How to Deal With the First Deployment of Your Husband | eHow.com

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Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Step1

Normally before a deployment there is what's called a Deployment Fair. It's very important to attend this event because you find out an enormous amount of information. One very critical thing you will find out at this event is how to get Power of Attorney, which is something you will definitely need. You also can get contact for your Family Readiness Group(FRG). This official command-sponsered organization consists of family members, volunteers, and soldiers of a unit who provide support and assistance to the families of deployed soldiers.

Step2

Try not to look at the big picture. Break down the deployment time by concentrating on other smaller time periods. One fun thing to do is to count toothbrushes. Since you are supposed to change toothbrushes every three months, look at a 12 month deployment as just four toothbrush changes. This is something that you and the children can do at home and your husband can do as well.

Step3

Make a list of about 25 fun things that you and the kids can do. For example research fun museums or other interesting places in other cities not too far from your home. Twice a month make the drive to one of the places. Visit shops in the area, have lunch, make a whole day out of it.

Step4

Start something you may have always been interested in. Learn to play an instrument, take a drama, art or photography class or maybe even go back to school. Look into all your resources because you may qualify for scholarships and grants. Also this would be a perfect time to get the children involved in some activity. If you live on base, your children can get a certain amount of lessons and play sports for free. Also you should qualify for a certain amount of free child care hours a month. Check all your resources!

Step5

Set a goal to accomplish by the time he gets home. It could be losing weight, toning up, quitting smoking, or some other bad habit. Make this the time to do it.

Step6

Plan something fun to do when your hubby comes home. Pick out a family vacation destination and start saving for it now. Be sure to check into the Savings Deposit Program because this is a great opportunity to get 10% interest on your savings.

Step7

Stay connected! If your husband is in a place where he can get internet access, make sure you have a webcam. This will be really fun for the children and once the children are in bed, mommy and daddy can have fun as well! It's important to talk as much as possible, to pray with each other, and to respect the trust you have both given to each other. Try not to argue over anything. Instead find a way to make every moment you share fun and loving.