What should you expect when your husband returns home from deployment?
You’ve survived 6 months without your best friend and father of your children. You’ve sent care packages, emails and crossed off the days on the calendar, and now your hero is coming home. (If you’re at the beginning of a deployment, read my tips here) But, whats next? What should you expect after deployment?
Homecoming
Many times, we wives tend to over do it on the homecoming. We hire a photographer, have banners and balloons made, invite people over, and plan a party. The fact is, after a long flight, and potential bus ride, your husband will be tired. Ask him if he wants a large celebration, or just a small dinner with the family. Remember ladies, it’s about him.
Unfamiliar Territory
I hope you’re sitting down. Ready? He will have changed. For months, your husband has been surrounded by other guys in uncomfortable quarters and potentially dangerous atmosphere. He may have developed habits, or speech that you dont recognize. You likely have changed your hair, and moved the furniture, and adopted a new routine, as well. You will both need to reintegrate after a deployment.
Reintegration, again
After deployment ends, and the excitement of homecoming is over and the dust settles, you need to find one another again. Not the love letters, or the sleeping in his t shirts, but the relationship you once had. For some couples, this happens naturally, but for many others, it takes considerable effort. I urge you, ladies. Don’t nit-pick if he doesn’t fall right back into the routine. Be patient, be supportive, and just love him. The same with your kiddos. Their relationship may take time to rebuild, but dont rush it.
Conclusion
After deployment, is where the real work begins. My advice: tidy up the house, cook his favorite meal, put on a pretty dress. Meet him with a sign, a kiss and a big hug. When you get home, make room for him to be back in your life. Don’t rush, dont force. Just listen (if he wants to share) and love him.
10 Best Items for a Deployment Care Package He’ll Love
Sending a thoughtful deployment care package to your husband is a powerful way to show your love and support for him while he’s away from home. To help you create a meaningful care package, I have curated a list of 10 essential items that will bring comfort, joy, and practicality to your loved one. Plus I’ve included affiliate links for easy reference.
Disclosure: I may receive affiliate compensation for some of the links below at no cost to you if you decide to make a purchase.
Including a heartfelt, handwritten letter on beautiful stationary, and a cherished photo will really go a long way to remind your service member of the love and memories you share.Personalize your letters and write sweet, supportive messages to boost their morale.
Pack their favorite snacks and treats that will withstand the journey. You can high protein fueling snacks, guilty pleasure snacks, or a mixture of both. You can even send homemade baked goods sealed in a mason jar. He’ll feel like the luckiest guy there.
Include soft and comfortable clothing, thats appropriate for the weather. You can include things like cozy socks, hoodies, t shirts, and breezy shorts in any fabric that will keep them comfortable
Pack travel-sized toiletries such as shampoo, body wash, deodorant, and toothpaste. Things that they use regularly, and will run out of if not restocked regularly. I’m including a kit with classic brands, as well as my husband’s favorite non-toxic brand products
Keep your service member entertained during down time with entertainment options. Include things that he can do alone like puzzles or something he can do with friends like a deck of cards.
Include everyday practical things that your husband will need like batteries, a small fan, headphones, etc. These sorts of items will come in handy at some point, and he’ll be glad you sent them.
Deployments are tough on your service member, consider sending him something inspirational to read, whether that’s a Bible, daily devotional, or inspirational quotes to motivate and encourage him.
Think a small pillow, sleep mask, or calming essential oil rollers
deployment care package, I sent before Thanksgiving
Conclusion
By packing these thoughtful items in your deployment care package, you’ll create a meaningful connection between you and your service member. Remember to customize the package based on their preferences and needs, like these awesome stickers. I hope this list helps you assemble the perfect care package. Stay strong, stay connected, and continue to support each other throughout this journey
For my tips on getting through a deployment, check out this post
You’ve finally gotten past your first PCS, and all the stress is behind you. Now your kids are at school, your husband is at work, and you’re in this new house that feels foreign and strange. How do you make your new duty station feel like home?
You Need a Routine
The first thing I recommend is establishing a routine. It’s important to get back to your schedule when you move. Begin doing the things that were familiar in the past. At your last duty station, if you ran errands on Wednesdays and went to the gym Tuesday and Thursday, try and keep those things consistent. Once those habits kick back in, you’ll start feeling familiar with your new home.
Decorate Your Home
Next, you need to decorate. Picture frames, pillows, blankets, rugs. Whatever you used before, try to incorporate in your new house. Of course, it’s fun to update your home with new items, but you want to recognize it as belonging to you and your family, and a simple way to do that is by bringing in aspects that feel familiar to you.
Explore the Community
If you want to feel at home, you’ll also want to get out into the community. Go out and explore your surroundings. Hike a trail, join the spouses’ club, volunteer at the USO. During the holidays, you can attend a local parade or potluck. See how your community operates and become a part of it.
Make Friends
My final tip is to try to make friends. I know it’s easier said than done, but whether or not you have a support network can make or break your experience. The fact is, your husband won’t be home all the time, and you need someone (or group of someone’s) who can come over for coffee, watch your kiddos while you get a pedicure, or just listen while you vent. Being a military spouse is tough, but we have a built in network of women with whom we can relate if we’re willing.
Moving is stressful, and moving often is difficult, but there are ways to feel comfortable and at home. If you can establish a routine, jazz up your home with some familiar decor, get out into the community, and make friends, then when it’s time to PCS, you’ll wonder how you’re ever going to leave this home you’ve created, that once felt so foreign.
