Preparing for Deployment

Since this is my first deployment, I am not quite certain what to expect. I think I have done about as much research on the subject as I did the entire nine months I was pregnant. I have looked up statistics, pictures, care package ideas, reasons relationships end, ways to make homecoming better, keeping Jay and Jaylyn's relationship active, etc. It's much more than I thought it would be and is a little overwhelming. I am so glad that we have been going to pre-marital counseling, and I am grateful that Chaplain Jones has helped us work through things our relationship was hung up on. Focusing on the positive is also helping some - we will pay off some debt, have ample time to plan our upcoming wedding, and we will be able to experience "absence makes the heart grow fonder" since we have never been apart more than five days in the last year.

Our "To-Do Before Deployment List" is getting shorter, which feels like such a relief. Our latest accomplishment - trading in my SUV for a "new-to-me" car! I am so glad to be out of that note and having "negative equity" in my vehicle. I feel like now I can finally get ahead on my bills. And the best part - Jay paid for 95% of the warranty - so for the next seven years I do not have to worry about my window motor going out, or my transmission messing up, or my muffler falling off. It's all covered - labor AND parts, with NO out-of-pocket expenses. What a great feeling of "non-stress" that gives me!

Now to tackle the rest of the list, celebrate our upcoming anniversary, and spend some quality time together before deployment!