Military Wives are Vultures

In the nearly 4 years my husband has been active duty, one thing that is so apparent is some military wives are viscous creatures.

I don't want to even acknowledge them as human beings, because in my eyes, there are many who are scum. Scum in so many different forms.

I have found, at least here at his first duty station, it is hard to find people who are genuine, true friends and true to their significant others. On top of that, there are some extremely nosy scum out there and love to get mess twisted to start rumors.

Here are the different vultures I am referring to:

a. You have the tag chasers. And by tag chasers, I mean the girl who just bounces around from service member to service member. The girl who doesn't care if the service member is in a relationship.. it just ups her game. The girl who doesn't even love her significant other, but is rather obsessed with the lifestyle and the "glory" she perceives this life to be.

b. You have those who are so fixated with the lifestyle. I understand there is "excitement", but then there is overboard. When my husband joined, I was overly proud. I'm overly patriotic and always have been. But at some point, you have to recognize the military is his job. Yes, this is a lifestyle to adjust to, but this is HIS job. By fixated, I'm making reference to those who feel as if they, themselves, are "Military". I understand when people refer to non-military families as "civilians", I understand it because it's the easiest way to refer to it. But we do need to realize as wives, we are not active duty.. or even in the reserves, no special rank.. no rank whatsoever- we are a civilian. Relish in the fact that you, unless you enlisted, are not government property.

c. You have bullies. It's sad to say, but I know 8 year olds who are more mature than a lot of the ladies I have met in the past 4 years. I don't understand why so many spouses to active duty military feel the need to belittle and bully other spouses. "Oh you're fat, You're ugly, Can you believe she wore that to the commissary, someone's been eating too many twinkies".. etc. I've read some extremely ridiculous posts belittling people on Facbook as well as in the blog world, It's disgusting.

d. Those who think we are owed something for our SO being active duty. You aren't owed anything. YES, this life has challenges- but so do non-military families aka "civilian families". Every single person in this world has their own set of challenges to face. I for one, am grateful for the ease of life I have now compared to what I had before my husband joined the Navy. By ease, I don't mean there aren't challenges, but I'm happy where I'm at and I'll gladly wait for him through a deployment vs. go back to eating peanut butter sandwhiches every day, 3 times a day to pay rent. And to clear things up, I married my husband before he joined- just to stop the vultures that say, "You married him for the military/ money".

e. The cheaters. Yes, I know there are men in the military who cheat- that is a different tangent. I'm talking about those who are "SO in love" with their husband, but after 5 months of a deployment, find themselves in bed with another man. Seriously, cheating is NEVER an accident. YOU can prevent yourself being put in a situation that could lead to cheating. My husband has been deployed a few months, and the fact that I have heard of several gals cheating is insane. WHY did you get married? I mean, if you truly LOVE someone, you wouldn't cheat. Staying faithful shouldn't be hard.

I could keep going, but I'm going to leave it at that. Find your own identity, not your significant other's job status.

Things Not to Say?

Lately I have been seeing many Military wives, girlfriends, fiances...etc. posting things "Not" to say to a military SO.. those things being said also having responses. I read the "Things not to say" and some of them.. I see a different response. I don't get annoyed or irritated by the questions. I really think I just view Military life a little differently than a lot of people.. Maybe I have a better grasp on my emotions, I'm unsure what it is. BUT I don't let all the little things people on the outside of Military life say bother me. Sometimes the judgments on the military and military family life, Do irritate me. So, in a sense.. Somethings are better not said to a Military SO, but those people making those judgments don't know. They are ignorant to military lifestyle.

I'm unsure of the site this was pulled from.. or who originally wrote this one. I have seen several of which pretty much say the same things. Look for my added notes to each thing "Not to say to a Military Wife". My notes are in red to the Question/ statement and the response to those.

• Do you miss him? No. I love being alone. The silence is warming. I enjoy fixing everything that breaks and cuddling with my pillow.

Of course we miss them. It is a given that we do. If we didn't, something would seriously be wrong.

• My boyfriend is out of town on business, I know how you feel. Yes I hear there is a huge mortar problem in Michigan.

Correct, this person does know how we feel in terms of MISSING someone.. Missing is missing. And, quite possibly.. they may know what it's like to worry about their boyfriend. You don't know what kind of business they are on. Military is not the only dangerous job. Seems both sides are too quick to judge.

