November 29, 2011

Homefront

Deployment is upon you. You have packed your bags with extra socks and protein bars. You have your passport and your pocket knife. You went to the pre-deployment briefing and you know your orders. You are ready for the field.

But have you prepared the homefront?

Sure, your wife has everything under control. This isn't the first time you are leaving and it probably isn't the last. She can manage the kids, a job, and the in-laws. She can even pack up your home and move you to the next duty station, all while you're away. She can manage to survive for weeks without hearing from you, but why should she? She will give you a pass if you forget your anniversary, but she will never forget it if you don't. How can you make those holidays extra special? Read these 4 easy steps to find out.

1. Communicate- this one is obvious. Skype, Google chat, Google voice, ichat. Etc. Now you can even video conference on your phone. The list goes on and on. Many countries block one or more of these web services so be flexible. A little internet or 3G goes a long way. But of course, you already knew that.

2 Leave reminders around the house. Fog from her shower reveals a hidden message written in Vaseline on a mirror. Leave one just before you depart so the next morning she isn't so lonely. Leave a personal note in her sock drawer. Change her wallpaper on her computer or phone to a picture of you. It's the little things that count

3. Make lasting memories. Can't find time to take a vacation before deployment? Try a weekend getaway. If time is still limited, bring the vacation to you. Plan a date night and set the stage. Tropical music and umbrellas in your drink may be all you need to simulate a night at the beach.

4. Plan ahead- are you going to miss an anniversary? A birthday? The birth of your child? Gift giving is a great way to show you care. Gifts can be delivered anywhere in the world. Send flowers for every month you are gone to mark the time. Can't find gifts that can be pre-ordered months in advance? See our resources box for more ideas. She will so happy to know she is appreciated. She will be impressed that you took the time to think about how to make her smile. After all, it is the thought that counts!

Mend her broken heart by following these simple suggestions.