The Army is big on After Action Reviews (AAR) and use the leadership technique ad nauseum. It's only appropriate that I conduct an AAR regarding our recent trial run for deployment!
1. Get in bed on time.
2. Have a list of projects to accomplish while he is gone, but don't overspend while accomplishing said list.
3. Don't rely on technology (TV, Wii, and internet) quite so much, setting limits for all of us.
4. Use a schedule for me and for the boys, including exercise time, weekly library trips, and a fun event once a week. This was harder to do since it's summer. It will be easier once the school year starts.
5. Have a plan for bad weather, and go outside more on good weather days.
6. Figure out a better meal plan with lots of quick and easy meals, including a really easy night (like pizza) once a week.
7. Play with the dog and take her on walks.
8. Plan big events at regular intervals.
9. Hire a babysitter once a week for "Mommy stays sane" time.
10. Get up earlier than the boys, giving me time to read my Bible regularly.
What are some other tips for thriving during a military separation? Any really easy recipes? Any ideas for big events?
4 comments:
Don't forget that you can get 16 hours of free childcare a month at the CDC! I never used it, but looking back there are times I wish I did!
Have at least one person you can always rely on in an emergency.
Outside time is the best! I swear that spending time outside every day got me through the deployment! It just let me relax and get out of the house!
Hope to see you guys when we head that way!
You may qualify for 16 hours free child care per month. Check on that...kept me sane!!
~Jennifer H
Christie, Check out SavingDinner.com . It is a life saver. She has a frugal menu for those on a budget and all of her meals are easy to prepare. She even includes a weekly shopping list for the meals. I cannot recommend it highly enough. There are free sample menus for you to try and see if you would like it. May you do well on your new plan :-)
I have some crock pot recipes if you want them! Your list is quite impressive! The only thing I would add is time for you and your friends to get together. The Staying Sane time is very important, but have adult time with your girlfriends, too. It's very uplifting when you can all get together and laugh at all the little things that crop up when the guys are gone. I hope that helps. If you ever need an ear, call me! God Bless!!!
Love,
Erin
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