• Aren't you afraid he'll die? No, I had actually forgotten that that was a possibility, but thank you. Thank you for reminding me.

Although, Not the best question to ask.. But are you afraid your loved one will get killed in a car wreck on the way to work? The possibility is there for both Military and Civilians to have life taken away at any given moment. 

• I don't know how you manage, I couldn't do it. Thank god it's not you then. Phew.

This is one thing I hear most often. And the response irritates me, not the question. Anyone can do this life. It's a choice. You'd be surprised what you can and will do for the one you love and want to spend your life with. If you can't handle it, GOOD for you for admitting that. There are people that need more of a physical relationship, and military lifestyle wouldn't be ideal for them.

• At least he's not in Iraq/Afghanistan/Qatar. He’s not!? Shit, that changes everything.

The statement somewhat gets under my skin, but it's the fact that unless that person is directly involved, they aren't going to know what situations are faced, where and when. They are only going to know what they hear, what they see on the news and what they read. This is where we as Military SOs need to be the bigger person and maybe educate them a little bit instead of being overly sarcastic.

• Do you think he'll come home for Christmas/Birthday/Anniversary? I don't know yet, he just put in his leave request to the Taliban, we're still waiting for a response.

This question has never bothered me. Some  do get R&R and sometimes.. they are lucky enough to get R&R on a special occasion. OR maybe that person is wondering if Deployment would be over by one of those times. Yes, our SOs are going to miss dates that are important. It's part of it. But we are on the inside of things. We know how things run... someone else who is not "in the know" isn't going to always know how things operate. 

• What are you going to do to keep busy while he's gone? I don't know. Since he's been gone the house cleans itself, the bills are magically paid, and the kids are angels.

Why are we flaming the person asking the question here? I personally ask this question, and have been asked this question many times by other Military wives. Yes, we still have our every day duties, but it is obvious things are going to be different with time. There is going to be more time to yourself, or to yourself with kids that you didn't have before. I'm sure you planned things with your Significant other often.. even if it was just lounging together at home. So, What are you doing to keep yourself busy while he's gone? I've set goals to accomplish by homecoming. Lots of projects, both big and small.

• How many days until he gets out? Depends. How many days until you join?

Another question with no reason to be snappy or sarcastic. Not everyone joins the military with a career in mind and some join with career in mind and choose otherwise. I have military friends that ask this question all the time. Just because it is a civilian, WHY is it any different? Answer, my husband is in for career. 

• You'll get used to it. Yeah, the rigorous schedule is something I get used to. I'm actually a robot. I love watching the news, and the surprise missions are like tiny birthday presents from hell. Yes, I'm getting used to it like I get used to a tooth ache.

"You'll get use to it". Some do and some don't.. and there are some that don't allow themselves to get use to it. I am one that fits the statement.. I'm already use to this military lifestyle. I'm use to him being away. For some.. they will never be use to it. Everyone handles it differently.

• What is he doing over there? Knitting.

This is an honest question. Not all deployments are war missions. Some deployment are peace missions, to help people. Military isn't just about fighting and I believe there are some military wives and civilians alike that have yet to realize this. My husband is just doing his job over there.

• He signed up for it. It's his fault is anything happens to him. Yes, and it's your fault for any teeth you're about to lose.

Irritating statement.. but I'll give it to you. In a technical sense, you are correct. He did sign up for the military. I wouldn't suggest saying that to someone whose SO is deployed. Not going to say I disagree with the response- I actually found it to be humorous. 

• That's awful, I'm sorry! Don't be, he looked hot doing it. He's good. Did your husband fix your sink?

When talking about deployments, It is common for an outsider to say "I'm sorry". No harm in it.. and the response almost seems to belittle the one making the statement.. or her husband anyway. My response would have been, "No need to be sorry, we signed up for this lifestyle. He's doing his job just like your husband goes and does his. Mine just chose a career path that takes him on long business trips. He's doing what he loves and I'm supporting his decision.".

• Why don't you just go see him? They frown upon strangers 'round those parts, but by all means, go visit and let me know how it goes.

Again, SOME people just don't know. Why let it bother you because they honestly don't know what it's like? Would it not be better to educate them on the facts?

• Don't worry, he'll be home soon. Really? I thought we had 8 months left. Thank goodness you reminded me.

Would you rather them say, "He's never coming home."? Although, it may seem like a long time, every day that passes puts them to being home "sooner".. there is one less day than the day before. Although it may not be "soon enough".. It's not forever.

