Since Martin started work a year ago as a Personal Cruise Advisor, he was made aware that if he continued to work for the company he would have the opportunity to apply to participate in fam (familiarisation) trips. This involves joining a cruise ship, without incurring a cost (other than drinks, souvenirs etc) and being expected to experience, in the form of observation or hands on work, the day to day running of the ship, in every aspect, from dining, to shore visits, to entertainment, accommodation and facilities. Essentially, people who sell cruises for a living are better equipped to do so if they can experience the delights on offer and subsequently relay the details to their customers. It is made very clear, it is not a holiday; it is work. However fam trip places are still much sought after amongst the workforce, so when Martin received the news he’d been selected for a 7 night cruise to the Norwegian Fjords, we were rightly excited.

So my husband is currently on a very big ship. By tomorrow they’ll be in Norway. Am not remotely jealous.

I was asked in the week how I felt about him being away while I was home alone. Would I be okay? Well firstly, I’m not alone, I have the cat to keep me company. I like her more than many people anyway! I did point out that I was on my own for 14 years before I married Martin, and I’m sure I can manage another week. As for my feelings about him being away, seriously, good on him. I never want to be either the needy, or the controlling wife who doesn’t let him go anywhere. And I’d hate that to be reversed if I want to go away. As I do, once a year.

I am so proud of Martin. He’s worked really hard since he started this job, and I know there have been times he’s found it incredibly hard. Periods where he felt like he was flogging a dead horse. Weeks when he put the work in, but just no one wanted a cruise. Times when he saw his colleagues flying high, and he was going round in circles. But he stuck at it. He took on board (pun intended) the feedback from his seniors. And little by little things started to pick up.

Last month he was the top booker on his team. To say that I am proud of that achievement is an understatement. But not only that: he never gave up. Even when everything seemed to be working against him, his tenacity was admirable, and is finally paying off. He’s good at what he does. He’s a natural problem solver, calm under pressure, and is warm and personable with his customers.

Also, I love him to bits.

I can actually understand why people may think I wouldn’t cope without him. Because I have allowed myself to become softer around him than I ever could have been alone. I let him care for me because I can. I never had someone I could lean into like that before. My weird neurodivergent traits don’t faze Martin. I don’t have to mask around him, I can be me in all my quirky glory. What’s important to me matters to him.

And I hope that’s not one-way. I’ve done my utmost to reassure him he is loved and valued unconditionally whether times are good or difficult. I’ve been his loudest cheerleader which seems to be something new to Martin. My hope for him is that one day he believes the positives.

In the meantime, enjoy that unexpected beverage on the company tonight. Have the best week. And I’ll work my way through your list of dinners from hell in your absence 😘