So, I know Military Spouse Appreciation Day was last week, and I’m a little late to the party. But last week was a little strange for me, because my Grandfather died (peacefully at age 93) and I took a sudden flight cross-country for the funeral. I only took my youngest, and left my other 3 children with friends here on base. It was a little crazy and stressful, but I’m so glad I went. It was very important to celebrate together as a family, and it meant that my mom unexpectedly had all 5 of her children home on Mother’s Day. 🙂

So yeah, that’s what I was doing on Military Spouse Appreciation Day and Mother’s Day. But you know what– I REALLY appreciate the military spouses who stepped up and took care of my kids! Without their help, there is no way I could have flown 5 hours with 4 children by myself. (Since my husband is deployed). I’m a strong military spouse, but not a crazy one! I’m so glad I reached out and asked for help. The military community always amazes me with its generosity. And whenever possible, I try to return the favor to others with a meal for a new mom, cookies for a new neighbor, and a willingness to show new spouses the ropes and the base. And I repay childcare with wine and chocolate.

Anyway, I was trying to participate in the Military Spouse Appreciation Day link-up from Marathons and Dog Tags. So here are my questions and answers:

Tell us about yourself and your blog.
My blog is The Seasoned Spouse, and it is relatively new. I just started it a month ago to share advice and humor from an ‘experienced’ spouse perspective. I have been with my husband since the beginning of his military career, and he is just finishing his 15th year. We are currently going through our 6th deployment together, and have been stationed overseas too! I didn’t think these things were anything unusual in the military community, until we got to this duty station and this deployment, which has a lot of young wives and first-timers. I had been sharing my insights and memes on our wives’ Facebook page, and got such positive feedback and requests for more that I decided to turn it into a blog. So now here I am, reaching out to the entire military community, and reminding everyone that we are all in this together and need to encourage each other along the way.

What branch of military are you affiliated with?

My husband is in the Marine Corps! Lots of USMC Infantry pride here. We also have some experience with the Navy and Air Force, since we have been stationed at a Navy base and worked with Air Force neighbors, as well.

What is one thing you enjoy about the military lifestyle?

I love the sense of community. There are so many good friendships waiting around every corner, and so many opportunities and resources available, too. It’s nice to feel that you are always welcome, and that someone is always going to have your back. We never really go through anything alone, and I like that. I have also loved our opportunity to see the world and live in new places. (Our last 3-year station was in Spain, which was just as amazing as you might imagine!)

What advice would you give other spouses who are new?

Well, that’s a loaded question, since it’s the whole point of my blog! Let’s see, if I had to summarize, I would say:

• Take the time to make friends and learn about your new duty station. These investments will always pay off.
• Military life can be hard, but don’t try to suffer through it alone. Be active, be social, and always ask for help. You will be amazed at the positive responses!
• Don’t focus on the negatives, the sacrifices,and the things you are giving up for your spouse. Always try to stay positive and have a good sense of humor. This will get you through so much!
• Enjoy the time you DO have together, and celebrate everything!
• Be very, very, flexible. Don’t set your heart on one thing, but be open to new possibilities. Things can always change.

Want to see who else is on the link-up? Click the button below! Thanks for stopping by!