What Not To Say To Us Mom's

Within the last couple of days I have come across a few friends that have during our conversation asked me about how my Soldier is doing.  I always welcome the opportunity to talk about where and what he is doing.  What I don't welcome is the often times silly things they will say back.  

Both friends the last few days have been told about my son's upcoming big D.  I have mentioned when approximately he will arrive there and a rough guess-stimate of when he will be back.   Each one of them said back to me, "Well at least there isn't much happening over there right now."  

SERIOUSLY?  Did you just say that out loud to a mother who is worried beyond worried about sending her son off to a war zone?  You seriously think that is helpful?  

Let me give you all a hint....it isn't!  

I won't even begin to give the numbers and statistics of the ongoing loss of lives and injuries that are happening every month over there...those of us who it effects, already know...but I would like to lash out and tell those who haven't a clue that maybe they should get more up on what is really happening in their country that effects those who are serving it.  

I know that people are only trying to be helpful, kind and offer words that they think offer support, but that sentence doesn't do any of the above.  It belittles a mother's worry and concern.  It makes it seem like it is no big deal to have a Soldier heading off on a big D.  

You know what would be a really good thing instead....reach out and offer a hug.  Or look at us and tell us that you know that must be a very hard thing to face.  Recognize our pain and worry and value it for what it is worth.  So having said that, I am sure I am preaching to the choir because most all of you who read this blog are wearing the same shoes that I am wearing...that of a parent of a Soldier...but I had to vent and get it out of my system.  

I hope that you have people who surround you with love, support and try to understand the good and bad days you have as being an Army Mom.  

Lots of love, 
Faith

A Day to Ramble

Good ol Mondays.  They stink most always.  Today is no exception.  Over the weekend a friend of ours killed himself.  No warnings.  No signs.  No explanation left.  I have found that it has left me thinking that far too many people don't value this life we all have.  It has also made me have some cross thoughts about how our Soldiers face life and death everyday doing what they do and unfortunately some don't make it...and how I find it so screwy that someone would just toss their life away while someone else is fighting to keep not only theirs but those they serve to protect.  

Sorta weird that one could argue that it is someone's right to take his own life...and "rights"  are something that our Soldiers fight to ensure.   I want to yell and scream and have everyone hear me say "We are such fortunate people!"  Far too often people don't appreciate all that we are given here on a small local level as well as here in this Country as a whole.   Don't waste it.  Don't devalue it.  

As each day ticks by and I see the calendar creeping closer to the big D day I find myself getting more preoccupied with worry and fear for his safety and for his life.  So to have a friend make the choice to just toss life away angers me.  I am grieving his loss, but I can't lie...I am angry!   Young men and women are fighting everyday in the War to give others the right to live in a more democratic and free way of life...and here is someone I know tossing those rights that he already has aside.   Frustrates and confuses me.  It saddens me.  

So I write today in frustration and in grief.  

It makes me sad to think there are people who suffer with no hope.  Many of our own Soldiers lose hope and take their own lives everyday in our country.    The Army has created many new programs to raise awareness and to aid those in pain to reach out and seek help.  Even in that moment of complete despair those hurting need to always remember that even if their life means nothing to them at that time, that their life means everything to someone else.   Hope.  There has to always be hope.  

Sending you, your family, and your Soldiers love and support today.
Faith

Facebook Page

Just wanted to share the link to my Facebook fan page.  I hope you find it another avenue to seek and share support and information with each other. 

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Army-Mom-Strong-by-Faith/139208379557007?ref=hl

Books During Deployment

While mentally preparing myself for what is to come I have been searching for books.  I wanted to share a few with you that have gone on my "to read" list.  When I see others post about deployment their biggest tip is always to stay busy.  Reading will be one of the ways that I stay busy.

 http://www.amazon.com/dp/159851055X/ref=rdr_ext_tmb

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1932311203/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=publishingalt-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=1932311203

Any favorites or ones that you have found helpful, please let me know!
Faith
 

Do I Have To Let Go

Okay, first off, I have admitted in at least 2 other posts that I may be a bit, as I call it, engaged, with my boys lives.  Obsessive just sounds like something medically wrong...and being a loving caring mother can't be wrong.  Second, these are days of great turmoil in the Middle East and are causing us Army Mom's to freak just a bit.  

It isn't that I am trying to justify my worries.  Well, okay, maybe I am.  But do I have to?  

