JulieAnn, one of our devoted readers, has joined us here at Waiting for Ships! We are elated and honored to have her.
She is a Coast Guard spouse who writes The Adventures of Julie'uli'uli & Captain Obvious. She is also proud mom to an adorable daughter who was recently welcomed in December!
Thanks for joining us JulieAnn! We can't wait to read more from you.
Showing posts with label spouses. Show all posts
Showing posts with label spouses. Show all posts
Friday, April 30, 2010
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Pampering for Military Spouses in Hampton Roads area
If you haven't read the news graciously shared by Ryan Erickson over at CGBlog.org and you are in the Hampton Roads area, then you may be missing out!
Last week, Ryan shared information about the Joint Military Spouses Committee putting on a day of pampering from 5:30-8:30 pm on 5/12/10 at the Hampton Roads Convention Center. I keep trying to link to Ryan's article, but blogger is not liking me tonight. Anyway, get over to CGBlog.org and search "pampering" for more information.
You can also call your local Family Support Center for information, but that may mean local to Virginia, because I doubt Sitka or Guam would have the information. ;)
Last week, Ryan shared information about the Joint Military Spouses Committee putting on a day of pampering from 5:30-8:30 pm on 5/12/10 at the Hampton Roads Convention Center. I keep trying to link to Ryan's article, but blogger is not liking me tonight. Anyway, get over to CGBlog.org and search "pampering" for more information.
You can also call your local Family Support Center for information, but that may mean local to Virginia, because I doubt Sitka or Guam would have the information. ;)
Sunday, April 25, 2010
Let's Cheer for Volunteers!
So, I'm a little late. Go figure.
Last week was National Volunteer Week. Who knew? Apparently, not I?
This year's theme was, "Celebrating People in Action".
In the Coast Guard community, we have hundreds, no thousands of volunteers. Since the theme last week was celebrating those in action, let's do that here at Waiting for Ships. Send me your stories or stories of your favorite volunteers that we can share here about our fellow Coast Guard spouses. You can remain anonymous, if you choose. You can just use their first name and last initial if you aren't sure they want their name blasted out in cyberspace. Just tell us what they do or what you do so others can learn of ways to get involved or to hear the great things their neighbors are doing.
email info to justagirlinaport (at) gmail (dot) com - maybe we can come up with some prize for the best volunteer story....let me ponder that one
Last week was National Volunteer Week. Who knew? Apparently, not I?
This year's theme was, "Celebrating People in Action".
In the Coast Guard community, we have hundreds, no thousands of volunteers. Since the theme last week was celebrating those in action, let's do that here at Waiting for Ships. Send me your stories or stories of your favorite volunteers that we can share here about our fellow Coast Guard spouses. You can remain anonymous, if you choose. You can just use their first name and last initial if you aren't sure they want their name blasted out in cyberspace. Just tell us what they do or what you do so others can learn of ways to get involved or to hear the great things their neighbors are doing.
email info to justagirlinaport (at) gmail (dot) com - maybe we can come up with some prize for the best volunteer story....let me ponder that one
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
What do you refer to your spouse as, when talking to others?
The Coast Guard is intrigued apparently. Maybe they don't necessarily want to hear your pet names for your loved one (or maybe they do, that's not my business). Maybe they don't want to know what your spouses' friends call him or her. What they do want to know is what the folks in blue should be called.
Many of us refer to our spouses (or even ourselves if we are currently in the CG) as "Coasties". More common know is to hear that "Guardians" are emerging from boot camp ready to fight the war on terror, protect our coasts and interdict drug smugglers.
What should they be called going forward? What is the popular term used? What is the meaning and tradition behind certain terms?
SEND YOUR SPOUSE over to the SURVEY and let them have their say. The DHS Leadership Development Center is collecting this information. Ultimately, they are seeking to answer one question, or one phrase, rather:
"Every member of the U.S. Coast Guard is a ..... "
My favorite choices are: Coastie (of course) and Maritime Agent.
Sunday, January 24, 2010
Day by day stress - a PCS special blog post. :)
Each day Coast Guard spouses and their active duty go about their daily routines. Every day someone learns something new, whether it is that the HAP program is not super easy to navigate or that Tricare is a blessing because you never knew how bad you would need decent health insurance.
As for me, recently, I came to the realization that the world is still twirling at a rapid pace despite my standstill moments of panic. Is it too much to ask that in one day I could resolve our current housing situation, figure out our future housing situation, set the kids up for their new school and maintain my sanity? I know it is still early for many to think about PCS stuff, whether or not you have orders, but my situation depends on who is relocating here. :)
I think my years of going gray may be held at bay if I could just find a renter for our home. Military would be ideal. Of course, you cannot market everywhere because you get slammed with discrimination. So, we must tread lightly and not demonstrate discrimination. Argh. We aren't trying to discriminate, honest, but we would prefer someone with guaranteed BAH to back up their lease application. Makes sense right?
As for the rest of life, there is so much else out there to deal with other than housing in a PCS year. If you have kids, you know how tricky it can be to figure out what schools are options for them, can you afford private, is the public school system decent, or should I seriously contemplate homeschooling. Oh, wait, that is contingent upon working.
As of today, despite the man in blue's wishes, my desire is to stay put, and keep my job: status quo.
I'm stressed. There I've said it. We could just GEO, right? Sure, we'll be a million miles apart, but oftentimes, he'll be underway, and we wouldn't see each other anyway. That way we could keep the house, not worry about selling or renting and just fly him home every now and again when he's in port. Okay, sure that could require additional funds for flights and his living expenses, especially if he desires to live off the boat when in port.
Can you see my dilemma? Sure you can, hundreds of thousands of military spouses deal with this very thing every year. The thing is they survive. They trudge on. They gumby up and make do. Blooming where planted and all that jazz. That is because we know we can. I know I can. I just need to shake off the stress, pull myself up and have faith that it will happen. A renter will find us. We will move and all will be right with the world. Until we PCS again.
