((hugs)))

We ALL have those moments where instead of being slinky and flexible, we're like the crusty Silly Putty that got left out too long. It's a healthy and natural response to the things that get sprung on us.

It doesn't mean you appreciate the CG any less, and it certainly doesn't mean that you aren't a supportive spouse.

I hope the issue was resolved with minimal butt-kicking required. ;)

Just a Girl in a Port said...

Shoot, I know I'm older than you, but did you have to reduce me to crusty Silly Putty. I am going to hide under a rock now.

And, the issue is still ongoing, we are awaiting word.

Thanks, even though I'm sticking my tongue out at you right now. ;)

Amber said...

The Silly Putty reference was only in regard to malleability. Have you ever tried to play with old crusty Silly Putty?

I have a feeling I am digging myself deeper. LOL.

Just a Girl in a Port said...

Are you toying with my emotions? Get the shovel out girl and start diggin'!

Just a Girl in a Port said...

This just in, a reader email:

RE: Gratitude, playing well with others

"Thanks for the blogs this week.
Even though I'm not married to my coastie, he is 4500+ miles away. So honestly, I haven't been feeling very positive about LDR
lately. It was reassuring to read Just a Girl's blog today."

Thanks for the email and for reading our blog. We hope to bring you more crazy stories and wonderful moments to which you can relate.

C Anderson said...

Hugs. IOU a free butt kicking session, so let me know who to send where and when. That is all.

molls said...

Of course you understand the way things work with CG life, but that doesn't take away from the fact that, like you said, you are human. And a wife, and a mom. Don't be too hard on yourself, you are allowed to get frustrated at this life every now and then. It's not always fun, but it helps keep a balance I guess.

You provide so much reassurance and positivity to this blog and it's readers (and I'm sure the people you encounter in real life too!!), but it's not always easy to take your own advice. Sometimes we just need some time to get the frustration out, vent, and move on. I'm hoping you've been able to take some time to take care of yourself since your post! Sending encouraging thoughts your way...

Offroadjeepgrl said...

I can't tell you how heartened I am to have found this blog. I too, just don't want to play sometimes. Today is one of those days. I feel as though I need to work on my elasticity a bit. I know it sounds silly, but I thought myself to be totally alone in my frustration. Having a place to connect and be reassured really has done a 180 with my positivity and "Gumby-like" qualities. Thank you so much. And I will keep you in my thoughts; we are going through something very hard with the USCG right now as well. Just know that sharing your experience has buoyed me in a time when I felt most alone. Thank goodness for this blog!