1
general::
Tests of one's patience or endurance, as in She went through all the trials and tribulations of being admitted to law school only to find she couldn't afford to go. This redundant expression? trial and tribulation here both mean the same thing? is Also used semi-humorously, as in Do you really want to hear about the trials and tribulations of my day at the office?
American Heritage Idioms
2
general::
Phrase(s): trials and tribulations
Cliché problems and tests of one’s courage or perseverance. • I suppose I have the normal trials and tribulations for a person of my background, but some days are just a little too much for me. • I promise not to tell you of the trials and tribulations of my day if you promise not to tell me yours!
McGrawhill's American Idioms And Phrasal Verbs