“I feel so much less stress,” said Kristen. “I think it’s less burnout in so many ways. Just having that additional day has been really gratifying.”

The flexibility has also given them time to work on their small farm, for Eric to volunteer with the local fire department and to help them support their kids. They can more easily attend soccer games and events that entail traveling to other islands and would previously have required taking a vacation day.

“They get a little bit more of our time, which is pretty vital,” Kristen said. “We have two teenagers and they still need you an awful lot. It’s great to be able to be present for them and to go cheer them on.”