Homesteading: A Woman's Journey

Reaching Out

I have been finding the past couple of weeks with Joe gone to be some of the hardest, yet in some ways, the most fruitful of times.  In these past couple of weeks, I have been dealing with the loneliness that comes with having a husband who's work takes them from home for extended periods. 

It is hard when you don't know many people in your area.  Those that I do know are not the type to call or drop by.  Most work or have active schedules so you feel bad interrupting their family time.  Joe's parents live nearby and it is a blessing.  I know that I can call them anytime or drop by and they are happy to see us.  So we are in touch at least every few days, mostly by phone, but we see each other each week also.

In addition to being my beloved husband, Joe is my best friend.  We talk about everything and he has a wonderful sense of humor.  Joe also is one of the most insightful people I have every met.  He thinks things through before speaking, which gives you a strong trust and confidence in what he says. 

For now, until we have more cell phone time, our phone conversations are kept to a minimum.  Most communication is done through email and text messenging.  I can''t wait until we are able to talk on the phone more!  I think that is one of the things that is hardest to get used to.  When you have a husband who is home every night, it is easy to take for granted how easily you are able to communicate.  When that level of communication changes, you realise what you are missing.  Especially when your spouse in your main (or only) confidant.

So, when that readily available communication is not there as easily as it had been, who do you reach out to?  At those times when you are feeling the most alone or when you just need a friend?   On those days when you miss your beloved so much that it is hard to keep the tears at bay.  Where do you turn when you have few in your life who understand the lifestyle that you have?  Or who understand that this is just a period of adjustment that you are going through and will be supportive without condemning your lifestyle?

My comfort has come from reaching out more to the Lord.  Even in those moments when I am feeling alone, I know that He is with me.  He speaks to me through His Word - the Bible - and through the gentle promptings of His Spirit.  I feel the warmth of His Spirit with me at those times when I need it most.  When I start worrying about Joe and his co-driver traveling in the bad weather, I pray and I feel a comfort, knowing that the Lord will watch over them.

This job change is such a blessing.  Not just financially, but in the opportunity for growth in my relationship with the Lord.  Joe also is feeling the Lord's hand in this job change.  It is providing him with opportunities to talk to others about the Lord.  It is amazing.

I am so grateful for the opportunities that the Lord allows to come our way.  I pray that His peace be with you.

Using the Time

10:34, Tuesday, March 13, 2007 .. Posted by Anonymous

Hi Paula,

I've just been reading some homesteading blogs recently, daydreaming about a time when my husband and I can buy a house in the country (after he finishes school in the city). Then I happened upon your blog and really wanted to reach out to you. I know that God sometimes shows us hardships to teach us important things.

When I first read your post, I thought: "wow, God really wants this woman to be aware of what a special relationship she has as a wife to her husband!" But it's also true that by creating a circumstance in which you two are apart, He is also showing your husband how deeply he loves, needs, and misses you. And, it may be that God may be challenging you to reach out to others outside your husband, as I think you are doing through your blog. If your husband was home, it might be that you wouldn't have as much of a need for friends and family. When he is gone, you crave their companionship and love and want to give of your time and attention to them as well.
I hope you don't mind my stopping by and butting in. :-) I just felt called to speak to you!

Blessings,

April

April

02:31, Wednesday, March 14, 2007 .. Posted by oklamouse

Thank you for your kind words. Yes, the Lord is helping so much. My Beloved and I are both learning so much about our feelings for one another. Our relationship has always been close and strong. This situation has been proving it to us.