Getting Started

I decided to start this blog as a way for our family to communicate with my husband while he is in Iraq serving with the 34th ID and for him to be able to communicate with us back home. We have started preparing for his departure in February, 2 months away, 8 weeks, which is better to say. Which way sounds like it is farther from today? Months, weeks, days, I don't know if any way is actually better.

Yesterday we traveled to Minneapolis to get information and support from his Unit (34th ID or Red Bulls) and the Family Readiness Group (FRG) for the upcoming deployment. It started with introductions of those individuals in charge of the deploying soldiers, those who will be at the base in Minnesota and those who will be supporting the families while the deployed soldiers are away.

For those who had children, they had an age specific day care set up and we were able to put our kids, Max, Colby and Sarah with other kids so John and I were able to take in as much as we could that was made available.

We started by taking a workshop about his change in pay, then a workshop on putting together a budget and lastly one called "Here We Go Again" specifically for those who have done this before. That would be us! The day was long but definitely something that was not done by his Unit he deployed with back in 2003. This process has come so far since then.

John and I were able to get information about insurance, support groups, employment help upon return, and VA services. The one thing that stands out in my mind and I will be forever grateful about is how they treated our kids. Max, Colby and Sarah all came out of their playtime with backpacks full of things just for them; a book about deployment, disposable camera, how to help around the house, etc. The backpacks had Heroes "Military Kids" on them and it just made me glad to know that the discussions have started with them and they now know they are not alone and there are many out there they can talk to, not just Mom and Dad.

I have 8 weeks to make the most of our time, having fun, not letting things get to me, etc. The true effect of his looming departure has not set in yet, but I am sure that day will come. Until then, it is life as it has always been, chaotic!