• How do you go without sex? Luckily we hold our relationship to a higher standard than simply our physical contact. Oh, and I have self control. Oh, and I only want one man. It's super easy that way.

I'm just going to stick with the statement reply on this one. I agree. A military relationship needs to be more than a physical relationship to survive. 

• Could he not finish college? Nah those Taliban guys don't like to negotiate.

This is a common ignorance question. Some see the military as the easy way out.. a job for those that had nothing better to do, no other options, or joined to go to school. But there are many who chose to join when they finished their schooling. There are some that joined without making the decision of going to school right away because they knew the military was the career they wanted. Some don't realize that Military IS a job.. Some seem to look at it as something different, something other than a choice.

• How can you support someone that kills people? It doesn't count if it's in a different zip code.

This is one of those questions that do get under my skin. It's best to just ignore the question and leave it be- at least for me.

• Don't you worry he'll cheat over there? Yes, I'm super worried that he's going to want to sleep with a woman who isn't allowed to speak or someone he works with and risk losing his job. That's what I'm uber worried about.

Counter the question. Are you worried your SO will cheat? If you have no worries, why should I? If I had worries, then I wouldn't Trust my husband. I'm not worried because I TRUST him. Just because he's military, doesn't mean he'd cheat any more than if he was a civilian.

• How can you be with someone who is gone for so long? At least we don't spend 12 months thinking up new ways to hate each other like....oh...sorry.

Simple answer is always sufficient. I love him. This ties into the "I couldn't do it" statement.

• You look tired. Yeah unfortunately the middle east is in a different hemisphere and no one will move it.

Why is this something not to say? IF it's because I was awake emailing back and forth for any given time.. Then I would smile if someone said I look tired. I actually got to talk to my husband for a few minutes.

• You never know what goes on over there and his buddies aren't going to rat him out. Yeah, because they're all eating and sleeping.

 Refer to the "cheating" question.

• The time will fly. Time will fly, pigs will fly, hell will freeze over....I'm still waiting.

 Yup, I agree. Time WILL fly- but that depends on the person, what they do to make time go by faster for them. Time is Flying for me.

• You're lucky. ....compared to.....?

You are SO right. I AM lucky. Deployment is teaching my husband and I so much about each other and allowing us to fall in love so much more deeply. I am lucky, and I'll hear this one any day.

• Did you hear about the soldiers killed in - Awesome, thank you. I was hoping someone would slip that into conversation today.

Not a statement I prefer to hear.. but at some point, someone is going to say it. And it very may well be it could be a Military wife friend who says it.. It's all part of it. Being in this lifestyle, you're going to be prone to hearing such things more often than not.

• Can't you text him? Why didn't I think of that!?

 Actually, YES! I can.... But not in the way you would think. I can send a text to his email and when he email's back, it comes to me as a text. A lot of people don't know they can do this. Some service providers may not.. but Verizon does.

• That sucks. Well aware.

Nah, it doesn't suck. It's part of the job... and I like connecting with my husband so deeply.

• Are you pregnant!? What if you don't get another chance? Do I look pregnant?

I haven't heard this one before.. I don't know if it bothers me.. Or even if I have anything to think about it. 

• Oh he's in the military...the easy way out. Do you take automatic weaponry with you to brush your teeth?

This one bothers me some. I've had a friend from my hometown say this. And it beyond irritated me, and I did my best to educate him on his faulty statistics he pulled out of nowhere.. but With some people.. it's best to shake your head and leave it be- IF they don't want to listen or change their opinion on a topic they know nothing about.

• You deserve someone who can be there for you. Well mine has special powers that yours doesn't.

This is when I say, YES! You are right. I DO deserve that. And because he's away, Doesn't mean he is any less here for me. Someone can be with you physically and still "Not be there for you". My husband is always here for me.

• You should spend more time being proud than sad. I tried that and it sucked, so now I'm taking the Ben & Jerry approach. Feel free to ride your butterfly out of here.

I agree with this statement. We should spend more time being proud than sad. Let yourself have some bad days, but why would you want to let every day be a sad day? Be proud.. because that's what we should be.. Proud of our husbands, boyfriends, fiances, brothers, sisters.. etc. 

• The front lines are the most dangerous. Dammit, I thought they aimed for the back.

It's all dangerous and we don't need reminders to know it any different.

• If there's anything I can do, let me know. I hope you're a magician with unlimited minutes.

