First really tense discussion with my husband about how my studies are stressing our family. As a couple we don't argue (loud voices, harsh words) but this is about as bad as a discussion can get for us. He feels neglected, he feels guilty for not making more $$ to contribute to the family when I complain about being exhausted, all the standard things you hear nursing students complain about.

It wasn't a great evening, but on a weird level I feel like I've earned a pre-nursing badge of sorts - isn't that strange?

Nursing school is indeed a family affair that takes committment from everyone. I think it's great that you guys are able to communicate like that. Might not change the fact that you're still going to be tired and he's still going to feel neglected, but at least it keeps things in the open.

Good luck. Glad you made it through and earned this badge. :)

Nursing school is indeed a family affair that takes committment from everyone. I think it's great that you guys are able to communicate like that. Might not change the fact that you're still going to be tired and he's still going to feel neglected, but at least it keeps things in the open.

Good luck. Glad you made it through and earned this badge. :)

I'm glad we made it through, but it wasn't without tears on both sides and I feel like crap about it. That badge is definitely tear-stained. lol

I'm glad we made it through, but it wasn't without tears on both sides and I feel like crap about it. That badge is definitely tear-stained. lol

Our motto is "Us against the world." The world and its obligations threaten to pull us apart and make us snipe at one another. That's when we press in closer together. It conserves the strength of the relationship. It's based on trust--trust that you're doing all you can and he's doing all he can.

When you've both done your best and tried your hardest, and that's all you can do, find ways to comfort, compliment, and reassure one another.

In 20 years you can tell entertaining stories to struggling nursing students about how your marriage survived the time the electric got shut off so you could pay your school tuition....

DofR,

Hang in there and keep the lines open. My wifey and I are both prenursing. We both work full time jobs (me as an engineer, she as an ER/ED tech), but we manage. The key, I think, is that we talk a lot. After twenty years of marriage, we told each other that these silly classes aren't enough to tear us apart. We also have three teens at home that are very understanding and do their part to keep the house up. They also think it is cool that their 40 year old parents are college students. :chuckle

I guess what I am trying to say is, you are not alone when it comes to the stresses of going to school and having a family. Remember, anything can be worked through.

Remember also, Sleep is overrated!! :wink2: