Adjusting to Life after a PCS...

Today was a long day. Little Samantha, who you are currently pottytraining didnt make it to the potty in time and well, lets just say the hardwood got the brunt of that little accident. Your 10 year old conveniently "forgot" to do some of his homework and after insisting he do it while he ate breakfast, he proceeded to spill orange juice all over the table, his homework and the bills you have been ignoring that were stacked in the center in the table. The baby is screaming. You had five minutes to get everyone cleaned up, stop the tears and pack everyone in the car. 8 hours later and you just finished your normal weekday routine, put the kids in bed and are picking up the last of the toys your kids so kindly left behind for you when your husband walks in the door. You expect a kiss and hug, but then he utters the words you knew were coming, but would wreak major havoc and stress in your life: "I got my orders!!!". You smile. While you are a little excited about the prospect of exploring a new city, you also know this means pulling your kids out of school, having to deal with housing issues and most importantly, leaving behind your support group. Your friends.

I know this story pretty well. While I don't have kids and everyone's experiences and situtions vary, it seems that sometimes, adjusting to life after a PCS can be equally as stressful and difficult. I made some great friends at our last Duty Station and even after moving to Maine almost 9 months ago, I have struggled to make friends. Each duty station change can come with different challenges. You might have a great experience with housing during one PCS and feel like you are pulling teeth the next. Each move is unique. What will be difficult during each PCS however, is adjusting to life in a new place. From making friends and forming a new support group for yourself and your kids, to finding the commisary, finding new daycare, making that call to Tricare to change your "region" and updating addresses for every credit card you have, it can all bring new challenges. The military gives you plenty of tips (they even give you a checklist if you request it) for PCS'ing, they fail to give you support when it comes to adjusting to life after a PCS. They fail to prepare you THAT part. That's where "Fleet and Family Services" or other similar programs come in handy. Every base has one and they are there to help you. They can give you information on your new home area, give you dishes and cleaning supplies if you are STILL waiting for your shipment of things, and generally provide you and your family support.

Making new connections and making friends can be difficult, but remember to get involved in the free (or almost free) classes for wives and sports opportunities for your kids. Living on base does come with some great perks for military families. Remember to take advantage of them! While you may be missing your friends back at your old base, thats no excuse. Get out there, get involved and make the best of this big change! The power is really in YOUR hands to make it a great experience or an isolating one!

What has your experience been adjusting to life after a PCS? Have you ever been assisted by programs like "Fleet and Family Services" or other similar programs? How did they help you?

Its Sunday! Take an afternoon Nap!

Jennifer