Why would this be something not to say? This is something that you should WANT people to say. You're going to want someone to talk to .. someone to listen. Why not say thank you?

• How do you do it? I haven't written down the process yet, but I'll get back to you.

Refer to earlier questions, as some tie into this one. I like this question.. and if Someone asks me.. I don't get upset, or irritated. I smile and give my response. It's not about "How" you do it. It's "Why" you do it. I love him and that's more than enough reason to do it.

Wives VS Girlfriends... Military Style

Today I was told that Military Girlfriends have it harder than Wives. No problem that she thinks that.. but she's also looking at if from the perspective of a girlfriend, who has never been a wife.. a Military wife at that.

I do think that Both Military Girlfriends, and Wives have it hard. With some of the emotional dealings.. we may be on the same page to an extent. But me, Personally.. I believe wives have it much harder than someone who is just a girlfriend. I mean that with no offense to anyone. I have been both. So, I am talking from personal experience here.

Most of you know my beliefs on marriage. I'm one of those "Marriage is for life", "Divorce is not an option" gals. I was told by this same Girlfriend that "Wife" is just a title that doesn't mean anything more than "Girlfriend"... that nothing extra comes with it. For me, it's more than my religious views on marriage.. it is also part of my morals.. and everything I have been brought up to believe. I have his last name.. He is mine and I am his. I am very old fashioned when it comes to my beliefs on marriage. Thankfully, I'm married to a great man who feels the same as I do. Back to the point..

Girlfriends have it tough, we all know it can be rough being the significant other to a service member. BUT there is a reason you have the title of just 'Girlfriend'. That is between you and your boyfriend.. whether he hasn't popped the question (he's not ready..), the two of you are waiting, etc. That's between the two of you. BUT you have it no tougher than a wife who is dealing with holding down the homefront. Just like I KNOW I don't have it harder than a military wife with children.. and I'm sure children have it harder than wives emotionally.


The title of a wife means a lot more than just being a girlfriend. Sorry if I trampled anyone's feelings.. this is my belief. Marriage is the unity of 2 families. Being a girlfriend is the beginning state to what COULD possibly turn into something more.. a beautiful marriage.You can be madly in love with each other, but the title of "wife" or "Husband" IS supposed to mean something more. Sadly, too many people take that for granted now days.

I'm told that Girlfriend's don't get the support and respect that wive do. But in all actuality.. You can have just as much support, just depends on where you go to get it from.. and what you do to get it. You have access to the same online forums and support groups as military wives do.

As far as respect.. That's going to be anywhere and not just with a military relationship. Girlfriends are not wives and are seen as being expendable. Tough to swallow, but it's the truth. And I know our FRG will allow girlfriends to the meetings. So will many other Command Family support groups.

Wives ARE held to a higher standard than girlfriends, as they should be. Marriages are supposed to be forever, girlfriends are the trials to finding the one you want to spend "Forever" with. That's how it's supposed to go. On top of being married to the one we [wives] love, we are also married to the military and are held responsible for so much more.

I asked on Facebook "Who do you feel has it harder?". I got a couple Girlfriend votes, and many many wives votes. As already stated, I'm on the Wife vote. For the most part, people seem to feel that it's harder on wives because of everything we deal with on the homefront as well as the emotional aspects of it. Some feel that Girlfriends have it harder because for some there is more distance. I have some that said being a girlfriend was easier because the were apart and were use to the distance when deployment came. Etc. If you are my friend on Facebook you can read the responses. I'm not going to post them here as I had originally intended because this post would become a mile long.. and it's getting there already.

To sum it all up..

We all face some of the same issues emotionally. So, who's really one to say one "Title" ups the other.. however in my situation and many others.. Wives feel we have it harder even emotionally.. and then with all the things that marriage bring as well, bring more challenges than that of a military girlfriend. However, being a girlfriend is hard as well. It can be emotionally draining. It is hard. We both have some stress and anxiety. Some deal with it better than others. For one wife it may be easy to deal with, she is use to it.. and for another, it can be agonizing. The same for the emotional standpoint for a girlfriend.

We're on the same team, don't turn this into a cyber fight.

Either way, we are all in this together. We all make sacrifices for the lifestyle we are apart of.

Expressing Yourself -vs- OPSEC

Today, I was directed to a blog post that urked one of my friends to see how I felt about it. Well, the more I sit here and think about it.. the more I let it bother me. Hence the blog.

