Maybe it was bad timing. Maybe it’s location. Maybe it’s all a myth. Maybe, maybe, maybe…
The thought of moving back to South Florida had me in a tailspin of thoughts. Where would we live? Would we have to rent or could we afford to buy? What schools would the kids attend? How would the kids feel about moving? What about their friends? activities? future plans? Could I find work? Doing what? and where?
Then there was the question of Dwayne’s job security. Sure, he was making good money now, but what if things don’t work out as planned?
I immediately started looking into college programs. With my work experience and 2-year degree, having a 4-year degree should only open more doors, right?
In July 2007 I started the pursuit of a bachelor’s degree in accounting. The logical choice given my background. So, after a full day at work I would come home, feed the kids, and work on homework. Sprinkled in the mix was mowing the yard [about 2 acres], laundry, after school activities, etc.
Meanwhile, Dwayne was living in South Florida and coming home to Virginia when he could. In the forefront was the ever-present concern he would be without a job at any moment as work was sparse. He kept up his spirits by spending time with his kids.
By December 2007 things had fallen apart with the “dream job” and Dwayne was planning his return to Virginia. It was too late to back out of the college pursuit. Debt was already accumulating. Debt and no degree was not an option.
*******************************
Dwayne returned to Virginia in the winter of 2008. He had no job and not much to show for his year away. I was working full time, but things at work were going downhill fast. Everyone higher up from me was either gone or giving their notice. And my relationship with Dwayne could best be described as one frayed string being pulled so hard that it would surely break. Yet, somehow it held.
