I started a trip today and had to be at the airport by 1030a. Now, John and I have two very different outlooks when it comes to deciding what time to leave the house when we’re headed to the airport. I look at google maps, then I wonder how much time I should allow for a possible accident or additional traffic, and I have to give the employee shuttle at least a half an hour. Of course, then I need to allow time in case I get selected for additional security screening. So, my plan is to leave 3 hours before I have to be there. John’s plan is not anywhere near as elaborate nor requires leaving as far ahead as mine.

This has caused an occasional disagreement. Even when his timing has proved more than sufficient, I would be stressed. Now, truth be told, he really does allow enough time for us to get where we need to be most of the time. Doesn’t stop me from stressing about it though.

I couldn’t tell you exactly when it happened, but now he simply asks ‘What time are you planning on leaving?’. The answer for this morning was ‘7:30’. When he asked what time I was setting my alarm for and I said ‘6a’ he didn’t even flinch.

A 6a alarm on a Sunday morning.

The one morning he could sleep in. But he got up and made me breakfast and coffee. He was downstairs while I got ready and when I was, brought my suitcases downstairs and put them in the car for me. He kissed me goodbye and sent me on my way.

Did I get to the airport ridiculously early? Yes. Did he give me grief about it? No. (Sometimes he does and that’s okay because I really do waaaay overplan my commute).

So, I am grateful today for the fact that the 6a alarm was as much for him as much as it was for me. On a larger scale, I am grateful for my needs being heard and understood, even when he sees things differently (and gets us to the airport in plenty of time).