As for me, recently, I came to the realization that the world is still twirling at a rapid pace despite my standstill moments of panic. Is it too much to ask that in one day I could resolve our current housing situation, figure out our future housing situation, set the kids up for their new school and maintain my sanity? I know it is still early for many to think about PCS stuff, whether or not you have orders, but my situation depends on who is relocating here. :)
I think my years of going gray may be held at bay if I could just find a renter for our home. Military would be ideal. Of course, you cannot market everywhere because you get slammed with discrimination. So, we must tread lightly and not demonstrate discrimination. Argh. We aren't trying to discriminate, honest, but we would prefer someone with guaranteed BAH to back up their lease application. Makes sense right?
As for the rest of life, there is so much else out there to deal with other than housing in a PCS year. If you have kids, you know how tricky it can be to figure out what schools are options for them, can you afford private, is the public school system decent, or should I seriously contemplate homeschooling. Oh, wait, that is contingent upon working.
As of today, despite the man in blue's wishes, my desire is to stay put, and keep my job: status quo.
I'm stressed. There I've said it. We could just GEO, right? Sure, we'll be a million miles apart, but oftentimes, he'll be underway, and we wouldn't see each other anyway. That way we could keep the house, not worry about selling or renting and just fly him home every now and again when he's in port. Okay, sure that could require additional funds for flights and his living expenses, especially if he desires to live off the boat when in port.
Can you see my dilemma? Sure you can, hundreds of thousands of military spouses deal with this very thing every year. The thing is they survive. They trudge on. They gumby up and make do. Blooming where planted and all that jazz. That is because we know we can. I know I can. I just need to shake off the stress, pull myself up and have faith that it will happen. A renter will find us. We will move and all will be right with the world. Until we PCS again.
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Missed Connections
Sometimes life is a kick in the pants, particularly with respect to the military way of life. You get orders, you move, you make friends, you move again, you make new friends and so forth and so on goes the unending cycle until/unless you retire. I suppose we all retire or get out at some point, whatever. Go with me here. It's my erratic stream of consciousness.
eeks, no, months, back now, the man in blue received orders. Punch in the gut as that news was, it has grown on me and I am working with the idea. Like I have a choice, right? Fast forward to recent events, two friends, there is possibility they could arrive at a place near where I will no longer be residing. Not the same place, but dangerously close to where I sit this very evening. In fact, that place will be thousands upon thousands of miles from where I am headed. Sad? That's a serious understatement.
While I am elated for my fellow spouses (and I truly mean that, please ladies know that I do), I can't help but feel that gut punch again. You know how you just truly feel that there are some people who come into your life for more than just a season? There is a reason beyond all comprehension. Yeah, well these two ladies fit that description. They have been my confidants, support and simply my friends. It is hard to be overjoyed sometimes when inside I'm shouting in my silly little head that it's not fair (imagine a really whiny girly voice screaming that while jumping up and down before she storms off and slams her bedroom door shut).
Self pity aside, I know the detailers have no agenda. They have a job to do. They do it. They don't care how it affects a family much less how it affects friendships. That's a no-brainer. And, of course, that's the way it should be. Still, I wish for an iota of a second the needs of the CG required someone to call me up and say Ma'am where would you like your lovely friends to live next? How can we get you folks together if even just for a year. Now, is that too much to ask?
Don't answer that.
eeks, no, months, back now, the man in blue received orders. Punch in the gut as that news was, it has grown on me and I am working with the idea. Like I have a choice, right? Fast forward to recent events, two friends, there is possibility they could arrive at a place near where I will no longer be residing. Not the same place, but dangerously close to where I sit this very evening. In fact, that place will be thousands upon thousands of miles from where I am headed. Sad? That's a serious understatement.
While I am elated for my fellow spouses (and I truly mean that, please ladies know that I do), I can't help but feel that gut punch again. You know how you just truly feel that there are some people who come into your life for more than just a season? There is a reason beyond all comprehension. Yeah, well these two ladies fit that description. They have been my confidants, support and simply my friends. It is hard to be overjoyed sometimes when inside I'm shouting in my silly little head that it's not fair (imagine a really whiny girly voice screaming that while jumping up and down before she storms off and slams her bedroom door shut).
Self pity aside, I know the detailers have no agenda. They have a job to do. They do it. They don't care how it affects a family much less how it affects friendships. That's a no-brainer. And, of course, that's the way it should be. Still, I wish for an iota of a second the needs of the CG required someone to call me up and say Ma'am where would you like your lovely friends to live next? How can we get you folks together if even just for a year. Now, is that too much to ask?
Don't answer that.
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Thanksgiving
We are about to kick off the holiday season. Now many of you out there reading may not celebrate, and I appreciate that. We all have different beliefs and ways of living, and I respect that. Still, even if you do not celebrate religious holidays, traditional American holidays or even any old day at all, there might be something in your life for which you are thankful, and I'm sure you recognize it in a way that's appropriate for you.
For those of you donning kitchen aprons, whipping up pies and hearing your little ones practice their lines for their school's Thanksgiving day play, I do wish you happiness this week as you consider the blessings in your life. Many of you may be celebrating Thanksgiving far away from your loved ones. Many spouses are deployed. Still, that doesn't mean you have to sacrifice. Sure, it can be difficult to get in the spirit of celebrating when you are feeling melancholy, but don't.
I have been there. And, I know I'll be there again. This year, I expect will be my last Thanksgiving Day with my family for a few years. So, I'm going to try and make the most of it and enjoy every last second, from the stuffing to the bickering and even the cleaning up of dishes after a meal. That's the stuff memories are made of; well that and a whole lot more.
I can remember one year in recent memory that my husband was gone for every stinkin' holiday, even beyond the 'holiday season'. It all started with Thanksgiving. We celebrated early and even put the Christmas tree up that day to so he could partake in those festivities. It did feel a bit rushed, but it meant a lot, to both of us. He still felt a little bit a part of the season, even though he would be gone all the way past New Year's; heck, I believe it was well into the end of January even. Typical, schedule. Not really surprising; but it was not a whole bunch of fun.
