Almost 15 years ago, I said “I Do” to this handsome Marine in dress blues. We have two beautiful daughters and are blessed in so many ways. Many of those blessings have come from a result of my husband’s service and our military lifestyle.
I would be lying if I told you that I loved EVERY single thing about this life, because there are definitely things I hate about military life.
But there are SO many things that I simply adore… well, five to be exact. Silver lining… here we come!
5. Personal Growth
Oh, I know it sounds just so corny… but it IS true. Would I have had personal growth if my husband were a plumber instead of a Marine? Sure.
That is a part of life.
But military life has challenged me to learn and grow in ways I would NEVER have imagined. I am not big on the saying “What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger”, but I will tell you that, for me, the stressors of military life have made me stronger in many ways.
I am much more independent now than I think I may have been without the military lifestyle.
My appreciation for certain aspects of life is greater. Taking a risk on new friendships was a skill that used to terrify me, but has become second nature now.
Being resourceful, having a sense of humor, and learning to go with the flow? All great lessons I have learned over the past 15 years.
4. Variety of Experiences
I may complain about living in Arizona… but the reality is that we have done things and met people and learned things that we may never have if we had not been stationed here.
Did you know there is an animal on this earth called a Javelina? Well, Google the cute little things.
Did you know that it can get too hot for planes to land? True story.
Have you visited the Grand Canyon?
Taken a tour of the Bird Cage Theatre in Tombstone?
Been to Disneyland?
With each move, we have experienced something new. We have learned things about the country that you don’t simply learn in a book or can even pick up just by visiting.
The many friends we have made from different walks of military life and cultures have opened our eyes to new point-of-views or customs and traditions.
And I LOVE that.
