Not one for ever being what someone would call a "morning person," waking up in the dark and setting off for work did not sit well in the beginning. However, after getting used to it, and having the opportunity to listen to some great books on CD, I hit my stride. The drive wasn't so bad; in fact there were even times when I was excited to get in the car and head south (depending on what book I was currently listening to). But as time wore on, and the new son, Joshua, came along, sleep was more difficult to come by, and even harder to catch was time with the kids coupled with energy to engage with them. It became increasingly difficult to wake up in the morning darkness and silence, prepare for my day, and slip out of the house without saying a word to anyone of the three people that I love the most. In fact, even as I write this and put myself back in that place, a lump in my throat grows and my eyes water.
As the days wore on, my uneasiness about our future continued to escalate. I would hesitate to think forward, because I was scared of what I saw: a job that did not pay enough to sustain us; and worse, potentially a father/husband who could become distant from his family due to weekdays that consisted of more time in the car than with said family. After a much needed, and much welcome break from regular life, with 2 weeks in Maui with the whole Dalton side of the family, my head was cleared and I was able to think without panic. One of the things that most stuck out to me, was the flexibility in my father's current occupation... A REALTOR! The fact that he was able to spend time with his wife- who is my mother, and time with his friends and us visiting, but still be able to work effectively, struck a chord with me.
After we returned home, the wheels in my head really started spinning. Within days, I began the discussion with my wife, about a career change. Being the cautious, loving and steady woman she is, she gently and compassionately gave me her reaction: "WHAT?!? ARE YOU CRAZY?!?" However, after discussions and the realization that my current job will not sustain us for too much longer, and being the wonderful wife she is, she put her trust in me... no pressure, right? I began taking my Real Estate courses online, and started flying through 'em. About midway through my courses, my employer at the time, obliged me with more time with my family with a lay off; how nice of them, but that's a different story.
I was able to pass all of my courses and scheduled my state exam. I have never been one to shy away from a test, so I was not nervous... until the day came. I wasn't "shakin' in my boots," but there was definitely a weary feeling in me, being aware that this isn't "just a test." My family is depending on me in order to provide them food, clothing and a place to live. Well, the exam wasn't as bad as some had made it out to be, and I passed pretty easily. After the exam, it came time to choose my brokerage. I had been leaning towards Keller Williams, and one other office. I met with a wonderful couple that works with Keller and attends the same church as we do; and I had pretty much made up my mind. After a meeting with the team leader at Keller Williams, it was official: SIGN ME UP!
So here I am. Already, I feel infinitely more fulfilled and energized than when I was stuck in an office. I get to meet people everyday. I get to be outside. I have flexibility to do things with my family. I get to sleep in... until 7:00 am, when the sun is up!! I've even got my own WEBSITE!
I am so excited about what God has in store for me and my family. I am so thankful that He gave me, AND my wife, the courage to make this change at this time.
THE BEGINNING!!