For those of you donning kitchen aprons, whipping up pies and hearing your little ones practice their lines for their school's Thanksgiving day play, I do wish you happiness this week as you consider the blessings in your life. Many of you may be celebrating Thanksgiving far away from your loved ones. Many spouses are deployed. Still, that doesn't mean you have to sacrifice. Sure, it can be difficult to get in the spirit of celebrating when you are feeling melancholy, but don't.
I have been there. And, I know I'll be there again. This year, I expect will be my last Thanksgiving Day with my family for a few years. So, I'm going to try and make the most of it and enjoy every last second, from the stuffing to the bickering and even the cleaning up of dishes after a meal. That's the stuff memories are made of; well that and a whole lot more.
I can remember one year in recent memory that my husband was gone for every stinkin' holiday, even beyond the 'holiday season'. It all started with Thanksgiving. We celebrated early and even put the Christmas tree up that day to so he could partake in those festivities. It did feel a bit rushed, but it meant a lot, to both of us. He still felt a little bit a part of the season, even though he would be gone all the way past New Year's; heck, I believe it was well into the end of January even. Typical, schedule. Not really surprising; but it was not a whole bunch of fun.
How can you make your Thanksgiving more enjoyable if you are by yourself or it's just you and your little ones? Why, join your friends of course! I can't think of a military family that would turn away people from their Thanksgiving table. Okay, there might be some out there, but who needs them anyway. Their turkey might not be as yummy as the next guy's. So, make it known. Embrace your "aloneness" and accept any invitation that comes your way--even if you aren't particularly close. You may be pleasantly surprised at the friendships you can develop in these situations. You may also be shocked to know how welcoming your peers can be. Heck, many folks love to invite as many people as they can because they truly believe it's the company that makes the holiday and not the meal. People, in general, love to entertain. Allow them to host and entertain you. It'll show them they are needed and give them warm and fuzzy feelings for reaching out and you'll feel better making new connections or firming up old ones.
Have a wonderful Thanksgiving week, whatever your plans are. Be safe, if you travel, and remember, it's more than the food that makes this a great holiday.
Friday, November 20, 2009
Military Spouse of the Year - wrapping up the nominations
As I type this there are a mere four hours left in the nominating period for MSOY! http://www.msoy.milspouse.com/
The Coast Guard Spouse list started small, but blossomed in the past week in a half. It's wonderful to see all of the phenomenal nominees listed. So many well deserving spouses who don't often get the recognition for their community service, good deeds and altruism.
In the spirit of recognizing spouses, I just want to say a quick thank you here to the wonderful ladies who make this blog possible. They are not only my fellow contributing writers, but they have become my friends, advisors, teachers, consolers, and personal cheerleaders. Not many of our readers know this, but you each have amazing bios that go beyond what you will see here on the site. Folks, these women are passionate, intelligent, dedicated and driven. I must say, that is quite common among Coast Guard spouses and are fellow military spouses of other branches. We have a determination within us to give back; a desire to reach out; and a spirit of loyalty to our families, spouses, and the military community. Gosh, just writing that warms my heart.
I am eager to see what the MSOY contest brings this year and to read the branch finalists' information in January when voting opens up. Until then, I will say thank you to all of you who make me so proud to say I am a Coast Guard spouse.
The Coast Guard Spouse list started small, but blossomed in the past week in a half. It's wonderful to see all of the phenomenal nominees listed. So many well deserving spouses who don't often get the recognition for their community service, good deeds and altruism.
In the spirit of recognizing spouses, I just want to say a quick thank you here to the wonderful ladies who make this blog possible. They are not only my fellow contributing writers, but they have become my friends, advisors, teachers, consolers, and personal cheerleaders. Not many of our readers know this, but you each have amazing bios that go beyond what you will see here on the site. Folks, these women are passionate, intelligent, dedicated and driven. I must say, that is quite common among Coast Guard spouses and are fellow military spouses of other branches. We have a determination within us to give back; a desire to reach out; and a spirit of loyalty to our families, spouses, and the military community. Gosh, just writing that warms my heart.
I am eager to see what the MSOY contest brings this year and to read the branch finalists' information in January when voting opens up. Until then, I will say thank you to all of you who make me so proud to say I am a Coast Guard spouse.
Saturday, November 14, 2009
Gift ideas for this coming holiday season.
We know our families love to see things from our travels and our service or related to our spouses’ service. Of course, it’s often nice to commemorate your grandfather’s years in the Navy or your great aunt’s letters home while she was corresponding from overseas in WWII. How can you turn those memories and treasures into gifts? Here’s just a small list of ideas for you this season:
Michaels: Proud to Serve Framing Collection
Heirloom Chest
Model of the CGC BARQUE EAGLE
Military Coin Display
Dalvey (my personal favorite. I LOVE Dalvey and the man in blue may be sporting one of these soon. Shhhh, he just doesn’t know.)
Some gifts handcrafted by fellow Coast Guard Spouses you may want to check out, not necessarily military specific:
Soaps
ODU Bags
Clay Ornaments
Jewelry
Hairbows/clips
Dog treats
Michaels: Proud to Serve Framing Collection
Heirloom Chest
Model of the CGC BARQUE EAGLE
Military Coin Display
Dalvey (my personal favorite. I LOVE Dalvey and the man in blue may be sporting one of these soon. Shhhh, he just doesn’t know.)
~~~
Some gifts handcrafted by fellow Coast Guard Spouses you may want to check out, not necessarily military specific:
Soaps
ODU Bags
Clay Ornaments
Jewelry
Hairbows/clips
Dog treats
Friday, October 23, 2009
Supporting everyone on the homefront.
So, we here at Waiting for Ships are obviously proud of our men in blue. That doesn't mean we aren't quite proud of our women in blue as well. While we don't have a resident CG husband, we do support our brethren. We do recognize that not all Coast Guard spouses are women. In fact, a number of us have friends who are 'dependent' spouses of the male persuasion.
