Sorry I am late with my blog. Life has been crazy! Phillip (my husband) is gone on his deployment, and I have taken a cross country trip with the girls to be with our friends and family for the summer. You can read about my trip on momsmakememories.blogspot.com
So I have decided to write about my suggestions for surviving a military deployment.
Phillip has been in the military for 10 years now. For the last 3 years he has been away from the family anywhere from 4 months to 9 months at a time. It can be quite difficult at times, but we always make it through each deployment or TDY a little bit stronger than before. It requires love, patience, commitment and prayer.
I have only 3 suggestions currently to help military Mom's out there. This obviously applies to any Mom/wife that is trucking it alone. The suggestions seem very basic. But they have helped me manage my trials each time.
1. Surround yourself with friends and family. For me, common sense says... don't try to do it all alone. Every one needs someone to be by their side. That can be a good friend, a mom, sister, neighbor. Whom ever you can think of that helps aid comfort to your loneliness, stay by their side.
2. Exercise. It is medically proven that exercise increases endorphins and helps lift your spirits. Everyday I try to exercise for at least 30 minutes. Exercise also helps boost your self confidence. A very good thing for every woman out there!! Also it increases your energy levels. It does for me at least. You can get your daily dose of exercise in a variety of ways... i.e. a walk, swimming, weight training, hiking, taking your kids to the park, bike rides, the list goes on and on... you get the idea.
3. Keep yourself busy. The only way for me to keep sane and forget about how badly we are missing Daddy is by remaining occupied the majority of each day. Going to different friends and family members houses, swimming, going to the park, library, shopping, doing learning books with the girls, reading. I find anything I can to keep my kids and I entertained.
Time away from a spouse or loved one can be difficult and yet rewarding at times as well. Time apart really does remind you how much you love, and need that person in your life.
So I wish you all well and hope you have a great summer full of excitement and love!
Jen