We had anticipated call from Jake on Thursday night to his father.  I had the pleasure of a really nice conversation with him the night before but his Dad wasn't home.  Thursday came and went.  Friday came and went.  Saturday afternoon we got a message via Facebook saying his phone was broke.  Super Mom to the rescue.  I dropped everything I was doing and got on the phone with my cell phone carrier to make the problem right.  I knew he had kept an old phone and all we needed was for them to turn that phone back on....easy enough...problem solved.  Well course not.  Because he is so far away from any of their towers they needed to have him call and walk him thru manually programming the other old phone to work.  I sent him back all the info that he would need when he called in.  I know my Jake.  He doesn't go anywhere without his phone and he doesn't go to long or to far from his lap top, so I assumed he would get the info, call and take care of it fairly soon after I sent it to him.  Well course not.  

He didn't respond to my messages.  I was pretty sure he hadn't logged online either.  It wasn't until Monday mid-morning that I get a text from him saying that he hated his old phone!  Ya well at that moment I coulda rung his neck!  I didn't care that he hated his old phone, I wanted to ground him for not getting back with me for two days!  Pretty sure I can't do that anymore though...not even sure I successfully did it before he joined the Army either :(  

I spent the last two nights worrying and creating the most outrageous reasons for why he hadn't called in yet.   Why do we do that?  Why do I do that?  Why do I automatically assume that he is wounded on the side of the road screaming out to his mother for help every time I don't hear from him?  Why don't I assume he is out having fun with his buddies?  (which is exactly what he was doing by the way)

This morning I sat and really gave thought to why I over inflated my worries this weekend.  I believe it wasn't the fact that I hadn't heard from him in 2 days.  I know it was my mind working on over time "pre-worrying" about his upcoming deployment.  I was told on Wednesday (the night I talked to him)  by his FRG that Wi-Fi and contact may be minimal when he arrives at his destination.  That has weighed on my mind ever since.  Obviously huh!!??  

I wish I could promise to not over react again.  I wish I could promise not to worry or stress.  I can't, because I would be lying.  What I can promise to do though is to always remember that anything that I have worried and stressed about has NEVER ever been any where near as bad as I had imagined in my mind.  I will work on the other 2 though...but I can't promise big changes anytime to come right away.  <3

Hoping you all had a good weekend and are in the middle of an even better Monday!
Faith
 

Hooah!

Hooah (who-a) adj, [slang] used by soldiers, primarily infantry, airborne, rangers] referring to or meaning anything and everything except "NO". Once heard mainly from infantry soldiers, hooah has spread throughout the Army over the years. Soldiers will continue to acknowledge a mission to be accomplished, a job well done, or any occasion imaginable with a loud, confident Hooah.

 While we were in Huntsville Alabama delivering Jake to Redstone we went to a Wal-Mart to pick him up a few things that he wanted.  It was my first time being out in the general public with my son dressed in his Uniform.  I find that when I am with him dressed in uniform it makes me stand a little taller.  We were waiting in line and this mother and her little girl approached us.  Jake sorta moved out of the way and thought that they were just getting closer to him cause of the line being full.  What we weren't expecting was what their reason was for approaching him.  The mother said, "Can she shake your hand?  She loves Soldiers."  My heart just beamed with pride.  This little girl was probably no more than 6 or 7.  She reached her little hand out to Jake and shook his hand with the biggest smile on her face.  A tiny whisper of "Thank you" came out of her as their hands parted.  

It was a great moment that I was so happy to witness.  He had just graduated the day before from BCT and to have him be shown such love and kindness at that time was reaffirming to him that he was where he needed to be, doing what he needed to be doing.  

As we were walking back to our van and chatting about that encounter with the little girl another awesome moment took place.    A man was walking towards us and as we all reached each other the man let out a "Hooah!"  Jake gave a Hooah back as their eyes met.  That was all that was spoken as we all kept walking in opposite directions.  That one word exchanged by what we assumed to be a Veteran Soldier to our new Soldier was all that needed to be said.  It was clear what the word meant to them both.

I will never forget that day.  As I think back to that memory on this day my heart is filled yet again with pride.  I am proud of not just my Soldier, but proud of the people who recognize the sacrifices and the job that he has committed his life to.  It makes me proud to know there are such Americans.  Hooah!