Okay, let me stop right there. We do have a contributing writer here who is part of a active duty duo. How she and her husband make it all work, amazes me. That being said, he probably would have some interesting insight on being married to a Coast Guards(wo)man. How the heck would one even write that? Am I just chauvinistic here? You'll have to excuse me, because I'd just as soon call everyone "Coast Guardsmen", regardless of gender, but I digress.
One of my husband's good friends and a friend of mine as well is a retired fellow. He now plays the role of spouse, if you will; supporting his diligently working active duty wife. In fact, we just had the pleasure of visiting them, and I continuously ribbed the guy about donning an apron and attending spouse luncheons. Truly though, that's not how it goes, but you knew that didn't you?
Just like us wives, the husbands live their lives. They support there loved ones in blue and maintain their own identity. Male or female, husband or wife, active duty or not, it all comes down to loving the one you are with and respecting their choices, careers, talents, dreams, and so on.
To all you guys out there who wonder where the blog or website is about you, it's right here. We may be a bunch of crazy, silly, witty (I hope) women, but we have the same concerns and plights as you. We deal with the issues about how to tame the yard while chasing a toddler and your spouse is underway. We battle over the t.v. remote when our spouse is in port. We even argue about which one of us is a better BBQ expert.
Yes, even we stylish and bon-bon eating, high-heel wearing girly-girls ;) can PCS cross-country solo; burp the alphabet at a beer-drinking contest at the All Hand's Club (come on I can name a few); conquer WOW; and even change a flat tire (as long as we don't mussy up the manicure). You see, it's not about being a girl or a guy, it's about being a Coast Guard spouse. We adapt and mature as the ebbs and flows of this life bring us through both tough and smooth waters.
More to come on that, and if anyone wants to pipe in on what you want to read about pertaining to male spouses, let us hear it. We want everyone to feel welcome here.
Okay, let me stop right there. We do have a contributing writer here who is part of a active duty duo. How she and her husband make it all work, amazes me. That being said, he probably would have some interesting insight on being married to a Coast Guards(wo)man. How the heck would one even write that? Am I just chauvinistic here? You'll have to excuse me, because I'd just as soon call everyone "Coast Guardsmen", regardless of gender, but I digress.
One of my husband's good friends and a friend of mine as well is a retired fellow. He now plays the role of spouse, if you will; supporting his diligently working active duty wife. In fact, we just had the pleasure of visiting them, and I continuously ribbed the guy about donning an apron and attending spouse luncheons. Truly though, that's not how it goes, but you knew that didn't you?
Just like us wives, the husbands live their lives. They support there loved ones in blue and maintain their own identity. Male or female, husband or wife, active duty or not, it all comes down to loving the one you are with and respecting their choices, careers, talents, dreams, and so on.
To all you guys out there who wonder where the blog or website is about you, it's right here. We may be a bunch of crazy, silly, witty (I hope) women, but we have the same concerns and plights as you. We deal with the issues about how to tame the yard while chasing a toddler and your spouse is underway. We battle over the t.v. remote when our spouse is in port. We even argue about which one of us is a better BBQ expert.
Yes, even we stylish and bon-bon eating, high-heel wearing girly-girls ;) can PCS cross-country solo; burp the alphabet at a beer-drinking contest at the All Hand's Club (come on I can name a few); conquer WOW; and even change a flat tire (as long as we don't mussy up the manicure). You see, it's not about being a girl or a guy, it's about being a Coast Guard spouse. We adapt and mature as the ebbs and flows of this life bring us through both tough and smooth waters.
More to come on that, and if anyone wants to pipe in on what you want to read about pertaining to male spouses, let us hear it. We want everyone to feel welcome here.
Friday, September 11, 2009
Ombudsman Program - Survey seeks your input!
An anonymous survey is currently being conducted through September 18, 2009, seeking to understand how Ombudsmen are being utilized. If you haven't done so already, please take the brief survey and share your experience and thoughts for this program. You may only complete the survey once.
Thursday, July 9, 2009
Welcome to the Coast Guard Family Flo!
If you haven't heard the exciting news, let me share with you that our very own resident-Coastie-girlfriend, Flo, is now a Coastie wife-to-be. Congratulations to her and her beau!
Flo, I know I speak for so many of us, including all the contributing writers here at Waiting for Ships to Come In, when I say that I wish you all the happiness in the world. You have been around the CG long enough to know it is going to be quite a ride. Enjoy every minute of it!
Be sure to check out Flo's personal blog (hope she doesn't chastise me for linking this): Flo! for the amazing news and pictures.
Best wishes Flo!
A good marriage is one which allows for change and
Friday, June 26, 2009
Stats, profile letters and “the list”, Oh My!
The Coast Guard community is buzzing with recent news of advancement information that has recently come out. Spouse forums, listservs, association meetings, and the like, are lit up with requests and questions such as “please send me an email with the stats”, and “what does my spouse’s placement on the list really mean?” You can feel the excitement and anxiety, just by reading various threads and listening to people talk. It reminds me so much of dreamsheet time, the timeframe when orders are cut, OCS list publication time, officer promotion lists, and Warrant Officer announcements. Still, what it all boils down to is hurry up and wait. You know the drill.
We get eager for what is about to come down the pike. We wait. We lose sleep over it. We stop eating. We binge eat. We run to calm our nerves. We chat about it. We research. We are consumed with it all. So much that is released in a single message or even over the telephone through a detailer dictates our lives. Sure, we may try to act nonchalant and pretend it does not matter. Some of us have a façade about going through the mundane of our day-to-day activities. Still, in the back of our minds, what the Coast Guard decides for our spouse greatly impacts us wife/husband; even if we are talking about a dual active duty couple. We are itching to know what comes next. We have to know.
Why do we have to know? Perhaps for you it means the upcoming cuts means a short-tour or maybe your neighbor know has PCS orders and should be researching elementary and high schools for their kids. For someone else, it means possibly having to relocate their civilian job or maybe even give their two weeks (or 6 months) notice. Deny it all you want, but the Coast Guard has us so spun up throughout the year, all because of what comes through to the masses in the way of messages.
I have to be honest; I routinely read internet published ALCOASTS. I swear—I try not to be that wife. I am just keenly interested in what is going on in the Coast Guard world, because despite the fact that I was not issued in the man in blue’s sea bag, it is my world too.
