OT: Just need to talk/vent

Hi Des – I can relate I too am having a tought week but for different reasons.  I remember well when my husband deployed and how difficult things seemed them.  It seemed that finances, health issues and child issues would always rear their ugly heads when he left.  Of course we always made it through though it was not always easy – it is hard for the children as well when dad or mom is deployed, so everyone stresses.  Prayer is good, highly recommended and the number one thing to do, relaxation is also great – do you gave any special techniques to help with that?  I use a fabulous deep breathing excercise and then close my eyes and focus on a good thought, it always seems to help. Exercise and gardening are also great stress relievers for me as well.  Spend a few minutes reflecting on the good and the positive.  Give yourself an easier week, do what you need to and adjust to your new routine with hubby gone – be kind to yourself, and take breaks.  Unless you have been through these deployments and quite a few of us have on this site I imagine – then it is hard to understand the extra stress.  Worrying about our spouses and how we will manage everything can take its toll, and we need to recognise that and adapt.  Even if this a fourth or fifth deployment, it does not get easier – so pray, go easy on yourself and your children for a little while, and I will pray for you from here.  My husband has just retired from the Air Force, and he went on many deployments and twice to war – it is very, very hard and also hard when they return to readjust as well – so I understand and feel your fear and frustration.  God bless you and yours.  Linda

Des, that is a great idea, gardening I feel feeds the soul, being in nature and planting is to me is like a walk with God  – the children can be distracted, helping, playing etc and you can have some quiet thoughts.  Once the children are in bed, perhaps then you could find some peace time – have a nice bath, read, listen to lovely music – whatever it takes.  Sadly the deployments don’t get easier, but you will get through and you will manage.  If you need extra prayer, or an ear, then I am happy to be that.  Having our loved ones in harms way, is never an easy load to carry – but we somehow survive.  Enjoy your garden and some fresh air with your children.  Blessings Linda

Hang in there, sweetie.  I have always felt that the Lord gives me extra strength when my husband deploys, but it’s still hard.  Pray, pray, pray.  The first few times I’d chuck the schedule so we could have extra time together, but I found we all did better if we continued to have some structure.  I cherished my time after they were asleep and spent it relaxing, reading scriptures or watching a girly movie and eating ice cream!

If you have a friend or family member that could take the kids, even for an hour or so, that helps.  Play outside if you can so they get tired faster and sleep better.

Finances always work out, somehow.  I always try to remember “This too shall pass” and that the Lord will never give us more than we can handle.  He is always willing to pick up the load for us.

Heather