![Coffee Date Vol. 12: I Can Do Hard Things... life lately, schedule changes, role reversal, out with the old, in with the new. Learning to be flexible.](https://30c9c8.p3cdn1.secureserver.net/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/RUTHIERIDLEY_060218_NICOLEQUIROZ_31.jpg)
![Coffee Date Vol. 12: I Can Do Hard Things... life lately, schedule changes, role reversal, out with the old, in with the new. Learning to be flexible.](https://30c9c8.p3cdn1.secureserver.net/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/RUTHIERIDLEY_060218_NICOLEQUIROZ_35.jpg)
![Coffee Date Vol. 12: I Can Do Hard Things... life lately, schedule changes, role reversal, out with the old, in with the new. Learning to be flexible.](https://30c9c8.p3cdn1.secureserver.net/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/RUTHIERIDLEY_060218_NICOLEQUIROZ_28.jpg)
I think sometimes as human beings we need to be told “You can do it.” We need to be reminded that everything we need to accomplish (goals, tasks, dreams, just life in general) is within us without us even knowing.
We have entered a very different season with Ben being in the police academy. He’s actually in pre-Academy right now until July, but it is pretty intense nonetheless. I have had to step into an unfamiliar role and he has had to dive head first into the program.
The program is intense and requires 100% attention and focus while in physical training and the classroom. When Ben gets home he typically has several hours of homework after a 10 hour day at the academy. Aside from what Ben is doing we have had to adjust to this new normal. I have very limited access to him via cell which I’m not used to, I’m having to make decisions on my own, again which I’m not used to and the hardest part is doing a lot with the kids by myself. Let me mention that I get a LOT of help from my parents and Ben’s dad, which I am very fortunate to have!! Things are just different now so I am feeling it!
We have been married for 10 years, together for 11. Ben and I did everything together and he also did a lot for me. He cooked most of the meals and took care of things around the house. He’s a very hands on Dad and is not intimidated by trying new things, going on adventures, partnering with me on the blog and other projects. We watched our shows together every night. I’ve been really blessed and spoiled! We also worked in the same building so I got to see him a lot!
This past weekend hit me pretty hard. Ben’s current schedule is Saturday, Sunday, Monday, Tuesday (10 hour days). For the first time ever I did a party for one of the kids without him. My parents were traveling so the thought of having very little help overwhelmed me. It was a lot of work, but you know what, I did it! I have been overwhelmed over the past week or so and missing my best friend but this is what I am learning:
* You are stronger than you think you are.
* Things could be worse. ( Like Ben could actually be deployed but he isn’t!)
* You can do hard and uncomfortable things.
* Prayer is your lifeline.
* Don’t take on extra commitments that you cannot handle.
* Say no when you have to.
* Change stinks but it doesn’t mean it’s bad.
* Hard seasons are what grow and mature you.
* Surround yourself with positive, uplifting individuals.
We are just getting started! The actual police academy starts in July of this year and lasts until December. Ben is doing harder things than he has ever done before and being stretched to his limits. He can do it, we can do it, you can do it! I also realize that my hard is not your hard and vice versa! What hard things are you pushing through right now? As always thanks for stopping by the blog! It means the world to me!
Shop The Post:
![](https://30c9c8.p3cdn1.secureserver.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/Ruthie_Ridley_Blog_Signature_Web_RGB.png)
All photos by Nicole Quiroz
![](https://30c9c8.p3cdn1.secureserver.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/signature.png)
I love that you said prayer is your lifeline. I totally agree! you guys are going through a crazy busy season but you have the right attitude about it all for sure!
loved this!! Thanks for always being so inspiring! xo
You got this! It’s so true, we are stronger then we think and we can always get through something. Congrats to your hubby and it will all be worth it in the end!
XOXO
CAthy
Love your outfit ESPECIALLY the cool shoes! Yes you can do it. I think sometimes we have to remind ourselves. You may need to pamper yourself some, get more rest, pat yourself on the back, take many you brakes even day DREAM of what will be due to these changes.
Love this positive message!
xo
Lacey
A Lacey Perspective
You can do it! It’s so hard when someone’s schedule changes. My boyfriend just got a job that’s Sun-Tues and every other Wednesday from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. I’m already nervous about adjusting our schedule and losing a full day together (I work m-f), but we’ll make it work and find a new normal.
Great attitude and fabulous shoes. I’m about to have a new normal, too, and it’s completely upending everything I know and have built up to now. You’ve got this, though. You can do it.
Prayer is your lifeline! You look so adorable in these photos. I will be praying for you guys as you get through this new and challenging (but exciting) time!
Girl, wow that is a LOT for someone to take on! I needed this reminder today too. <3
You look fabulous in these pictures. PLus you have a great outlook.
❥ tanvii.com
what a wonderful outlook on life, it is something that I love seeing thanks for sharing
come see us at http://shopannies.blogspot.com
Such a lovely post! Love the leggings by the way!
Such a great post!! love the color of your leggings!
GREAT INSPIRATIONAL POST- YOU CAN DO THIS! sEASONS ARE ALWAYS CHANGING AND RECOGNIZE THAT THIS ONE WILL BE BUSY AND HARD BUT A NEW ONE WILL COME SOON!
I love your look here! The pop of color with the texture of the white top is so visually stunning. I can also relate to the adjustment in your life with your significant other at a transitional career point. my husband is going through the same time, and it’s very hard on us all. Thank you for sharing, and good luck!
What a great message Ruthie and lesson you have learned! You two are such a great team and i love it – so inspiring.
xo Laura Leigh
http://www.louellareese.com
Yes this is so true! I love this Positive message! My husband has been helping through this Postpa and feminding Me that i can do this. So powerfuk!
I had to learn this lesson myself during my husband’s military time. i was so dependent on him for certain things i nearly forgot i could do them myself – successfully! you’ve definitely got this !
I’ll be praying for you and your family and this period of transition. this will be such a great new chapter!
This post is so inspiring. Such a positive message. Best of luck with the transition, i am sure you got this! so many things we realize we can do ourselves!
I love these words : “Don’t take on extra commitments that you cannot handle.”It’s a sign of being a responsible and mature person, you have to know what you’re capable of and that you can’t do it all. (Majoy)
such a beautiful and positive outlook! and i totally feel ya girl, way to be inspiring!
ThInking of you during this transitional time- i know i rely on my husband a lot too and im sure tHis will all be worth it in the end!
You have such an amazing and positive outlook on life!
buy domains
win money playing poker
The the next occasion I just read a weblog, I really hope who’s doesnt disappoint me as much as that one. Get real, It was my solution to read, but When i thought youd have something intriguing to mention. All I hear can be a couple of whining about something that you could fix in case you werent too busy seeking attention.
The most comprehensive and very well thought out write up I have found on this subject on the net. Keep on writing, I will keep on coming by to read your new content. This is my fourth time coming by your blog.
This is really interesting, You are a very skilled blogger. I have joined your feed and look forward to seeking more of your magnificent post. Also, I ave shared your web site in my social networks! <a href="https://yourdoll.jp/product-category/140-149cm
Wow, fantastic weblog structure! How long have you been blogging for? you make running a blog look easy. The overall look of your web site is magnificent, let alone the content material!!