So, what has got you hopping up and down excited right now in the CG world? Or, maybe something has you biting your nails anxiously. Tell us about it!
We get eager for what is about to come down the pike. We wait. We lose sleep over it. We stop eating. We binge eat. We run to calm our nerves. We chat about it. We research. We are consumed with it all. So much that is released in a single message or even over the telephone through a detailer dictates our lives. Sure, we may try to act nonchalant and pretend it does not matter. Some of us have a façade about going through the mundane of our day-to-day activities. Still, in the back of our minds, what the Coast Guard decides for our spouse greatly impacts us wife/husband; even if we are talking about a dual active duty couple. We are itching to know what comes next. We have to know.
Why do we have to know? Perhaps for you it means the upcoming cuts means a short-tour or maybe your neighbor know has PCS orders and should be researching elementary and high schools for their kids. For someone else, it means possibly having to relocate their civilian job or maybe even give their two weeks (or 6 months) notice. Deny it all you want, but the Coast Guard has us so spun up throughout the year, all because of what comes through to the masses in the way of messages.
I have to be honest; I routinely read internet published ALCOASTS. I swear—I try not to be that wife. I am just keenly interested in what is going on in the Coast Guard world, because despite the fact that I was not issued in the man in blue’s sea bag, it is my world too.
So, what has got you hopping up and down excited right now in the CG world? Or, maybe something has you biting your nails anxiously. Tell us about it!
Sunday, May 31, 2009
The Coast Guard Compass
Coast Guard announces new blog, The Coast Guard Compass, hosted at: HTTP://COASTGUARD.DODLIVE.MIL.
From their about us page: "The Coast Guard Compass is the official report of the U.S. Coast Guard on its people and missions. The United States Coast Guard is a military, multimission, maritime service within the Department of Homeland Security and one of the nation’s five armed services. The Coast Guard provides unique benefits to the nation because of its distinctive blend of military, humanitarian, and civilian law-enforcement capabilities. Its core roles are Maritime Safety, Maritime Security, Maritime Mobility, National Defense and the Protection of Natural Resources."
One recent article that you all might enjoy is "Guardian of the Week: The Coast Guard Families". I was humbled and honored to see that our very blog is listed in this particular blog post and that they have included us on their blogroll--thanks Coast Guard Compass! We really do appreciate that.
From their about us page: "The Coast Guard Compass is the official report of the U.S. Coast Guard on its people and missions. The United States Coast Guard is a military, multimission, maritime service within the Department of Homeland Security and one of the nation’s five armed services. The Coast Guard provides unique benefits to the nation because of its distinctive blend of military, humanitarian, and civilian law-enforcement capabilities. Its core roles are Maritime Safety, Maritime Security, Maritime Mobility, National Defense and the Protection of Natural Resources."
One recent article that you all might enjoy is "Guardian of the Week: The Coast Guard Families". I was humbled and honored to see that our very blog is listed in this particular blog post and that they have included us on their blogroll--thanks Coast Guard Compass! We really do appreciate that.
Sunday, May 10, 2009
Happy Mother's Day!
Happy day to all of our mom readers out there!
I remember my first mother's day. It was also the upon day upon which my first anniversary fell, ironically. My husband woke up that morning to leave for a C school states away. Of course, I was disappointed. In fact, I was downright angry. I knew the rules of the game, even early on in our marriage that he would have to leave now and again. It wasn't new to us or to me. Still, alone is not how I wanted to spend this very special day. Perhaps it was a little bit of postpartum hormones getting the best of me too.
The man in blue was bummed about our anniversary, but at the time categorized Mother's Day as just a Hallmark holiday, man-speak for I didn't get you anything, and I don't plan to. Seriously, he thought this. So, I spent the morning begging him to stay (even though I know he couldn't) and probably crying a lot. Out the door he went, and my newborn baby and I hopped in the car and drove to my mom's. I was lucky enough to live within a few hours of her, so that helped to ease the loneliness that came with my husband leaving on this particular day.
At any rate, fast forward to this morning. My man in blue is home this year. yippee! The family has grown and I know have three eager children bestowing me with cards and homemade gifts. My husband even gave me the most beautiful claddagh ring with an emerald set in it that he got from a port call in Colombia about 5 years ago. It's beautiful. Needless to say, my man has come around, and loves to surprise me, Hallmark holiday or not.
So, today we are home enjoying each other because we know that next year may bring a different scenario. He could be home, he could be away, only time will tell. Whatever the case may be, I think I've grown a bit and the water works may not be as bad if he were to be gone again. Still, I suppose we each deserve to succumb to the sadness a little bit on occasions like these. We just don't have to let it consume us.
To all of you mother's out there, I hope you have a special day whatever you may be doing and whomever you may be spending it with!
I remember my first mother's day. It was also the upon day upon which my first anniversary fell, ironically. My husband woke up that morning to leave for a C school states away. Of course, I was disappointed. In fact, I was downright angry. I knew the rules of the game, even early on in our marriage that he would have to leave now and again. It wasn't new to us or to me. Still, alone is not how I wanted to spend this very special day. Perhaps it was a little bit of postpartum hormones getting the best of me too.
The man in blue was bummed about our anniversary, but at the time categorized Mother's Day as just a Hallmark holiday, man-speak for I didn't get you anything, and I don't plan to. Seriously, he thought this. So, I spent the morning begging him to stay (even though I know he couldn't) and probably crying a lot. Out the door he went, and my newborn baby and I hopped in the car and drove to my mom's. I was lucky enough to live within a few hours of her, so that helped to ease the loneliness that came with my husband leaving on this particular day.
At any rate, fast forward to this morning. My man in blue is home this year. yippee! The family has grown and I know have three eager children bestowing me with cards and homemade gifts. My husband even gave me the most beautiful claddagh ring with an emerald set in it that he got from a port call in Colombia about 5 years ago. It's beautiful. Needless to say, my man has come around, and loves to surprise me, Hallmark holiday or not.