New to the military life? Get my guide with 5 facts about the military and what your husband needs from you HERE
Being a military wife comes with a distinct set of challenges, but it also offers a wide array of benefits and opportunities that make the journey worthwhile. In this blog post, we will explore some of the remarkable advantages that come with being a military spouse. From a strong sense of community to personal growth and unique experiences, let’s dive into the benefits that make being a military wife truly special.
Strong Support Network
One of the most significant benefits of being a military wife is the sense of camaraderie and support within the military community. You become a part of a tight-knit network that understands the unique challenges and sacrifices of military life. Whether it’s through spouse clubs, family readiness groups, or online support forums, you’ll find an incredible support system that can provide guidance, friendship, and empathy.
Health Benefits
As a military wife, you have access to comprehensive healthcare benefits through TRICARE. This coverage extends to both active-duty service members and their families, ensuring you receive quality medical care at a reduced cost, or in some cases, at no cost. Additionally, support services are available to address mental health needs and promote overall well-being.
Educational Opportunities
The military values education and offers a variety of educational benefits to spouses. These include tuition assistance programs, scholarships, and grants, making it easier for you to pursue higher education or advance your career. Whether you’re interested in obtaining a degree, developing new skills, or exploring career opportunities, being a military spouse can open doors to lifelong learning.
Global Adventures
Military life often means moving to different duty stations around the world. This provides a unique opportunity to explore new places, cultures, and gain a broader perspective. Embracing these adventures allows military spouses to develop resilience, adaptability, and a deep appreciation for diversity. Each new assignment offers the chance to create lasting memories and connections in different communities.
Employment Support
Recognizing the challenges military spouses face in maintaining a career, the military provides employment resources and programs. From assistance with resume writing and job searching to networking events and portable career options, these resources help military spouses navigate the job market and find meaningful employment despite frequent relocations.
Financial Benefits
Military spouses enjoy various financial perks, including a housing allowance, access to affordable on-base housing, and tax advantages. Additionally, military families have access to discounted goods and services through commissaries and exchanges, helping stretch the family budget further. To read more about living on your husband’s income alone, click here
Resilience and Personal Growth
The unique experiences and unforeseen challenges of military life foster resilience and personal growth within military spouses. You learn to adapt quickly to change, demonstrate strength during deployment, and develop problem-solving skills. These qualities not only benefit you in military life but also carry over into all aspects of your personal and professional life.
Conclusion
Being a military spouse is a remarkable journey, filled with countless advantages that make it more than just a title. The sense of community, access to healthcare, educational opportunities, global adventures, employment support, financial benefits, and personal growth all contribute to making this lifestyle meaningful and rewarding. While the challenges may test you, the benefits outweigh them, and being a military spouse can be an enriching experience like no other. Embrace the unique advantages that come with being a military spouse, and remember that you are an integral part of our nation’s defense.
Celebrate the strength, resilience, and extraordinary contributions you make alongside your loved ones in service. (Note: Benefits and resources may vary based on individual circumstances, branch of the military, and specific programs. It is recommended to consult with the appropriate military support resources for detailed information applicable to your situation.)
Want to learn 10 medical needs that Tricare covers for military spouses? Grab my guide here!
Military life can be a rewarding and exciting experience, but it can also be challenging, especially if you’re far away from your family and friends. One of the best ways to build a support network and make connections is by meeting other military wives. Here are some tips.
Attend Military-Sponsored Events
One of the easiest ways to meet other wives is by attending events such as family readiness group meetings, unit social events, and community service projects. These events are designed to bring military families together and provide opportunities for them to connect with one another. Its natural to strike up a conversation in a social setting. You’re bound to meet someone.
Join Online Groups
Another way to meet other military wives is by joining online groups such as Facebook groups or message boards. These groups allow military spouses to connect with others who are going through similar experiences and offer a space to share advice, resources, and support. Check out my Facebook group here. You could organize a play date at the park, or host a coffee meet up at your house. Just a few months ago, I invited someone I’d met in an online group over for coffee. It was a great time, and no hassle! Just pull out some cute mugs and whip up your favorite brunch food. (I made these).
Volunteer in the Community
Volunteering in the community is an excellent way to meet other military wives and get involved in your new community. Many military installations have a Family Readiness Group or a Spouses’ Club that helps organize volunteer opportunities, or you can reach out to local organizations to see how you can get involved.
Attend Spouse Orientation Programs
Many installations offer spouse orientation programs or classes (L.I.N.K.S. is great) that provide information and resources about military life, including how to meet other military wives. Attending these programs can help you learn more about your new community and connect with others who are in the same situation.
Join a Gym or Fitness Class
Joining a gym or fitness class can be a great way to meet other military wives who share similar interests. Many installations have free gyms or fitness centers that offer classes, and there may also be local fitness studios or classes that you can join. I made a ton of friends at Fit4Mom classes back in 2016, that I’m friends with to this day.
In conclusion, meeting other military wives and can be incredibly beneficial for building a support network and making connections in a new community. By attending military-sponsored events, joining online groups, volunteering in the community, attending spouse orientation programs, and joining a gym or fitness class, you can meet other wives and build meaningful relationships. Remember that military life can be challenging, but with a strong support network, you can navigate the challenges and thrive in your new environment.
If all else fails, walk outside wearing this, and you’re bound to start a conversation lol
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I'm a wife, crunchy mom of 5, Jesus lover, and homemaker. Join me on this wild journey of moving every 3 years to unpredictable locations as the wife of a US Marine.
