It’s been four months since we first learned my husband would likely be deploying for a year, but the waiting game is over. My husband leaves a week from today for a 365 Day assignment “downrange” – aka, the desert. (For obvious reasons, I’m not able to say the exact base he’ll call home for the next year.)
Clearly it’s not ideal, but as a military family this is a known risk and I feel like it’s our turn. The last time he “deployed” we were able to join him while he spent four months working at a stateside base – seriously lucky! We have friends who are on their fourth deployment, one couple who learned they were expecting a child the day before the husband left for a one year deployment, and another friend who witnessed his daughter’s birth on Skype. So, I truly believe it when I say it could be worse.
After lots of back and forth and drama (renter bailing, finding a new renter at the last possible moment), the kids and I are able to move to Ohio to be near my family. I know there are parts of Florida I’ll miss (like the weather in the winter), but it doesn’t compare to the support and comfort of family for the next year. Moving was really a no-brainer for me and I’m so thankful that it is working out. The movers should finish packing up Tuesday and we will start the drive to Ohio on Wednesday. And, the only downer to the move working out is that we had to cancel our trip to Disney. I’m pretty sure it will still be there next year so we’ll go again soon.
It was my hope that with the help of the awesome contributors on The Shopping Mama, the blog would continue business as usual. But unfortunately, I’ve really fallen behind my own editorial schedule and know that I won’t be able to catch up until after my husband leaves and we find a new normal in Ohio. I really owe an apology to some sponsors who are being patient and understanding. Until we get back into the swing of things, we’ll try our best to keep sharing great finds, helpful reviews and fun giveaways.
Shannon Kelly
October 17, 2010We’ll miss you! I got my “My Daddy, My Hero” t-shirts in the mail the other day and they are adorable! Happy trails!
My kids will be wearing theirs at the airport next Sunday.
Cat @ 3 Kids and Us
October 17, 2010Kate, you sound like you’re handling this really well. I’m so glad you get to be near your family during this time, I’m sure it will make life just a tiny bit easier.
Julie Schmidlin
October 17, 2010Best of luck to you and your family! We are a military family also so I can relate to deployments and moves across country. Prayers are with you and your family. Thank your husband for his service from my family and also thank you for being a strong supportive wife for him!
Tiffany
October 17, 2010My hubby is deploying in three weeks for the second time, I feel your pain. Thanks for all you do as a military spouse in addition to your awesome site!
I’m sorry your husband is deploying again. Thanks for your comment – it made me smile.
Sarah @MainLineMoms
October 17, 2010Kate, i am sorry to hear your hubby is deploying, but happy for your opportunity to be close to you family for some extra support. My thoughts are with you, hang in there mama.
Crystal @ Simply Being Mommy
October 17, 2010So happy to hear you’ll be able to spend time with your family while your hubby is away.
Just wanted to let you know that I’m so thankful for military families and all they deal with for the safety of my family. Thank you!
Our Nifty Notebook
October 17, 2010I’m so glad you are able to move near your family during this time. I hope the move works out well and the year goes by fast!
Paige
October 17, 2010So sorry to hear he’s leaving! I’m a military girlfrind but haven’t gone through a deployment so I definetly look up to those who have! I’m part of a site called http://www.thehomefrontlife.com/ and it’s all military spouses, girlfriends, friends, family, etc. (99% women) and I’ve found it so helpful when I need to vent about something military related that my non-military friends wouldn’t get. Everyone is so full of support! I hope your move goes smoothly and the year goes by quickly for you!
Lorie Shewbridge
October 18, 2010Kate, Know that I’ll be adding your hubby and your family to my list of soldiers to my prayers. I’m so glad that you will be near your family during his deployment, but don’t forget your network of bloggy friends, they can be such a help. I have had so much support during my son’s deployment (he is scheduled to be home in 5 weeks).
Take care of those gorgeous children and know that our family thanks yours and prays for you daily! God bless you all.
brandy
October 18, 2010((hugs)) Kate I really don’t know how you mamas do it. I get emotional and depressed the 3 days a week Jeff has to do 12 hr shifts. ((hugs))