The Agony and the Ecstasy

Today is the first day of the rest of our lives.

Corny, I know, but so very very true! Yesterday was SOB's last day as a fellow. The next time he steps into a hospital, it was be as an attending cardiothorasic anesthesiologist. He has worked so incredibly hard for the last eleven years to get here, I can't imagine what he must be feeling. I know that personally, I am feeling an overwhelming sense of pride, and more than a little relief.

I'm proud because not only did he complete his training, but he did it with more than a few high marks. He was chief resident. He passed his cardiac anesthesia boards a full year before any of his peers even took the exam. He's published in several journals. He's won numerous awards.

The relief is a little more practical. Residents and fellows don't get paid much, and med students don't get paid at all. Ever since we moved in together back in '98, money has been an issue. Granted, we were never dirt poor or living off of canned goods, but we were living on credit. I guess technically we still are, since SOB won't get his first 'big boy' paycheck until the end of July, but you get my point.

Aside from the house, neither one of us is planning any big lifestyle changes. No new cars or fancy gadgets. We're just planning to pay off our loans and start saving for our kids' future. Maybe our retirement if there is any left over.

All we need to do is imagine the day when the mail comes without any credit card bills, and we both bust into huge grins.

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