Have you ever celebrated a stuffed animal’s birthday? I never have, until a few nights ago.
One of my children recently asked how old one of his stuffed animals was. We came up with the most likely date of receipt (since I couldn’t remember exactly) and he then decided we should have a birthday party for Biscuit.
I certainly still miss living on base and having access to certain things, especially the commissary. But there is a bright spot that has recently come to our recruiting environment—my brother. My brother has been in the army for about 8 years now, and has spent his entire career at Fort Bragg, with my sister-in-law and their kids. But he decided to volunteer to become a recruiter, and is now moving to our area. It’s the first time in nearly a decade that my siblings and myself will all be living near one another, and be able to be there for family events that we have missed out on over the years.
As I write this, tears are welling in my eyes. You, my military child, are 4. Where did my little guy go?
You are none the wiser. You fell asleep a couple hours ago, the words, “I love you, too” barely out before dreamland summoned you.
The USO (United Service Organizations) has been dedicated to supporting service members and their families since 1941. While the USO has stood with military families since its inception, in 2016 it launched a worldwide initiative focusing on programs to strengthen and empower military spouses by connecting them to their social, professional, and community networks. Additionally, in recent years, the USO has bolstered its military family programming, offering a wide-range of options serving the entire military family.
Boundaries. Maps have them. People need them (probably way more than they realize).
What are personal boundaries you may ask? They are expectations and needs that help you feel safe and comfortable in your relationships.
Expectations in relationships help you stay mentally and emotionally well. Knowing when to say “yes” or “no” is an essential part of feeling comfortable when interacting with others.
I remember learning of Clarissa Harlowe Barton, better known as Clara Barton, in elementary school. Photos of her depicted a graceful woman with perfectly-braided hair pinned up elegantly on the back of her head, wearing a large dark gown and a gentle smile.
As children, we learn of her contributions to American history through the founding of the American Red Cross, but it wasn’t until I started volunteering for the organization that I unearthed the magnitude of her efforts and how it led to the organization I hold so dearly today.
We follow a fun Christmas tradition in our household, one I realize many of you may do as well. Beginning on Dec. 1 each year, my children take turns opening one wrapped Christmas book every night before bed, and we read it aloud together. We continue this every night until Christmas morning. The kids love opening the books they’ve seen and read, time and time again, reacting as if it’s the first time ever! Unwrapping a gift or opening a gift bag is always exciting, and snuggling up together for a good read never grows old.
For me and so many others, the stress of the holidays can take away from the enjoyment of the season. It can be especially stressful if you have to split Thanksgiving or Christmas between different groups of family members (for example: parents and in-laws or parents who are divorced) or accommodating older children with their own families and in-laws. As it turns out, a family meeting can help.
Sometimes, I enjoy the simplicity of staying in a tiny place, whether it’s a guest room in a family home while on R&R, a calling a hotel home while traveling, or a temporary lodging facility (TLF) on an installation during the transition of a PCS. Maybe it’s even a cramped apartment while stationed overseas. Sure, it can be a challenge as family members trip over each other while getting ready in the morning, or figuring out sleeping arrangements, or having six family members share one bathroom.
But, I also appreciate how small spaces can actually tend to alleviate a little stress.
Mission: Milspouse is a
501(c)3 nonprofit organization.
EIN Number: 88-1604492
hello@missionmilspouse.org
P.O. Box 641341
El Paso, TX 79904