Oh… Military Life! This is likely what brought you to Mission: Milspouse in the first place. It is what binds the military community together with its wildly unique lifestyle.
Whether you are here to learn how to better live in this military life, how to support a loved one who is living the military lifestyle, or to see if this lifestyle is something you may like to be a part of, you have come to the right place.
Here at Mission: Milispouse the military lifestyle is what inspires us, drives our home lives, our moves, and our service member’s career, and gives us a camaraderie like no other. So welcome friend, take a seat and read more about all things that make us who we are and make the military lifestyle a life like no other!
Ah, February: the month of Valentines and all things hearts and love. As I was thinking of this charming holiday, I began to ponder all the things I love about each duty station in which we’ve lived or some of the extra places we’ve travelled in between. There is so much to admire about each: the attractions, museums, beaches, restaurants, and oh, those coffee houses and treat shops—what I really adore the most!
“Self-care” is a phrase people talk about a lot these days, as we all coping with the uncertainty and pressure of the ongoing pandemic.
The idea seems simple enough. Take care of yourself. Make sure you have breaks during your busy day. It’s the whole idea of “put your oxygen mask on before you assist others with theirs.”
So, we all know we need to practice self-care. We know the havoc stress, burn out, and endless to-do lists can wreak on our mental and emotional health. Why, then, does self-care often feel like another chore? One more worry gnawing at the back of your mind. For military spouses especially, finding time for self-care can feel impossible.
What does being a military spouse mean to you?
I have asked myself this question several times. And as I continue my journey as an army spouse, the answer to this question continually changes. Being a military spouse is not an easy role. When I’m having a particularly tough day, I like to ask myself this question.
I look forward to holidays and celebrations, in large part because I know the holiday-specific meals are coming.
Or, I used to.
Military life has changed those meal traditions a bit. Often, my husband isn’t home, and honestly, he’s the better cook.
Now, six years into this life, I don’t mind. In fact, I’ve come to enjoy the spontaneity of holiday celebrations.
How did I, someone who loves to do certain things annually, come to grips with and come to appreciate that no two Valentine’s Days would be the same?
My pining for the past was redirected to appreciation for the present and eager anticipation for the future.
Yes, that title is a favorite Less Than Jake lyric of mine. But this month, it is most definitely true. February holds my favorite day of the whole year—the day my husband and I met. And this year, we’ll have known each other for 10 whole years. More than a quarter of our lives, by just a smidge. Gosh, I love that so very much. Congratulations to us!
Growing up in a military family as a daughter, and then marrying a military man, has given me great insight and understanding of the word change. I learned that a PCS is a physical move, and with a PCS comes a change on many levels—a change of duty station, a change of climate, a change of housing, a change of friends, a change in a marriage relationship, a change of schools for children, and the huge life-change that comes with deployment of a spouse. Other major life changes we may face include retirement, downsizing, divorce, death of a loved one, health issues, or a broken relationship.
For many women, change is expected, anticipated, and planned. For others, change is unexpected, challenging, and an emotional struggle. Change is a small word with a big impact. Sometimes we are blindsided by what’s coming, other times we hit it head on. We either react or respond. Here are some common reactions to change.
Mission: Milspouse is a
501(c)3 nonprofit organization.
EIN Number: 88-1604492
hello@missionmilspouse.org
P.O. Box 641341
El Paso, TX 79904