It is Friday...have your Red on?  
Sending love and support to you, your family, and your Soldier.  
Faith

Our World

With all the happenings in Lybia and Egypt yesterday and today I have found myself doing lots of thinking and wondering.  The scenes unfolding on the news broadcasts are very disturbing and unsettling.  Watching images of our American Flag being torn to shreds, burned, and replaced with a flag that represents an organization that hates our Country is just so hard to see. 

I find myself with 2 biggest things twisting and turning in my mind.  First, it makes me wonder why our cultures and countries are at odds?  I have to admit that I haven't ever until today really taken the time to read up on the Muslim and Islamic faith, beliefs and culture.  Second, seeing the images of the last 2 days worries me as an Army Mom.  Every time I hear of an uprising or a protest or violence on the news my mind instantly wonders  if our own Military men and women will be called upon to intervene. 

A high school friend of mine, Christine, asked today the famous question, "Why can't we all just get along?"

I really do not know exactly why we all can't, but I do believe we all won't get along.  It seems that hatred, wars, and battles has been around since the dawn of time.  Do I wish and pray for peace?  Oh hek yes I do.  Do I really belief I will see it in my lifetime?  No, sadly I do not. 

I have to believe that our Country has the best of intentions.  I have to believe that where we are in foreign countries that we are doing good.  I have to believe that we are helping more people than hurting.  I have to believe these things in order to be at a somewhat level of peace in sending my own son off to war.   I  hope that in time we will start to see positive changes from the things that are happening today in our World.

Today I send you, your family, and your Soldier not only love and support, but also a wish for peace.  
Faith
 

 

Being Tired Makes Everything Funnier

This morning I recalled a memory from our family trip to attend Jake's BCT graduation.  We left Maine on a Monday morning REALLY REALLY early...I think it was 3 or 4am... and drove basically non-stop until we were just outside of the Virginia Tech area.  Honestly, I can't remember the exact name of the town, I just know that we stopped near where the school is located.  

There were 8 of us traveling in 2 cars all day only stopping quickly for bathroom breaks.   We arrived at this LaQuinta and checked in to our 3 rooms.  We were all starving and tired.  The thought of getting back in our vehicles and going to find food somewhere just seemed completely painful.  

The hotel advertised a "full menu on-site restaurant"....hmmmm yaaaaaaa, nope!

This very wonderful front desk clerk when asked bout the "restaurant" came from out behind his counter and unlocked a nearby door.  A door that I would have believed to be going in to a closet of some sort.  He preceded to usher all 8 of us.  We entered this room that appeared to be the size of one of their guest rooms converted to a "restaurant".  The floor was a tile covering, the walls painted a dark red, and it was fairly full of these cute little black bistro style tables and chairs.  

Our family sorta all at once busted out laughing!  We were being guaranteed great meals in this little cramped private dining room with nothing more than a closet filled with a mini fridge and microwave.   Due to all of us being exhausted we found every little thing about the room, the menu, and the "one-armed paper hanger" worker to be extremely hilarious.  

We joked that how special we felt to be in our private restaurant.  We joked til the food came out.  The food was awesome!  We were all very pleasantly surprised at what that front-desk counter person could create from frozen entree's and a microwave :)  

It is a silly memory, but a memory we all laugh about to this day.  That funny story we all have to share and look back on as part of our adventure to Fort Jackson.  I think I have a pic of the "restaurant"....

From left to right are:  My mother, (Nana).  Back to is my oldest son, Mike.  My father in law, Bill, (Pa) and my mother in law, Karen (Grammie).  

I hope today you are filled with fun happy memories of time spent with your own family.
Sending you, your family, and your Soldier lots of love and support,
Faith 


 

Always Remember and Never Forget

On this Patriot Day, September 11th, I am taking the time to reflect, remember and honor just like I am sure all of you are today.  11 years later the day hits me with such raw emotion.  Sadness for the lives lost on that dreadful day in NYC, Pennsylvania and at The Pentagon.  We all remember the horrible images played out on our television screens.  The moments when those Towers each fell and I sat watching I just kept asking "Is this real?"  My mind just couldn't wrap around what I was seeing.  In our Country.  On American soil.  Is this really happening?  

Though the day brings back many sad memories, I also remember that day and the days immediately following as ones that showed the uprise of great unity and pride in our Country.  Candlelight ceremonies, lines of those donating blood, countless number of volunteers doing what they could to help those in need.  We all came together directly following this day.  If only we as a nation, could hold on to those feelings each and every day.  

