If you are PCSing this year, then you’ve come to the right place!
Here at Mission: Milspouse, we’ve faced our fair share of relocations, DITYs, government moves, overseas stints, and everything in between. We’ve been there and done that, and we have the stickers to prove it.
With all that experience, we know how stressful it can be. Packing and loading mean moving all of your belongings—special things, irreplaceable things—and none of us really want things broken or damaged. While we can’t ensure there won’t be casualties of PCS, we can help you prepare to make the move a little smoother.
Check out all of our blog post pertaining to all things PCS. Get ready for some practical tips AND insight into experiences of those who have been there, moved that.
We talk a lot about the resilience of military kids, especially during April, Month of the Military Child. And while it’s true that military children can handle the challenges regularly thrown their way, it’s also true that a PCS move can be difficult for even the most adaptable kid. After all, their entire world changes and they’re forced to start over in every possible way: New home, new location, new schools, new friends, and more.
The hacky sack sat plump and unremarkable on top of our entertainment shelf. Our HHG were delivered just yesterday, and of all things, this hacky sack brought the best smirk to my face. Sure, it was absolutely hilarious when our cat shoved himself headfirst halfway through the hole at the top of one of the hanging clothes boxes, but the humor I found in noticing this hacky sack was another thing altogether.
As this marked our third time PCSing together, I won’t claim we’re experts, but we’ve been down this road twice before.
Moving brings on a whole set of expectations, frustrations, and stress. I have yet to meet someone who looks forward to the PCS process. However, I’d like to challenge you to take a fresh perspective into your next PCS season through a new series, The Ultimate PCS Handbook: Take Command of Your Move. This series explores tips from seasoned spouses and veterans who have been there, done that.
On May 22 of last year, we got our OCONUS assignment news!
It was exciting and then it wasn’t.
I was a giant ball of stress for most of our prep time before relocating overseas. I’m not going to say that the instant we landed in Japan was the moment I felt all the stress melt away, but it was close. Let’s say it was our first full day here.
If you’ve received overseas orders, your mind is probably going in about five different directions.
You’re realizing you’re moving far away. Across an ocean.
You’re realizing it’s an unfamiliar place. Like, really unfamiliar.
You’re thinking of all the steps it takes to get moving. So. Many. Steps.
And you’re likely afraid of the unknown. Because, who isn’t?
But I’m here to tell you one simple thing: Don’t be afraid.
A major part of a PCS is coordinating transportation for your family pet. Dog, cat, guinea pig, or bunny, they all need a way to get to their next home in the least stressful way possible. Making plans for their move should be at the top of the prep list, because some trips require timed events, such as vaccinations, quarantines, hotel stays, and airline tickets. Much of this preparation can be started before official orders are in your hands.
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