A Full-time Part-timer

When we agreed to move to Cambodia, it was with the understanding that Bradley would do his best to secure a part-time position as a teacher, while reserving part of his time to use for church work. After having worked an average of 60 hours a week as an orchestra director, and lending his support to sharing the gospel with others whenever possible, this arrangement sounded like it would be less challenging for our household. In some ways it was less challenging, as it did allow us more time together, but although enjoyable, it was strange to have Bradley home several days a week, especially with my being home full-time. As I had worked full-time our entire marriage, it was odd to suddenly have us available to one another so often. However, his availability was so random, that it was sometimes more difficult than we had anticipated.

Not long after settling into our flat, Bradley was blessed with a job as a music teacher at a prominent school in Phnom Penh, and we were so thankful for the opportunity. The upside was that his work hours would allow a decent amount of freedom for bible studies, travel, and other church needs. The downside was that a routine would be tough to grasp. The school worked on a 6-day rotation with a 5-day work week, and each of the 6 days had a varied schedule. This meant that not only was every work week unlike another, but for 3 of his 4 semesters, his class times fluctuated, depending on the day. For some people this situation might have been a breeze, but not so for us. It is completely in my nature to yearn for and function well within a weekly routine, and Bradley does best with a daily routine. Well, each semester and summer we were abroad, presented us with a new schedule, which meant that neither of us were going to get what we wanted. We had to work hard to face our minor dilemma, and unfortunately we did not always succeed.

Another challenge was that of Bradley's nature. I am so very privileged to have an amazing, hard-working husband who not only wants to work to provide for our home, but who desires to give his all to his employer. Unfortunately, this was the first time since college that he was faced with having more than one boss. Granted, the Almighty was less demanding on him having a set schedule than his principle, but he did not take any of tasks lightly. So often he found himself stressed, trying to fulfill his obligations to both jobs, but often coming up short in comparison with his full-time co-workers. As his wife, it was taxing to watch him go from one day struggling with too much time on his hands, due to a cancelled bible study or meeting, but then wishing he had more time the following day when class, a study, an unplanned meeting, and an after-school program all required his attention. He always managed to take care of business, but I know it was not without a great deal of effort. His example is one that both humbles and inspires me.

I had the honor of attending classes with him a few times during our stay over seas, and, well, I may have taken a few pictures...

Oh the lovely drive to work.

Getting his moto tagged by security.

This picture does not do the building justice.

I was always struck by the western interior of the

school. It made sense, being British, but it was still

strange to walk out of smelly, sweaty, impoverished

Cambodia into a chilly, clean, decorated environment. 

One of my favorite things about Northbridge was

how they made an effort to display their students' art.

A model of the finished site and buildings.

Back into the humidity as we head to the classroom.

Aww, aircon and fans... and instruments!

I love seeing him in one of his elements.

This is one of the many events with which Bradley assisted.

Again, I love the encouragement of the arts!

Another event that involved surrounding countries!

Bradley's group practicing for their performance.

That's a lot of teenagers...

So, we find ourselves back home, and yet Bradley is in a similar boat with being part-time on an irregular schedule. This time though, I do believe we are more prepared. Thanks to our time in Cambodia, we have learned a little more about ourselves, our limitations, and how to be most productive, regardless of our circumstance. Bradley is working nearly full-time at Method Coffee in Dallas (stop by - he'd love to see you), and will also begin teaching private bass and cello lessons for students next week. Since we will be moving again in another 1-2 months, I am waiting until we know where we are going to live before I seek employment. Until then, I am finding the happy, peaceful moments during this stage of transition, and growing in my admiration for my husband and best friend as he continues this stage of life as a full-time part-timer. Cheers!