There are many reasons why we moved, but this is one of the most important ones.

This evening after work, Tim texted me to let me know he was on his way home. I texted back that we were at the pool and that I was sure the kids would love if he could drop by. A little while later he pulled in at the pool without the kids noticing. When he walked through the door, one by one, the kids started squealing “Daddy!!” and threw themselves into his arms.

This guy doesn’t get enough credit for the hard work and sacrifice he has done for our family. He gets up before sunrise, works long days, and comes home exhausted, but excited to spend time with his family. For about four years, his days included at least three hours on the road each day to get to and from work. His life was a whirlwind of traffic, work, and a blur of sleep. It was hard on us, but it was especially hard on him as it meant he missed a lot at home.

He’s now only 25 minutes from work, which means he is home a great deal more. We even drop by to visit him at the shop sometimes just to surprise him and say hello.

This evening I came into our room to see him and Baby E curled up on our bed, flipping through the fungi book. I watched and smiled as Baby E asked about each one, repeated the things his daddy said, and posed questions to be answered. He was eating up every minute. I think they both were.

Moments like that remind me we made the right decision. Hands down.