My boys were 11 and 9 when the 911 attacks took place.  I didn't shelter them from the images on the television.  We all sat and watched the news channels for days on end it seemed.  I didn't know for sure what was all taking place, but I knew we were watching history in the making.  I knew that from that day forward our country was not going to be the same again.  They are part of what is called "The 911 Generation."  Here it is 11 years later...that generation has seen our country in more years of War than not.  It is their generation that now volunteers at unprecedented numbers to serve and protect our country in our Military forces.  

As I sit here and type it is now 9:37am....the exact time The Pentagon was struck....I pause now for a moment of silence....

I am watching the ceremony at The Pentagon televised live.  As they just said on the broadcast, not a day goes by that those serving in the Military and/or working at The Pentagon forget the events of 911.  For those serving our country it is that day and those events that are the driving force behind their reasons for joining and defending.  Their sacrifices come so that those of here at home can find strength and courage in knowing that because of those men and women doing their jobs, we all are safer here at home.  They are doing all they can to ensure that we will not be attacked  in such a way ever again on American soil.  

It gives me great pride to have a son serving and doing his part in keeping not just his family, but every one in this country a bit safer.  When he made the decision to join the Army he didn't do so with the hope of making a better life just for himself....he did it with the hope of making it a better life for all of us.  

So on this day, Patriot Day, hug a little tighter, love a little more, smile more often, and make it a day that you show our true American Spirit.  

Always sending lots of love and support,
Faith

Suicide Awareness Day 2012

September 10th is Suicide Awareness/Prevention Day around the World.  The Army has designated the entire month of September to Suicide Prevention.  As the poster says, "One suicide is one too many."  We lose far too many of our Soldiers to suicide. 

Below are links that relate to the issue, prevention, and awareness.

http://www.armyg1.army.mil/hr/suicide/default.asp

http://ptsd.about.com/od/ptsdandthemilitary/qt/hotline.htm

http://www.survivorsofsuicide.com/

A Rant Of What Is On My Mind

I started my day out by watching last night's season finale of Army Wives.  I really do like the show.  I have bonded with the characters over the years.  The story lines in each episode touch me.  This episode touched me greatly.  

I have watched other episodes of the Soldiers being sent off at Fort Marshall for their deployment.  I cried then too.  This one though brought more than just tears.  My heart ached.  You know it didn't just ache for me...it ached for all you Mothers out there too.  I have been so fortunate to come across so many incredible Mom's online that my heart ached for you all too.  I sat thinking of the millions of people watching the show with dry eyes.  People that watch it just cause it is "entertainment."  So many people watch it and do not relate to the story lines personally.  So many are just not aware of the sacrifices that take place every day within a Military family.  

Often times friends will ask my "Why do you watch and put yourself through that?"  If I share a sad You Tube video about a Soldier people will post, "It brings me too much pain to watch."   I read every post from the Department of Defense when our Country has suffered a casualty.  I watch nearly every video that is posted of a fallen Soldier returning home.  

Why do I do this?  

How can I not?  That lost life is someone's son, daughter, mother, father, brother, sister, and/or friend.  When it comes right down to it...if it were my son, daughter, mother, father, brother, sister, and/or friend...I would want EVERYONE to take the time to watch and remember and respect the life lost.  

When Denise on Army Wives lost her son, Jeremy, Oh my God I hated the show makers!  I promised to never ever watch that damn show ever again!  Well you can see that didn't last.  I went 2 weeks and ended up watching what I had missed online to catch up.  

I am a very emotional sappy worry wart person.  I admit that.  Being that way also makes me feel not only my pain, but the pain of others.  If that is wrong, than as the saying goes, "I don't want to be right."  Having compassion and being able to share each others pain is something that we all need to do a bit more of I think.  

I had a conversation with our son way back where I told him that I worry about him in the Army, but that he needs to understand I would worry about him if he was still out back playing trucks in the sand pile.  It is who I am.  It isn't something that is going to change.    Us Army Mom's take on a really big tough job when those sons and daughters of ours raises their right hand and swears in.  

I can't apologize for my emotional sappy start to my day.  To apologize would mean I am sorry for it...and I am not.  Crying at something that touches our soul is what keeps us real and keeps us who we are.  I am okay with who I am.  I just think I should have bought stock in Kleenex years ago!  :)  

What triggers your emotional days?  What helps you deal with them?  Surely I can't be the only silly sappy Army Mom!!