So, today we are home enjoying each other because we know that next year may bring a different scenario. He could be home, he could be away, only time will tell. Whatever the case may be, I think I've grown a bit and the water works may not be as bad if he were to be gone again. Still, I suppose we each deserve to succumb to the sadness a little bit on occasions like these. We just don't have to let it consume us.
To all of you mother's out there, I hope you have a special day whatever you may be doing and whomever you may be spending it with!
Monday, April 27, 2009
Superhero Extraordinaire
My husband is amazing. He is a wonderful father and loving husband. He is a man's man, who keeps his word and lends a hand where needed. He does not wear a cape, but he can wear the heck out of a uniform and make a girl blush.
When we first met, my husband told me he would be getting out of the Coast Guard. He had his mind made up. He thought perhaps a police or fire department would be a better fit for him. Luckily for the Coast Guard he decided to reenlist. Now, he is at the point where getting out would seem silly to most. You know how that is, once you hit 10 years, it just makes sense to stay in.
What is so remarkable to me is the fact that not only did my man in blue opt to reenlist time and again, but he also revamped his career. His outlook has completely changed. He matured along the way and more than I think he even expected. His priorities changed, and he now sees the Coast Guard in a much different light. What once was a job is now an adventure, a career, a life. And, he is living it up, making a difference and impacting lives.
I am certainly biased. I would not have married the man, if I did not see promise and hope in him. Still, the accolades he receives for jobs well done; the reputation he has with his shipmates and other units; and even the assistance he gives to others when it's not his job, reminds me that he is extraordinary. He doesn't have to go above and beyond, but he does. He does so much more than he probably even saw himself doing years back within the Coast Guard and the community.
The Coast Guard has been a terrific vehicle for my love to come into his own. And, he certainly has. I know a number of folks would agree with me. In his line of work, he is a go-to-guy. His expertise is sought out frequently up and down the seaboard and even through some of the schools. Now, that is something to be proud of! Still, he does his job with the same work ethic each and every day and reaches out to assist those in need when he can. To him, that's all part of being a Coast Guardsman and good guy.
I just wanted to say a little something about this man that makes me so proud each and every day, doing what he loves. His unit has thanked him with recognition, and I just wanted to do the same. I am honored to be married to a superhero.
When we first met, my husband told me he would be getting out of the Coast Guard. He had his mind made up. He thought perhaps a police or fire department would be a better fit for him. Luckily for the Coast Guard he decided to reenlist. Now, he is at the point where getting out would seem silly to most. You know how that is, once you hit 10 years, it just makes sense to stay in.
What is so remarkable to me is the fact that not only did my man in blue opt to reenlist time and again, but he also revamped his career. His outlook has completely changed. He matured along the way and more than I think he even expected. His priorities changed, and he now sees the Coast Guard in a much different light. What once was a job is now an adventure, a career, a life. And, he is living it up, making a difference and impacting lives.
I am certainly biased. I would not have married the man, if I did not see promise and hope in him. Still, the accolades he receives for jobs well done; the reputation he has with his shipmates and other units; and even the assistance he gives to others when it's not his job, reminds me that he is extraordinary. He doesn't have to go above and beyond, but he does. He does so much more than he probably even saw himself doing years back within the Coast Guard and the community.
The Coast Guard has been a terrific vehicle for my love to come into his own. And, he certainly has. I know a number of folks would agree with me. In his line of work, he is a go-to-guy. His expertise is sought out frequently up and down the seaboard and even through some of the schools. Now, that is something to be proud of! Still, he does his job with the same work ethic each and every day and reaches out to assist those in need when he can. To him, that's all part of being a Coast Guardsman and good guy.
I just wanted to say a little something about this man that makes me so proud each and every day, doing what he loves. His unit has thanked him with recognition, and I just wanted to do the same. I am honored to be married to a superhero.
Sunday, March 29, 2009
Let's Settle a Wedding Attire Debate- What's right about the whites?
One of our lovely readers sent me a message today!
The question is all about a uniform on a wedding day. I wanted to share with you all since we all have different opinions and it might be helpful to our reader.
Reader said: My daughter who is marrying a Coastie in August 2010. The groom will be an O-3 with 2-3 groomsmen being fellow officers. He wants to wear dress whites, but this is interfering with the dress selections my daughter is focusing on (they are shades of white and just don't look good with the CG whites). Would dress blues be appropriate here? Is there an appropriate uniform selection here? What about the groomsmen? The ceremony is early afternoon and the reception is 6-10pm. My daughter and her fiance attended the All Academy Ball in Chicago in December 2007 and we thought that he looked pretty good in a formal blue uniform.
Dear Reader:
First, let me say congratulations to your daughter and your family. What a momentous occasion to be celebrating. I remember fondly the planning stages of my own wedding. Of course, I remember the bickering, petty squabbles and silliness too.
Second, let me state that a wedding is really about the union of two people. Really, in the grand scheme of things, that is the most important thing. You already knew that though. Of course, it's hard not to get caught up in the little things when you are planning perhaps the biggest day of your daughters life.
Surely right now people are screaming at me through their computer screens. It's all about the dress! or It's her wedding, let her decide!
I say, it's the groom's day too! Let him wear his whites. Dress blues in the summertime, yikes! Unless they are getting married inside in Air Conditioning or in the Antarctic, I REALLY emphasize the whites. The bride and groom will look beautiful.
I say forget the blue and stick with the whites. The bride and groom don't have to be matchy-matchy. No one will be gossiping about what did or did not clash. If they do, ignore them and tell them to get over it.
Good luck to the happy couple in whatever attire they decide. I am sure my fellow bloggers will pipe in soon with their thoughts on the matter as well. So be sure to read the comments here.
Thanks for reading!
The question is all about a uniform on a wedding day. I wanted to share with you all since we all have different opinions and it might be helpful to our reader.
