Sorry for my absence, been a busy week. My oldest son is getting ready to start his own journey in the military so I have been taking time and enjoying his presence.
Traditions are unique in the military culture. I was reminded of one today when a friend's husband returned from deployment. The weeks before are full of preparation, cleaning the house, making sure there is room in the closet, getting food that he likes (or some cases purchasing food that "needs" to be cooked instead of just warmed up or poured into a bowl), purchasing that perfect outfit, and of course fighting off the nerves. After all, most deployments are longer than six months (actually a year or more is realistic).
That first year of military life for me wasn't any different. I remember being so tired one time when my husband was training. I had no idea where he was or when he would return but I kept the house clean, room in the closet, and the cabinets stocked with his favorite items. I had no energy left on several days to cook. Yet, I would force myself. I thought that is what you did once you were out on your own and had a child to tend, especially since I was from a farm in Iowa (that is what I grew up - the "tradition"). I recall one day around 11am, I phoned my mom for advice. "Mom", I signed in a state of exhaustion, "what can I feed my son....I haven't slept in days due to my husband being gone and I have cooked every meal but I don't have the energy anymore." Her reply was very simple: "Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwich." How amazed I was at her reply. I was not accustom to this simple solution but I was thrilled with it! That day started a new family tradition, and has now developed into my oldest (yes, the child I was so concerned with in this blog) Favorite food!
During that first year, the beginning 'sisterhood'
After many years in the military, I now find comfort in the traditions of 'Our' culture. I enjoy hearing the excitement in a spouse's voice when their spouse is returning from home, even if it is from a days work.
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There were nights my kids ate cereal for dinner. :) It's OK - I have read the bible a couple of times and have yet to see God tell us we have to cook a big meal every evening.
ReplyDeleteThat is so true! I have learned since then but I was young (19). So therefore, many years of experience (18 years later) has shown that eating simple things (cereal, PBJ, or even our fav toast peanut butter and syrup) is OK!
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