Hey there, fellow military spouses! It’s Natalie, and I’m back with another blog post about navigating this crazy, wonderful life we lead. Today’s topic? The ever-so-glamorous world of deployments.
Deployment Deja Vu
This isn’t my first rodeo. My husband is currently five days into a six-month deployment, and let me tell you, the anxiety snuck up on me a lot faster this time around. Maybe it’s because our little family has grown – our daughter is experiencing her first deployment at the ripe old age of one.
Every creak of the door has her yelling “Dada!” only to see it’s yours truly (defeatedly holding the trash bag). It breaks my heart, but seeing her pure joy when we finally do connect with my husband via FaceTime makes it all worth it.
The Confidence Rollercoaster
One minute I’m feeling like a superhero – single-handedly managing work, school drop-offs, and baseball practice. The next, I’m having a meltdown because my mother in law and her mom wanted to see me and the kids a day after my husband left.
I think the kids are feeling it too, even if they aren’t outwardly expressing it as much. But hey, that’s what makes them kids, right?
Coping Mechanisms: From Care Packages to Convenience
Technology is a lifesaver! We FaceTime, text, and I’ve even started sending care packages (complete with a son-made letter – so cute!).
Speaking of lifesavers, I’ve discovered the magic of meal delivery services. Between work and the kids’ schedules, forget cooking – Home Chef has been a game-changer for keeping dinner on the table (and somewhat healthy!).
The Unexpected Silver Linings of Deployment
Okay, let’s be honest, there aren’t many “silver linings” to a deployment. However, I have been surprised by the sheer goofiness of my little ones. They’ve been cracking me up with their goofy selves. Maybe it’s a way of coping, but hey, laughter is the best medicine, right?
The Finish Line: Bear Hugs and Beyond
Can’t wait for those bear hugs, the ear-splitting “Dada!” from my daughter, and most importantly, just being a family again. Absence truly does make the heart grow fonder, and I know our reunion will be extra special.
Deployment: A Lesson in Appreciation
This deployment has made me appreciate my husband in a whole new light. Those short TDYs of the past couple years seem like a cakewalk compared to this. It’s given me a chance to truly understand everything he does for our family when he’s here.
Military Spouse Strong
So, to all my fellow military spouses out there, I see you! We’re jugglers, cheerleaders, therapists, and short-order cooks all rolled into one. But most importantly, we’re strong, resilient, and incredibly proud of the sacrifices our families make.
So, yeah, deployment is tough. It throws a curveball at your routine, your emotions, and sometimes even your sanity. But here’s the thing: we’re not in this alone. We have this amazing community of military spouses who understand the struggle, the laughter, and the fierce pride that comes with loving someone who serves. Here’s to getting through it together, one FaceTime call, care package, and giggle at a time. Stay strong, mamas (and dads)!
We are one day closer.
Love, N@.
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