jetcareers - View Single Post - Is there a light at the end of the tunnel?

Amanda · July 7th, 2006, 02:36

I've been with my boyfriend for almost 4 years. When we met he was a flight instructor (CFI/CFII/MEI) with 400 hours. I've watched his career grow and he went to the Beech 1900 as an FO, then CRJ FO, now he is an ERJ Captain getting PIC time. When we met I think he was making $15k with a HUGE loan. I've had a stable job in the finance industry for 7 years- he kids that I'm his sugar momma. FYI- I don't pay for everything!

He started in aviation in his late 20's - a complete career change. Like many of you, he has always been passionate about flying. He left a great paying job (he would be making 6 figures if he was still there) to pursue his dream. I love the fact that he has so much love of what he does, although he has some tough days. He's at a regional, and he's still struggling financially. He still has that huge loan hanging over his head.

I am lucky since he tells me I am #1 in his life, but I realize that aviation is his "mistress"! His career is important in his life but so am I. This is not an easy life for girlfriends or wives. He recently complimented me since I am very independent and I don't whine about all the time he is away and all of the holidays, birthdays, etc he has missed. Who knows, maybe I'm just used to it by now? He realizes I am special, and I feel the same about him. We know that with patience and time, everything will work out the way it should. There's no rush to get married... that will happen. He is on the East Coast and I'm here in AZ. In fact it has been over a month since we've seen each other. It's hard, but not impossible. We talk, email, text, IM, etc A LOT!

Is it all worth it? I hope so! All I know is that when he talks about flying, he gets a sparkle in his eye and a smile across his lips, and I love that! I also know how much he loves me. The sacrifices are worth it. Again, I sure as heck hope so!

It sounds like you have a good woman. Have her jump on over to Pilotfamilies.com to check it out and get support. It has helped me a lot.
Good luck wit everything!
Amanda

July 7th, 2006, 02:36	#19
Amanda Newbie Join Date: Feb 2005 Posts: 11	Re: Is there a light at the end of the tunnel? I've been with my boyfriend for almost 4 years. When we met he was a flight instructor (CFI/CFII/MEI) with 400 hours. I've watched his career grow and he went to the Beech 1900 as an FO, then CRJ FO, now he is an ERJ Captain getting PIC time. When we met I think he was making $15k with a HUGE loan. I've had a stable job in the finance industry for 7 years- he kids that I'm his sugar momma. FYI- I don't pay for everything! He started in aviation in his late 20's - a complete career change. Like many of you, he has always been passionate about flying. He left a great paying job (he would be making 6 figures if he was still there) to pursue his dream. I love the fact that he has so much love of what he does, although he has some tough days. He's at a regional, and he's still struggling financially. He still has that huge loan hanging over his head. I am lucky since he tells me I am #1 in his life, but I realize that aviation is his "mistress"! His career is important in his life but so am I. This is not an easy life for girlfriends or wives. He recently complimented me since I am very independent and I don't whine about all the time he is away and all of the holidays, birthdays, etc he has missed. Who knows, maybe I'm just used to it by now? He realizes I am special, and I feel the same about him. We know that with patience and time, everything will work out the way it should. There's no rush to get married... that will happen. He is on the East Coast and I'm here in AZ. In fact it has been over a month since we've seen each other. It's hard, but not impossible. We talk, email, text, IM, etc A LOT! Is it all worth it? I hope so! All I know is that when he talks about flying, he gets a sparkle in his eye and a smile across his lips, and I love that! I also know how much he loves me. The sacrifices are worth it. Again, I sure as heck hope so! It sounds like you have a good woman. Have her jump on over to Pilotfamilies.com to check it out and get support. It has helped me a lot. Good luck wit everything! Amanda