Countdown to DH's Return: 363 to Go!

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Discussion Overview

This thread centers around the experiences of military spouses coping with separations due to deployments. Participants share personal stories about their families, the emotional challenges faced by children, and plans for future visits. There is also mention of personal business endeavors within the context of these challenges.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based

Main Points Raised

  • One participant, identifying as a military wife, shares her experience of managing family life during her husband's deployment to Korea and expresses excitement about planning a trip to visit him.
  • Another participant, also a military wife, relates her own experiences with separations and offers emotional support, emphasizing the difficulty of such situations.
  • Several users mention the emotional impact on children, with one participant describing her oldest son’s sadness and longing for his father.
  • One participant expresses admiration for the dedication and sacrifices made by military families.
  • Another participant shares their experience of using technology to maintain communication with their deployed spouse, highlighting the importance of staying connected.
  • One participant discusses their plans to explore the local area in Indiana as they prepare for a future move, indicating a proactive approach to adapting to changes.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ among participants regarding the emotional challenges of deployment, with some sharing similar experiences while others highlight unique aspects of their situations. No clear consensus emerges on coping strategies.

Contextual Notes

The discussion reflects the shared experiences of military spouses, particularly regarding the emotional toll of deployments and the strategies they employ to manage family dynamics during these times.

Who May Find This Useful

Military spouses and family members may find the shared experiences and emotional support within this thread relatable and comforting.

A
ahammons
Messages
762
363 to go! (Technically 333 if you don't count his mid-tour :D) DH left for Korea on Tuesday, and we are now completely moved! So far, the kids are taking it okay - but I don't think they've figured out that we're not here for a visit quite yet. Of course, they've been asking for Daddy, but they haven't been too upset by it...yet! We'll probably see him in about 5 months though. :) We are trying to plan a trip for me and the kids to fly over right before Christmas, so that we can be with him for a week or so. I can't wait!! Let's just hope that the kids behave on that long plane ride - they've never flown before!! :eek:

On a PC note... :D I finally found out who my hospitality director is, and I can't wait to meet her! I'm really hoping to focus more on my business in the next year; I think it will take my mind off of things and keep me busy.
 
I'll be keeping you in my prayers. As a fellow military wife, I understand all too well the separations. How old are you kids? My son was 3 months old when my husband deployed to Iraq the first time for a year...and then was 2 1/2 when he deployed the second time for a year. (the second time was harder obviously cuz he (our son) was older. Take care, and that's great that you guys are already planning a trip over there for Christmas..!!! :)
 
I can't believe the dedication and sacrifice military families make for me and the rest of our country. I have such an admiration for all of you! May God bless you and your families ABUNDANTLY!
 
Ashlee,

If you need anything let us know! As another fellow military wife, and several more on here, we will do anything to help. Come here if you just are having a bad day and need to vent! Remember to take one day at a time, one week at a time, etc. I know what it's like to look forward to garbage day because that means another week has gone by! My husband is deploying in about a month. We have a little guy that is not even 2 months old yet.

Just hollar if you need anything!!!
 
The Furry Guy was a marine when I married him. We've been through a few of those separations. I won't say I know what you're feeling because every situation is different. What I will say is that I know it's difficult, and you will be in my prayers.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #6
Thanks everyone! I really appreciate the support and prayers. Today has been the toughest for my oldest son, so far. I think he is finally realizing that DH is actually going to be gone for a while. He was carrying my cell phone around earlier (it has a picture of DH on it), he kept showing it to everyone saying "Do you see my daddy? This is my daddy!" It was cute, but sad at the same time. He's barely eaten since we've been here, and at dinner tonight he looked at me and said "Mommy, I'm really sad" then started crying. Right now my FIL is taking him for a ride in DH's truck, so I think that may help him - that's one of his favorite things to do. My youngest keeps walking around the house in the evening looking for Daddy - I feel awful b/c he's just too young to understand what's going on.

