We are a mobile community. On average, we move every 2-3 years and these aren’t our parents’ moves. We tend to move long distance, every time. Throw in the occasional overseas move and you’re in a whole new ballgame.
Those of us that have been around for a few moves have nailed the process. Clean out the closets, yard sales or thrift store drop-off’s, undies in a Ziploc, make sure the cat is contained when the packers come, and feed the movers.
Not everyone in PWOC has been through this process so many times, however, and we need to remember to share our experiences with our new-to-the-military sisters.
My first military move came 16 months into our marriage, 7 months in to our first pregnancy, and less than 1 month after my new husband’s return from six months in Afghanistan (early 2002). On top of that, I was leaving home for the first time (with my parent’s second grandchild yet unborn), and not just leaving, we were going literally halfway across the United States which, as far as my parents and I were concerned, was half way around the world. It was not the smoothest move.
I didn’t have PWOC back then and I wonder how different those early years would have been had I known about it. That’s why I’m always quick to tell new military gals all about PWOC. I even keep a stash of the Invitation Cards in my purse so that I have something tangible to hand them when we part.
Once our new-to-the-military sisters get involved, we become an invaluable network of resources, experience and friendship. With our Installation Locator, it takes no effort at all to reach out and make a connection with new friends at the next installation. It’s these connections that provide the most valuable information regarding living areas, schools, daycares, shopping and perhaps most important of all, these new connections combat that feeling of loneliness we all tend to feel upon arriving at a new location.
PCS season will be upon us in the blink of an eye. Remember to take advantage of the resources here at PWOC.org but also remember to be a resource to others less experienced.
We are Christ’s church. We are the Fellowship of Believers. We care for our own.
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“Tech Tuesday” is published every Tuesday. To reach Tracy with comments or questions, email her here.