Sending you, your family and your Soldier lots of love and support.
Love, Faith

Where We Have Been

When Jake joined the Army one of the first conversations that my husband and I had was about our desire to see every place during Jake's Army career that he is assigned to.  So far to date we have accomplished that.  Hmmmm can I buy a flight to Afghanistan?  If it was possible, I am betting there would be many planes that would land there plum full of Military Mom's!   It may sound silly, but I am always more at ease when I have a visual in my head of "where he sleeps" at each place he has been at.  Being able to picture him going in to the building...seeing his window...it just makes this Army Mom feel better.  

I thought today I would share some of my favorite pics from the places that we have visited since the beginning of his Army life.  

First visit was to Fort Jackson, South Carolina for his BCT graduation.

 Fort Jackson Headquarters

 His barracks while at BCT












His first AIT location was Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville, Alabama.  We were fortunate enough to get to take him via POV there after BCT.

 The building he was assigned to at Redstone

 Outside of the door at Redstone.












From there he moved to Eglin Air Force Base at Fort Walton Beach, Florida.

 His barracks at Eglin....see his window? 

 The training center at Eglin where spent many hours.

 Yup, Destin wasn't tough to take at all!








His next AIT location was Fort Huachuca, near Tucson, Arizona.
We weren't able to go there until he graduated and was finished, but it was a really nice area and great trip with him!

 This was his barracks in Prosser Village

 The training facilty at Fort Huachuca for UAS

 We headed out at midnight the day of his graduation.  Cross country from Arizona to Florida.  We stopped for a quick visit at my mother in law's and then we left his car there and flew home.  It was a fun time having him stuck in a car with us for that length of time!  

His first duty station assignment is at Fort Stewart, near Savannah, Georgia.  His grandmother and I were able to go visit shortly after he got settled in.  Savannah is a beautiful area also for visiting.  His Dad is looking forward to seeing Fort Stewart next month when he gets to visit.  

Headquarters at Fort Stewart

His barracks at Fort Stewart.

Warriors Walk at Fort Stewart in January.

















His next assignment I will not be seeing for myself.  I will rely on him for a few pics of where he will be sleeping, eating, or working.  

 Traveling to these places has been all great adventures for our family.  It is something I look forward to for many more years to come. 

Have a great weekend...Happy Saturday to you, your family, and your Soldier!
Faith

Wear Red Fridays - Showing Support For Our Troops

 A very simple way to show support of our Troops.  Wear red on Fridays.  Hey, today is Friday!  Do you have your red on?

Simple ways to show support and respect for our troops was the backbone of a conversation I had this morning.  I went in to talk to our local Town Manager, who also happens to be an old friend and who happens to be an Air Force Mom :)  We talked about the placement of yellow ribbons to town owned poles in our Downtown area.  Our town has several young men and women serving our Country.  These simple yellow ribbons would help raise awareness to their sacrifices as well as offer a small show of support to our local troops.  The conversation preceded to talk about the upkeep of American Flags through out the town.  We both agreed how great it is so see flags waving in our community, but how sad it makes us to have some of those flags torn and really in need of being properly disposed of.  As Town Manager she makes it one of her concerns that all of the flags displayed on town owned poles are in good condition.   It is important for the town to be the roll model for its citizens when it comes to showing proper support and respect for our troops.  

Every Monday morning in a part of our area known as "Chisholm square" there are a small group of people who gather and hold American Flags.  Some are Veteran's and some are community members who do their part in supporting our troops.  A simple act that means so much.  

Over the summer one of our own Soldiers from our town was injured while serving Afghanistan.  She graduated from our local high school in 2007 and joined the Army shortly after.  It gives me great pride to tell of the events that our community members did to raise funds and raise awareness for this Soldier and her family.  "Toll booths" were held for a few days on our major road coming in and out of town.  Donations were accepted from anyone riding by who wished to help.  Maine's own First Lady appeared in our July 4th parade as a show of support and respect for our injured local Soldier.  Just last month a spaghetti supper was held to raise more funds to help in any way that is needed in her recovery.  Simple acts that can do so much.  

I do not live near a Military base.  I have at times thought that our area was very out of touch with the sacrifices of those who serve our Country.  Nothing makes a small town come together and rally around one of its own like a tragedy does though.  When there is a need, there are those who are always willing to step up and help.  

Small Town living isn't too bad at times :)  Does your town or area do special things to support your local troops?  What things brings your town together to honor and respect those serving our Country?  