calebsmom0822 said:
I'll be keeping you in my prayers. As a fellow military wife, I understand all too well the separations. How old are you kids? My son was 3 months old when my husband deployed to Iraq the first time for a year...and then was 2 1/2 when he deployed the second time for a year. (the second time was harder obviously cuz he (our son) was older. Take care, and that's great that you guys are already planning a trip over there for Christmas..!!! :)
Click to expand...
They are 3yr and 17mo. My oldest was 2mo when DH went to Iraq. Luckily, he hasn't been back, but he has been gone for a few training schools. The good thing is that he can use Vonage over there, so he'll have a local number for us to call him on. We also have webcams, so the boys can see him on the computer as well. I'm hoping this will help. DH just e-mailed me this morning and said he wants us to try to fly over there in November instead of December, b/c he doesn't want to wait that long! :) I guess I better get our passports soon, huh? lol
 
ahammons said:
363 to go! (Technically 333 if you don't count his mid-tour :D) DH left for Korea on Tuesday, and we are now completely moved! So far, the kids are taking it okay - but I don't think they've figured out that we're not here for a visit quite yet. Of course, they've been asking for Daddy, but they haven't been too upset by it...yet! We'll probably see him in about 5 months though. :) We are trying to plan a trip for me and the kids to fly over right before Christmas, so that we can be with him for a week or so. I can't wait!! Let's just hope that the kids behave on that long plane ride - they've never flown before!! :eek:

On a PC note... :D I finally found out who my hospitality director is, and I can't wait to meet her! I'm really hoping to focus more on my business in the next year; I think it will take my mind off of things and keep me busy.
Click to expand...

WOW! The dedication that it takes to keep a family intact with DH being gone so long... I really admire you!!!
Where in Indiana are you now?
 
  • Thread starter
  • #8
katie0128 said:
Where in Indiana are you now?
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We are in Mooresville now (just south of Indy). I think I'll start making some trips to the Dayton area in a few months - I'd like to have an idea of where everything is, before we move there next year. If nothing else, I'll just to go Wright Patt to check out the BX and Commissary! lol
 
Prayers for you!! I am also a military wife, but thankfully, my husband already had his remote completed before we married. But, of course, there are those long TDYs and deployments...

I pray your PC business really booms while he's gone and you stay busy, busy, busy!!
 
ahammons said:
We are in Mooresville now (just south of Indy). I think I'll start making some trips to the Dayton area in a few months - I'd like to have an idea of where everything is, before we move there next year. If nothing else, I'll just to go Wright Patt to check out the BX and Commissary! lol
Click to expand...

Oh now I remember... we talked before because you were asking how far WPAFB was from Cincinnati... aren't you thinking about going to Pharm school?
 
  • Thread starter
  • #11
katie0128 said:
Oh now I remember... we talked before because you were asking how far WPAFB was from Cincinnati... aren't you thinking about going to Pharm school?
Click to expand...
Yep, still thinking about it. :) I've taken the last month off from my online classes, and really need to get back to it. I just need to get motivated first! lol
 
Let me know when you are heading to visit Dayton... maybe we could meet somewhere for lunch/coffee/whatever...
 
  • Thread starter
  • #13
Sure, sounds great!
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is "Countdown to DH's Return: 363 to Go!"?

"Countdown to DH's Return: 363 to Go!" is a motivational initiative designed to help individuals track and celebrate the time remaining until a significant event, such as the return of a loved one. It often includes daily reflections, activities, or challenges to keep participants engaged and positive during the countdown period.

How can I participate in the countdown?

Participation in the countdown can be as simple as marking the days on a calendar or joining a community group that shares updates and encouragement. You can also create your own daily posts or reflections on social media to connect with others who are counting down as well.

Are there any specific activities associated with the countdown?

Yes, many participants engage in themed activities or challenges that correspond with the countdown. These can include sharing daily gratitude, completing small acts of kindness, or setting personal goals to achieve by the time the countdown ends.

Can I join the countdown if I am not directly involved with the person returning?

Absolutely! The countdown is open to anyone who wants to participate, whether you are a friend, family member, or simply someone looking for a positive community experience. Your involvement can provide support and encouragement to those who are directly affected.

What are some benefits of participating in the countdown?

Participating in the countdown can foster a sense of community, provide emotional support, and help individuals focus on the positive aspects of waiting. It can also encourage personal growth and reflection, making the time leading up to the event more meaningful and enjoyable.

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