It finally came up
Changes have been greater than constants since I started the blog, which can be expected since life is a cyclical thing and I’ve been blogging for 3 1/2 years. We’re also a military family which definitely comes with an abundance of surprises. That’s why I wasn’t too surprised when this finally came up last night:
“So I talked to the boss today about what my plans are and where we’d like to go next.”
I know. NEXT. We just got here! But it’s kind of how it works… as soon as you get to a base, you’ll be there for about 3 years with a plan of where you would like to go or do when you’re sent somewhere else.
Since Tom and I have been together, I’ve found that constantly moving has been one of the best and worst parts about military life. It sucks packing up your stuff (we have no clutter, though- bonus), saying goodbye to close friends, and feeling like a newbie and temporary fixture everywhere you go, but on the other hand, it’s helped calm my hardcore Type A ways, I’ve met so many wonderful people and lifelong friends, and seen places that I’d never otherwise visit.
As soon as we started this crazy ride of being moved around at the government’s whim and forced to be flexible, Tom has always made me feel like he appreciates the fact that I roll with the punches. I declined finance job offers when I was in college since I wouldn’t be In Tucson or able to relocate where they’d like me to, and while it doesn’t matter in the least because I’m crazy in love with my husband (and have a job that I love a thousand times more than I would enjoy any of those), he’s always reminded me that he’s thankful.
When it came to places where we’d like to be stationed, I told him that if we could ever get back to Tucson to be around my family, that’s all I could ever want. It didn’t have to be soon, just sometime, but I’d like the chance for our kids to get to be surrounded by family, because I grew up with all of my aunts, uncles, nanas and tatas a car ride away. Of course, Tom’s always wanted to instruct, so while we were in Valdosta, he spent 4 years working his ass off to hopefully become an IP and earn an assignment to Tucson. They held us there longer, and longer again (1 more deployments), and when it was finally time to get our assignment, there was one Tucson spot… for the entire Fighter Group. And he got it.
Needless to say, I couldn’t be happier or feel more blessed that we’re here, especially during this time, and have told Tom that since he brought me to Tucson, I don’t care what we do next. We could go wherever, and it’s up to him to decide what he wants to do career-wise or where we go.
Last night, he told me some of the options of places where we could end up, but I told him that as long as I have him, the baby and Bella, I’ll be happy. Even if it’s not an assignment I’m super crazy about, I’ll find ways to make it fun for our daughter.
I’ve definitely thought about how she will feel about moving around all of the time, but I’m not too worried about it. Military kids are some of the friendliest, most adaptable, independent (and polite!), kids I’ve ever met and I think she’ll be ok. It’s the deployment factor that worries me, but if we have to go through that again, I’ll be strong for her and we’ll do fun things for the time to pass quickly. We’ll have to make lots of videos and send care packages, too.
Just like while we were in Valdosta, I had no idea that in 4 years I’d be sitting on our patio in Tucson. I have no idea where we’ll be 4 years from now.
It’s a crazy adventure, for sure, but it definitely keeps us on our toes <3
72 Comments
Leave a Comment
This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.
I’ve never known anyone in the military…that was until my husband got a teaching job in a military town. You are right…military kids really are some of the most respectable and friendly children I’ve ever met. I love seeing a coyple that is truly in love, and it is obvious that you and the pilot are. You THREE will do wonderfully where ever yoy are, and if it ever meant you would be in central Missouri, I’d love to meet you!
I think one of the many things I love about this blog that you are both positive/optimistic and down to earth. I have known military families, foreign service families and diplomat families and they all are such incredible, positive and fun people. You definitely are a bloom where you are planted type of person and your wonderful familia will be a skype session, a phone call and a plane ride away no matter where you go.
Plus, we will all be along for the ride. I think at this point you have so many followers that no matter where you end up someone following your blog will be able to recommend the best organic or at least healthy restaurants, sites to see, places kids love and of course the location of the nearest Whole Paycheck and TJ.
thank you, maddy <3
i think that having this blog has helped me so much, and you're right, having the recommendations along the way has been amazing.
thank you for such a sweet comment- hope you have a wonderful day
xoxox
I love this post. Being part of a military couple is so challenging, especially when one person has to give up what they want and are pursuing for the other. I love how open you are to moving and that moving actually made you a better person! I can only hope for the same.
You have an amazing attitude, Gina! Tom is lucky to have you. I don’t think I could have such a great outlook. (I’m too selfish & set in my ways.)
I am a former military bratt myself….
I WOULD NOT TRADE it for the world!
My dad was also in Tucson and its where i mett my husband…but we have since moved and live in MARYLAND and because I grew up moving every 3-4 years I feel the need to get up and GO but its just not what God has for us right now.
Our dream is to come back to Tucson and open up a non profit group home for teen moms.
Maybe one day….. 🙂
Your kids will be fine and they will learn so much about life in the process!
Girlllll. I am such a snob with my life and my comforts sometimes I forget what’s most important. This post really reminds me that it all doesn’t matter, just the ones you love matter. Thanks friend. Secretly hoping y’all will move in my neck of the woods. xo
i could only wish! we talked about that while we were there 🙂
xoxo
Just wanted to let you know that as a military wife and mother I can relate to you. I handled a deployment with a two-year-old and that made me feel more like a mother than anything else had. It’s strange to be the sole support for your family while the hubby is gone, but it is a gratifying feeling to know that you can do it. When my hubby deployed I wasn’t sure I’d make it, but I did. I know, if that happens to you, that you will handle it amazingly. Best of luck!
Hi Gina! I’ve recently started reading your blog because my fiance was in the military and loved it but got out before he met me. I know he’d love to go back in, but I’m nervous about the lifestyle changes and hardships, particularly moving around as you talk about. It’s basically up to me at this point whether we become a military family. Do you have any advice for someone in my position? Do you have any particular entries you’d recommend I read for your take on the lifestyle, or any blogs of other military wives that might offer a good perspective on what it’s like? Thanks so much for any help–your blog is amazing, and Livi is so cute!
hey girl!
the lifestyle is extremely hard, but i wouldn’t have it any other way. here’s the category for my military-related posts: http://fitnessista.com/category/military-vida/
hope this helps a little! best of luck to you with the decision 🙂
xoxo
my friend maria is also a military wife: http://alifetobraggabout.blogspot.com/