Sending you, your family, and your Soldier lots of love and support!
Faith

Army Mom Dreams

Woke up feeling out of sorts and my thoughts remain that way several hours later.  Upon waking up this morning I recalled my night of sleep and dreaming.  I kept waking up every few hours and each time I was remembering having the same lingering dream sequence all night long.  

Through out the night I had a long dream of being on a cruise ship type setting, but yet I could see land not very far away.  The boat was full of people but the only person I remember knowing on the boat was my Soldier son Jake.  

I have lived in Maine all my live to this point, but I have always had a deep rooted fear of tornado's.  Where it comes from?  I have no idea, but I remember being deathly afraid of tornado's since being a very little girl.  Maybe I can blame the Wizard of Oz!?  I have never been anywhere near one, but the thought of one scares me right in to a tizzy.  The evening that Jake graduated from High School our area received strong fierce thunderstorms and we were put in a tornado watch.  Well, let me tell ya I freaked!  I left for the graduation alone and very early so that I could be safely inside the gym.  My husband and oldest son had a good time teasing me....but I can't help it....our fears, regardless of what they are, are very real and scary.  

So anyway, back to my dream.  While Jake and I were sitting enjoying the sunshine and tropical feel of the cruise ship we kept being interrupted with warnings of tornado's.  Each time he and I would see one of the spout type funnels forming we would get up and run deep inside the boat to safety.  One of the weird things, we were the only ones who did!  Everyone else stayed there and just sat through the tornado on the deck of the boat.  Jake and I did this same pattern back and forth several times that I remember during the night.  I couldn't shake the dream and I couldn't shake the feeling of fear.  

I would like to laugh it off and make fun of it, but I can't.  The dream expressed a couple of my biggest fears.  I know with having each day tick away to his deployment my inner thoughts are building up my fear.  A tornado and having my son in danger rolled into one dream left me feeling very antsy.  The tornado's in my dream didn't represent a real tornado.  They represented my real fears that I have for all of our Soldiers as they do the jobs they are trained to do.  

Fear can be a very crippling thing in our lives.  Facing and over coming what we fear builds great character and courage.  I certainly do not plan on living every day with great fear for Jake's safety or that of an impending tornado, but it is always okay to be aware of what we fear and respect the feelings that it brings up in us.   Today I am acknowledging mine and also remembering that in the end...we were safe...we both found protection from the tornado's...we came out of it just fine.

Sending you, your family, and your Soldier lots of love and support!
Faith

Seeing Red White and Blue

If I had to pick the number one thing that I dislike the most about having a son in the Army, it would be that I don't get to physically see his face anywhere near as much as I would like.  I have a child that doesn't seem to believe in EVER taking a pic to send me!  Dang kid!  (hint hint cause I know he reads this)  So something I do without consciously doing it is to have more and more things in our home that is patriotic and/or Army themed.  In my mind when I pass by something that makes me think of Jake, it is like having him here.  Know I have to admit that it isn't always a good thing though either.  For example he left from his last visit mid-July and I just opened the door to his bedroom a week ago because I had to put something in there.  In a goofy mother way though that is different.  Seeing his empty bed isn't something I want to look at when he first leaves from every visit home.  Looking at a Vermont Teddy Bear dressed in an Army uniform though is something that I do want to look at right after he leaves.  

Cathy, one of my friends recently asked me if I always displayed an American Flag or if it was something that I started doing after Jake joined the Army.  We have always displayed an American Flag at every house we have lived at since the early 90's.  Little Americana theme trinkets and decorating items have always been in my home.  What has changed though now is the amount of them as well as the meaning they portray to me now.  Last summer I redecorated our spare bedroom...currently now the bed is out and it has become my office space.  

 The room just makes me smile :)   The long rectangle framed set of pictures over the bed is from my Grandfathers Army unit back in 1944.  The wooden flag behind the lamp was a Christmas gift from my oldest son, Mike, back around 1997ish.  The triangle door knocker was made by Mike in middle school.  The book sticking out of the wooden box is one that Jake bought and read while he was at BCT.   The entire room is just full of things that make me feel good when in there working.

One day soon I have to get in his bedroom and clean it and prepare for his next upcoming visit.  I haven't done much changing in there.  I put a new wall border up and added a few sentimental framed art works to the wall, but it is primarily the same as when he was here....except cleaner and smells better!  I was told once from my younger cousin Jason, who served time in the Army, that it is really comforting to Soldiers to know that they always have "home" to come home to.  I will never forget that conversation and the feelings he shared with me.  He remembers how his bedroom was turned into a new use nearly the day after he left for boot camp.  His emotions while telling me struck me.  Through his pain I learned a great lesson.  Jake will ALWAYS have a bedroom and a home to come home to. 