Reader said: My daughter who is marrying a Coastie in August 2010. The groom will be an O-3 with 2-3 groomsmen being fellow officers. He wants to wear dress whites, but this is interfering with the dress selections my daughter is focusing on (they are shades of white and just don't look good with the CG whites). Would dress blues be appropriate here? Is there an appropriate uniform selection here? What about the groomsmen? The ceremony is early afternoon and the reception is 6-10pm. My daughter and her fiance attended the All Academy Ball in Chicago in December 2007 and we thought that he looked pretty good in a formal blue uniform.
Dear Reader:
First, let me say congratulations to your daughter and your family. What a momentous occasion to be celebrating. I remember fondly the planning stages of my own wedding. Of course, I remember the bickering, petty squabbles and silliness too.
Second, let me state that a wedding is really about the union of two people. Really, in the grand scheme of things, that is the most important thing. You already knew that though. Of course, it's hard not to get caught up in the little things when you are planning perhaps the biggest day of your daughters life.
Surely right now people are screaming at me through their computer screens. It's all about the dress! or It's her wedding, let her decide!
I say, it's the groom's day too! Let him wear his whites. Dress blues in the summertime, yikes! Unless they are getting married inside in Air Conditioning or in the Antarctic, I REALLY emphasize the whites. The bride and groom will look beautiful.
I say forget the blue and stick with the whites. The bride and groom don't have to be matchy-matchy. No one will be gossiping about what did or did not clash. If they do, ignore them and tell them to get over it.
Good luck to the happy couple in whatever attire they decide. I am sure my fellow bloggers will pipe in soon with their thoughts on the matter as well. So be sure to read the comments here.
Thanks for reading!
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Happy New Year!
With each year that passes comes memories to cherish and some to forget. I imagine many Coast Guard families are eagerly looking toward what the new year will bring. Many await orders, advancements and boards while others are thrilled with an increase of BAH and possibly COLA. Some delight about and others frown upon the new uniforms coming down the pike and others are giddy with excitement about possible new rates on the horizon.
Personally, this year has been a joyous one for me. Sure there have been low points, but like any part-time optimist, I like to focus on the highs. Late last year, a friend/colleague and I began discussing a project that could benefit the Coast Guard family community. With some effort, the project developed into something very promising in January 2008 and with the help of some talented spouses the project will become so much more in the months and years to come. We are finding ways to support Coast Guard spouses and their families and are inspired by one another to keep growing. Of course, that project would have been nothing but a blip on the radar screen if it wasn’t for the Waiting for Ships blog.
One Big Coastie Family (aka Waiting for Ships) came to fruition this past February. I cannot express my thanks enough to the amazing contributors to this blog. I appreciate each and every one of you! I have been far too absent in posting since I returned to the daily grind and these ladies have kept this little ship afloat with their anecdotes and messages. Many folks have contacted us over the past months to extend their thanks for our blog and connect with their own experiences and that warms my heart.
As this year comes to a close, I wish you and yours a wonderful and prosperous 2009. I am grateful to have my husband by my side this year as there have been many years that he’s been away at sea on this momentous night. If you are as fortunate, hug your loved one close and if you are not, thank you for keeping the home fires burning. I raise my glass to you!
Personally, this year has been a joyous one for me. Sure there have been low points, but like any part-time optimist, I like to focus on the highs. Late last year, a friend/colleague and I began discussing a project that could benefit the Coast Guard family community. With some effort, the project developed into something very promising in January 2008 and with the help of some talented spouses the project will become so much more in the months and years to come. We are finding ways to support Coast Guard spouses and their families and are inspired by one another to keep growing. Of course, that project would have been nothing but a blip on the radar screen if it wasn’t for the Waiting for Ships blog.
One Big Coastie Family (aka Waiting for Ships) came to fruition this past February. I cannot express my thanks enough to the amazing contributors to this blog. I appreciate each and every one of you! I have been far too absent in posting since I returned to the daily grind and these ladies have kept this little ship afloat with their anecdotes and messages. Many folks have contacted us over the past months to extend their thanks for our blog and connect with their own experiences and that warms my heart.
As this year comes to a close, I wish you and yours a wonderful and prosperous 2009. I am grateful to have my husband by my side this year as there have been many years that he’s been away at sea on this momentous night. If you are as fortunate, hug your loved one close and if you are not, thank you for keeping the home fires burning. I raise my glass to you!
With solemn hearts, we have said fair winds and following seas to many members of this Coast Guard family in 2008. Unexpected tragedies as well as deaths as a result of illness touched many of our lives. The list is long from active and reserve Coasties, to retired Coast Guard personnel to spouses and children. Our sympathies continue to be with the families and friends of all those who have passed on this year.
In closing and in the nautical spirit, I’d like to borrow from the English translation of Scotsman Robert Burn’s poem “Auld Lang Syne”:
We two have paddled in the stream,from morning sun till dine;
But seas between us broad have roaredsince auld lang syne.
Salut!
Thursday, October 16, 2008
Goodness. It's quiet around here.
Well everyone must be busy with the long-weekend for Columbus Day behind us and Halloween coming up soon. Maybe it's the chill in the air, in most places or the foliage that has us distracted. Of course, I know our ladies in the South, Cali and way up North in Alaska are probably enjoying different weather. How goes it in your neck of the woods? Remember, it's still hurricane season, so brush up on the tips posted earlier this season by Amber and Mary on our blog, especially if you are in a hurricane prone area.
I have been swamped with work of all types lately. Rather than bore you with all of that though, I will say I am currently enjoying my husband being home. We are looking at him possibly leaving again soon for a short trip, but that is doable. Some of our contributors right now are still enduring some lengthy separations and others are getting ready for deployment time again.
This time of year can make or break the spirit in terms of deployments. With the holidays upon us, we all want our loved ones to be home for the Big Days. You know where you can gorge yourself on turkey and trim the tree and say a toast at midnight. Still, in this life, we know that there will be times that we cannot always be with our Coasties on those most special days. So, many opt to celebrate in different ways and often on different days throughout the year. We make the most of what time we have and try to understand the needs of the Coast Guard. That's just how we roll. :)
Anyone have a unique holiday tradition story to share? What do you do when your loved one is deployed on a Big Day?
