July marked one year at our current Army duty station. We have all hit our stride, become comfortable in the community, and are loving the area.

So, would it not make sense then that the notice for assignment and selection boards is now open.

When my husband told me, my heart dropped.

But we JUST got here, was my initial thought.

Then reality sunk in; it is inevitable, and this is part of the process. As my husband and I went over the list and choices, my mind went into prep mode.

As a professional project manager, my stress relief lies in planning (or it’s my anxiety) but either way this superpower has served me well.

After producing the top five likely options, I quickly jumped down the rabbit hole.

First stop, researching housing at each installation. What options are available, floor plans, and post amenities. Second stop, BAH and what rentals are in the surrounding area.

This is a black hole for me because I could look at houses all day. Next are schools, activities, and other area attractions. 

After I have clearly numbered my installation choices in my head, I begin asking my husband all the questions I know he does not have any answers to.

This is by far his favorite part of my process (I hope you can all feel the sarcasm intended). A few weeks will go by, and all this will live in my head rent free- along with all the other items I am currently worried about.

Then comes the purge!

This is by far my favorite part! Assessing our household goods, cleaning closets and drawers, and promising not to buy any more holiday decorations. 

For the next six months this “notice” will be my quiet friend who remains in the background of my thoughts.

If there is anything being a military spouse has taught me, it is you can never rely on plans…so why do I do this to myself?

Does anyone else have the same reaction to notices or even the mention of a new assignment?

How do other spouses keep from going down the proverbial rabbit hole?

Although all this research and prep work in some weird way may subside my anxiety, I know at the end of the day, we have no control or choice on where we will go.

We are going somewhere, I do not know where or when…

But when we get the notice, I will be mentally prepared and ready to go. 

*For more from Rebecca, visit her M:M Author Page.