So I have found the compromise of keeping his room exactly that, his room, and making a few other changes here at home that gives me strength and comfort as an Army Mom.

Sending you, your family, and your Soldier lots of love and support!
Faith

Facebook Page For Blog Following

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Army-Mom-Strong-by-Faith/139208379557007

At the advice of my Soldier son I created a Facebook page for my blog.  I hope this is just another way for us all to stay connected, follow the blog, and share together our experiences.  

Please "like" the page and share it with your own family and friends.  Thank you so much for the support.  I have been so fortunate to make contact with so many new friends since starting this blog.  

It is a chilly rainy day here in the Northeast...perfect day for thinking and writing.  :)
Faith

FRG Tips for Deployment

It makes me happy to have contact with the FRG from Jake's unit.  Being the mother and not a spouse had me concerned on what and how much we would be included in upcoming pre-deployment preparations and plans. If you are a parent of a single soldier and have not yet contacted the FRG, do it!  I have received messages, emails and documents that offer many tips and suggestions on preparing for upcoming deployments.  I have been thanked for my support for my Soldier.  Made me wonder how many Soldiers do not have the support from back home regarding their Army career.  

The following list is from a document I received from the FRG regarding POA's and other legal/financial things to do to prepare.  

POWER OF ATTORNEY (POAs)
General - authorizes the same legal effect for another to act as you
DFAS/AER - to start/stop allotments, LES, apply/receive AER loans
Military ID Card - sign/verify DD1172, make changes to DEERS
Motor Vehicles/Watercraft - sell/purchase/transfer titles
Enter a Lease as a Tenant - Enter or terminate property lease
Parental Acts - designates a guardian for children and authorizes medical treatment in event the parent is incapacitated; no expiration
Balfour Beatty - authorizes changes to BB housing
Financial - sign, endorse, execute, acknowledge, deliver and posses all financial transactions
Bank - USAA requires that you have one of their POAs specifically, other banks may also request this
Medical - make health care decisions when you are unable to make them for yourself upon incapacity with no expiration date
Declaration of Representative for Taxes - to file taxes
Parental - Designates a guardian for children
Shipping/Receiving property
Purchase/Sell/Manage Real Estate
Living Will - voices your medical decision if you are unable to speak for yourself as a result of medical incapacitation
Litigation
Will Worksheet - fill out and return to Legal Assistance office to be notarized
Funeral Arrangements - there is a form you can fill out and help to make less decisions in your worst nightmare

I hadn't given the Declaration of Representative for Taxes any thought.  Our son will be gone during the time of year that taxes are to be filed...I am thankful for the heads up on being prepared now and not stressing come April 15th!

Care packages are something that I have started to give some thought to.  I have gone to the post office and picked up boxes already a couple of times.  I want to have plenty on hand.  The following list and tips came from the FRG.

Care package tips:

• Check on size and weight restrictions for packages
• enclose a card listing the contents of the pkg (also good to make this list while you are packing everything up b/c it has to be re-listed on the USPS form)
• Place items that may spill in a ziploc bag
• Use reusable packing supplies (local newspaper, tissues, ziploc bags of popped popcorn, small stuffed toys that can be given away to local kids, etc.)
• Write out the complete address (full name, unit name including battalion, apo/fpo address, 9 digit zip code)
• Number your packages and letters (some may take longer than others to arrive)
• Don't send perishables to warm climates (like chocolate).

Care package ideas: powdered drink mix, spices/seasonings, individual packs of condiments, dried goods (like ramen), protein or breakfast bars, canned goods, jerky/summer sausage, ziploc bags, canned snacks (chips, nuts, etc.), candy, gum, bathroom items, baby wipes, eye drops, lip balm, medicine (flu, cold, allergy, pain relievers), foot care (moleskin, medicated foot powder, athlete's foot ointment), disposable hand warmers, mist fans, goggle style sunglasses, socks/underwear, fingerless gloves, stocking caps, long johns, books/magazines, crosswords puzzles, jigsaw puzzles, movies, music, games, mp3 player, portable dvd/cd players, batteries (especially AA & D)..however do not leave batteries inside of electronics during shipment, disposable cameras, writing materials, phone cards, reminders of home (pictures, school projects, homemade recordings, homemade cookies, etc.), individual packs of laundry soap

I hope some of these tips and suggestions are helpful to you.  Preparing for deployment is something totally new for me.  I am on this journey learning as I go.  If you have ideas, tips, or suggestions, PLEASE PLEASE leave them as comments below or send them to my email at ARMYMOMSTRONGBYFAITH@YAHOO.COM and I will share them with everyone here.  

