So I Married An Arborist....
When you were a kid did you talk about how someday you wanted to marry someone who knows their way around an elder pine? Did you dream of learning about chainsaws, flip lines, and polyester climbing ropes?
If you are tying the (prusik) knot and getting hitched with an arborist tree specialist or tree surgeon, there are some things that you will need to think about and learn to understand. The good news is that most of these things shouldn’t be too difficult or complicated.
If you remember these tips, you will be on your way to a long, happy life with an arborist.
Try Not To Get Jealous Of The Trees Or Their Tools
Most tree specialists didn’t stumble into arboriculture by accident. They probably are pretty proud of their work and love trees. Arborists tend to be very passionate about their work and all that it entails. You may find that they sometimes talk about trees in a way that sounds borderline romantic, but don’t worry; it’s not like that. The good news is that you are marrying someone who is passionate and cares about something deeply.
Also, try not to freak out about how many tools they buy. It’s not THAT weird for an arborist to need six different chainsaws… we promise. You may find that all of a sudden there are a lot of carabiners, snap-hooks, and positioning lanyards in your life. It is something you will just have to get used to.
Look Forward To Your Partner Staying In Shape
Tree work is very physically demanding. It requires climbing skills, strength, exceptional balance, and endurance. As long as your partner is an arborist, you can expect that they will stay in good shape.
Stock Up On Supplies
If you find your husband raiding your nail polish remover supply, don’t be alarmed. He is probably just trying to get tree sap off of his hands. Try not to get too mad about it.
Here Are Some Things You Will Want To Keep Around:
- Soap
- Band-Aids
- Sun Screen
- Laundry Detergent
- Coffee… Lots Of Coffee
- Rubbing Alcohol & Nail Polish Remover
Learn A Little Bit About Tools
When your anniversary, Father’s Day (or Mother’s Day to be inclusive), birthdays, Christmas, or Valentine’s Day is coming up, it will help you a lot to know a little bit about tools. Learning a little about the type of work your partner does will go a long way.
If You Have Kids, Be Honest About Risks
Your kids will hear terms like “safety lanyard” a lot and sometimes they may even hear about workplace injuries. It is best to be honest and upfront about some of the risks that tree work can present. If you try to hide these things, it will likely make them more scared, and feel like secrets are being kept.
At the same time when you talk about these risks, stress the fact that arborists are very careful at work and care about safety. Be honest but calm when talking about these things.
Learn To Love The Smell Of Wood
Luckily most people like the smell of pine and fresh wood, but if these are not your favorite smells, you will want to learn to love them.
Don’t Worry If Your Partner Starts Saying Things That Sound Really Weird
Does your significant other talk about tying up their partner? Do they mention tight rotten crotches, beaver harnesses, and amber balls? None of these things are as troubling as they sound.
We promise.
Expect Them To Be REALLY Tired After Work
We already discussed the physical demands of tree work. Just remember that arborists don’t work desk jobs. At the end of a long day, they are going to be really sweaty and really tired. This may be a little frustrating or disappointing, but try your best to remember what type of work they are doing.
Remember To Appreciate Your Partner
This is more general relationship advice than anything, but remember to appreciate your partner for who they are. If you value having someone in your life, make sure that you tell them often.
For arborists in particular, working those long days and facing more risks than most people, it is important that they know that they are appreciated at the end of the day.
Above all, most happy marriages are based around healthy communication and two people reminding each other that they are valued. When it comes down to it, most of these tips are about letting your partner know that you respect and appreciate them for who they are.
