Reunions after a long season can be downright awkward, and if it happens to you, you're not alone. It's easy to forget that fishermen are readjusting to land life – daily responsibilities and waking up at regular hours – while partners of commercial fishermen brace for an extra decision-maker and learn to share the bed again. Below are a few tips for a smoother transition that I hope you'll find helpful, too!
7 Fish Wife Tips for Reconnecting After a Long Season (Because Sometimes it's Weird)
1. Give yourselves two to three days to adjust to living together again. If you can take off work, do it. One partner of a commercial fisherman calls it "Homecoming" and blocks the calendar so as not to feel "pushed out of my routine or stressed. We can relax, have slow mornings, and reconnect at a reasonable pace."
2. Give each other grace and refrain from hurt feelings if your partner needs a little time. Put yourself in their XTRATUFs – after a long season in cramped quarters, fishermen may want actual space for a change. And fishermen, think of all the responsibilities your partner took on. Respect their flow, and know you'll have your place in it again. It's helpful to set a time later in the day to connect so you're not waiting around and building resentment. (It's a thing!)
3. Make reservations at your favorite restaurant and agree to turn off your phones.
4. Choose a show or movie series to binge-watch together or books if you like to read. Shared entertainment is a common ground to reconnect outside work and family, like a communication prompt for couples. Bonus: cuddling ensues.
5. To maximize quality time, prep or pre-make meals if possible. If you enjoy cooking together, stock the kitchen ahead of time and make it a date night.
6. You could also make it a spa night. Search for those extra masks and moisturizers in your bathroom cabinets, grab some massage oil (olive or coconut oil works), and slice a few cucumbers for your eyes (adding leftovers to water glasses). If your partner opposes, reiterate the massage. Who would say no?
7. If date night isn't possible, play "your song" for a quick slow dance. As cheesy as it sounds, it's a sure way to lock in a few minutes with the best catch of your life. Remember to seal it with a kiss.
What's your favorite way to reconnect before, during, or after the season? Please share in the comments below!
For more fish wife tips, visit www.meganwaldrep.com.