Sending lots of love and support to you, your family and your Soldier!
Faith
 
 

Crossing On The Path of Deployment

This poem was shared yesterday on a site for Army Moms.  I read it and was touched by it.  I have found since reading it that it has made me wonder about the Mother of the Soldier that my own son will go over and take his spot.  I never gave it any thought before.  I wrote the other day about always counting up or counting down the days....somewhere another Mother is counting down til her son returns.  She is doing pre-planning for his WELCOME HOME party as I am starting to work out his GOING AWAY gathering.  She has most likely been given a "stop mail" date and I am anticipating sending out care packages soon.  

We are on the same road, only I am on one side of the yellow line and she is on the other.  We will pass soon.  The passing will come with great love and pride by both of us for the job that our Soldiers have undertaken.  

It gives me comfort to know that there are other Mom's who are on the same road.  When I need some road side assistance it is right there with hugs, stories, support, yellow ribbons, flags, hope, faith, and love for each other.  

Lots of love, 
Faith

Happy Labor Day

Remembering those who are not receiving 8 hours of Holiday pay today.  Remembering those who are not enjoying one last bar b que of the summer season.  Remember those who are in harms way today and everyday. 

Sending lots of love and support to you, your family and your Soldier!
Faith

Army Mom/Pride Merchandise

Happy Sunday afternoon fellow Army Mom's and readers.  Sundays do not seem to be a day that I sit down and spend much time writing.  Not this time of  year anyway.  I thought today I would keep it simple by sharing a few sites that showcase Army Pride merchandise.  I purchased a shirt back along that says on it "Ask Me About My Soldier".  It is one of my favorites!

http://www.zazzle.com/army+mom+tshirts 

I like this one from zazzle!

http://shop.cafepress.com/army-mom

cafepress.com I have personally purchased from them before and was very satisfied with my order :)

Wear Red on Fridays!

http://www.amazon.com/Proud-Army-Mom-T-Shirt-Pink/dp/B003BW87HW

Lots of things on Amazon.com also.

Enjoy browsing and wear it with pride....Army Pride!
Faith
 

You Know You're An Army Mom When...

~♥~ YOU KNOW YOU’RE AN ARMY MOM WHEN.......

1. Your last goodnight sleep was six months before he enlisted.

2. You have finally resigned to the fact that Army Mail is delivered seasonally rather than daily.

3. Your Soldier gives you tips on ironing.

4. Your Soldier's version of pneumonia is "It's just a cold, I'm fine".

5. You finally realize the Army cure all is Ibuprofen.

6. The international operator knows you on a first name basis

7. Your Soldier starts finding MRE's tasty and you’re feelings are hurt.

8. Your interior design color palate is red, white and blue, and you never even noticed.

9. You have at least 100 emails per day from other Army Moms just like you!

10. The mere word Deployment has you on your knees in prayer.

11. You can't quite figure out what non-Army mothers worry about.

12. You finally realize that Drill Instructors are not the anti-Christ and more like heroes.

13. You've mailed at least a few packages that have been on around- the-world tours.

14. You forgot that there were TV stations other than FOX NEWS & The Pentagon Channel!

15. You find yourself bragging to your friends about your Soldier's accuracy with weapons.

16. You will get into a high speed chase just to catch up with someone’s Army bumper sticker ~ SO TRUE & beep and wave!!!!

17. You've memorized military time and in-country time.

18. You finally, finally realize that today really means tomorrow, tomorrow could be today, and next week, could be yesterday.

19. You've learned to hold your breath for a really, really long time.

20. You know the alphabet as: Alpha, Bravo, Charlie, Delta, Echo, Foxtrot, Golf, Hotel, India, Juliet, Kilo, Lima, Mike, November, Oscar, Papa, Quebec, Romeo, Sierra, Tango, Uniform, Victor, Whiskey, Xray, Yankee, Zulu.

Borrowed from a Facebook page called March of Honor  :)  Many of them fit me to a T!

Hope your weekend is filled with much happiness.

Faith