I have been swamped with work of all types lately. Rather than bore you with all of that though, I will say I am currently enjoying my husband being home. We are looking at him possibly leaving again soon for a short trip, but that is doable. Some of our contributors right now are still enduring some lengthy separations and others are getting ready for deployment time again.
This time of year can make or break the spirit in terms of deployments. With the holidays upon us, we all want our loved ones to be home for the Big Days. You know where you can gorge yourself on turkey and trim the tree and say a toast at midnight. Still, in this life, we know that there will be times that we cannot always be with our Coasties on those most special days. So, many opt to celebrate in different ways and often on different days throughout the year. We make the most of what time we have and try to understand the needs of the Coast Guard. That's just how we roll. :)
Anyone have a unique holiday tradition story to share? What do you do when your loved one is deployed on a Big Day?
Friday, September 26, 2008
A Reader Shares Thanks - Common perspectives
Recently we received a very nice note from one of our newer blog readers. She “wanted to send a quick note of thanks for [the blog]”. Her message touched on how sometimes it’s difficult to deal with the strain the CG life can put on a relationship. I think we’ve all been there at one point or another. I know that for me personally it was more difficult when I didn’t have a strong support group. And, by support group, I mean a bunch of fellow military wives/girlfriends that I could kvetch with about a sour day or with whom I could share news of a looming advancement. They just got it and got me.
Our reader also discussed how she was never exposed to a military lifestyle before and that “[i]t's definitely an adjustment." She said, "This blog has helped me see the positives in being a Coastie wife/girlfriend and (try to) stay flexible.” Isn’t it nice to know you are not alone? I think we all seek that kind of feeling in our lives.
At times, I feel a bit guilty for being able to cope (most of the time). You see having been in the military I was already forced to accept that you there is always a hurry up and wait situation and how flexibility is not an option but rather more of a requirement. If you aren’t flexible, you just might break. And, really, who wants that? Brittle pieces of you scattered all over the map just is not ideal, and it makes a big mess. Perhaps that is why I hear so much about lubrication. Yes, that must be it! The reference must be in regard to lubrication of joints, ligaments and tendons, to ensure that we are pliable and maintain our elasticity.
So, dear reader, even though you mentioned how “it's not [your] first nature for [you] to be flexible” you did say you were trying and that’s what really matters. We get that. It is not easy. I think there is a saying that goes something like Anything that’s worth doing, isn’t always easy. Isn’t that the truth?
I will share with you something a bit comical. Our reader touched upon how it is “hard to stay positive all the time when plans get cancelled or put off because of a last minute deployment”. It is the nature of the beast, but that doesn’t mean it is always that with which we want to deal. Anyway, my father-in-law was planning on a visit. My husband told him he may be sent on orders somewhere, but that he was basically in a standby to standby position. Exasperated, his father (who is an Army vet mind you) actually asked, “Why can’t they give you an answer? Don’t they realize people have lives? How can anyone make plans?” To this the man in blue replied, “Easy, I make plans and if I have to cancel, I just cancel.” That is it. He was just matter-of-fact about it. I will say that not everyone has this attitude. It has taken us awhile to learn to roll with the punches. We chose this life, and we try to remember that when we get frustrated and irritated with how things can go. After all, we know there is not some guy or gal in an Ivory Tower handing down orders to screw up someone’s weekend or holiday plans. It is not personal. It is simply part of this life. (Of course, that doesn’t mean we eagerly accept everything with a happy face; we are human and sometimes our emotions come through in a not-so-pleasant way.)
Just hang in there. It sounds like you are doing your best to support your loved one and applaud his efforts. We hope you keep coming back and even post some comments. We would love to hear from you. And, if I may add one pun (bad as it may be), remember, we are all in this boat together.
Our reader also discussed how she was never exposed to a military lifestyle before and that “[i]t's definitely an adjustment." She said, "This blog has helped me see the positives in being a Coastie wife/girlfriend and (try to) stay flexible.” Isn’t it nice to know you are not alone? I think we all seek that kind of feeling in our lives.
At times, I feel a bit guilty for being able to cope (most of the time). You see having been in the military I was already forced to accept that you there is always a hurry up and wait situation and how flexibility is not an option but rather more of a requirement. If you aren’t flexible, you just might break. And, really, who wants that? Brittle pieces of you scattered all over the map just is not ideal, and it makes a big mess. Perhaps that is why I hear so much about lubrication. Yes, that must be it! The reference must be in regard to lubrication of joints, ligaments and tendons, to ensure that we are pliable and maintain our elasticity.
So, dear reader, even though you mentioned how “it's not [your] first nature for [you] to be flexible” you did say you were trying and that’s what really matters. We get that. It is not easy. I think there is a saying that goes something like Anything that’s worth doing, isn’t always easy. Isn’t that the truth?
I will share with you something a bit comical. Our reader touched upon how it is “hard to stay positive all the time when plans get cancelled or put off because of a last minute deployment”. It is the nature of the beast, but that doesn’t mean it is always that with which we want to deal. Anyway, my father-in-law was planning on a visit. My husband told him he may be sent on orders somewhere, but that he was basically in a standby to standby position. Exasperated, his father (who is an Army vet mind you) actually asked, “Why can’t they give you an answer? Don’t they realize people have lives? How can anyone make plans?” To this the man in blue replied, “Easy, I make plans and if I have to cancel, I just cancel.” That is it. He was just matter-of-fact about it. I will say that not everyone has this attitude. It has taken us awhile to learn to roll with the punches. We chose this life, and we try to remember that when we get frustrated and irritated with how things can go. After all, we know there is not some guy or gal in an Ivory Tower handing down orders to screw up someone’s weekend or holiday plans. It is not personal. It is simply part of this life. (Of course, that doesn’t mean we eagerly accept everything with a happy face; we are human and sometimes our emotions come through in a not-so-pleasant way.)
Just hang in there. It sounds like you are doing your best to support your loved one and applaud his efforts. We hope you keep coming back and even post some comments. We would love to hear from you. And, if I may add one pun (bad as it may be), remember, we are all in this boat together.
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