First off, let me just say that OPSEC is something I follow all the time, as ANYONE associated to a service member should.

After reading the blog post Ah, OPSEC posted on Semper Spouse by "Alpha Wife", I was absolutely disgusted. I posted the link her blog post on Facebook as well. Seems so many agree with me, as they should.. on this subject anyway.

If you didn't click the Links above to read her post, let me just break it down some:

"if I find myself needing to share some of them in order to get something off my chest, I will." [referring to sharing deployment details]

She finds it alright to put her husband and his unit at risk for her to "Get something off her chest". If my husband was in her husband's command.. I would be livid. Hell, this upsets me and he's not connected to my husband!

"So there's a big middle finger to OPSEC, I suppose. They can't silence me and expect me to let everything build up inside me just because they are a bunch of paranoids have set guidelines that they think every spouse should adhere to." 

 Paranoids? Try concerned for the safety of our men and women who are fighting over there this very moment, and any person wearing a uniform serving in the United States Military. They have set these guidelines for a reason. And by YOU being in a relationship with a service member it is YOUR responsibility to adhere to them.


"I have a blog so that I can spill things the way I see it. And if one sneaky terrorists came to MY blog and decided to do any no-good deed to whoever because of details that I shared, then whatever, I'll take responsibility."

By this.. She is saying that she will take responsibility.. Is she saying that she will gladly take responsibility of a wounded service member, or even worse a fallen service member?! Is she the one who will tell a child that her father was killed because she couldn't keep her mouth shut and didn't care that she put so many at risk just so she could express herself? Yes, I'm on a rant. I'm livid.

Is it just me, or is the linked post a very selfish and disgusting post? We would all love to go on and on about when our loved one is coming home, or rant about how we don't want them to leave on "such and such" date. BUT is it really worth it to put your husband in harms way? NO IT'S NOT and if you think it is.. YOU ARE ONE SICK AND TWISTED PERSON!

You can express yourself without posting any information putting the Military at risk. I know this.. I have been doing it for a while now with My brother being in the service and now my husband. Not just me, but the family members of service members I'm friends with in person and Facebook as well.. It doesn't just stop there.. look at all the military significant others who post blogs.. They express themselves and THEY KEEP THEIR LOVED ONES SAFE BY NOT POSTING SENSITIVE INFORMATION!

Seriously, Some people do not need to be allowed to be associated with ANYTHING dealing with the Military. I pray to God that her husband doesn't know she poss the foolish mess that she has been.

Drinking on The Job

I'm blogging about this while a conversation is going on on Facebook... This on is about sending our SO's things we shouldn't when it comes to deployment. Some of you may not agree with me on this, but that is fine. We are all entitled to our own opinions. However,  for those of you who disagree with me.. I'm appalled that you think it's alright. Ok, to the point.  By the way.. this is going to be a long post... so grab some popcorn.

Conversation came up about things you can't send to our boys while they are on Deployment. Things got heated. Especially for me in the end.

Someone brought up how you are not supposed to send tobacco products (dip, cigarettes, etc). Then wives got to talking about ways to sneak them.
Although, I think it's silly we are not supposed to send them these things, they have set these rules for a reason, whether it be stupid or not.. they are there. And if you break the rules and send your husband these things.. You risk getting him in trouble.
This isn't the part I got heated about. Even though I do think it's stupid to send these.

Like tobacco products, ALCOHOL is NOT ALLOWED! This is NO WAY is okay to send! There was a girl talking about how she would hide alcohol in packages to send to her husband while he was away on Deployment. I thought this was completely stupid. However, I did say "I don't think it's good for us to send them anything that breaks the rules. That is my opinion. Is it really worth the risk of getting them in trouble? It's not worth it. My husband dips, and enjoys an occasional drink. I will not send ANYTHING that will get him in trouble. You send him something that is "Not Allowed" and he gets caught.. he's the one who gets in trouble and it will show in his service records.I don't know about other branches, but with the Navy, it will reflect badly on his evals and could cause him to loose out on a promotion." Then things start to get heated.

A few others posted similar to what I said, some being a little more blunt in saying how stupid they thought it was. Then a comment that started the "Battle". (her spelling errors were left untouched)

"im sorry but for what our men do i think they deserve a sip or two or a hit or two off a smokeor a bottle. Sometimes its nice. Think about this. A high stress situation u miss your family your hot your tired and just something to make you forget for a split second what ever it may be wouldnt you want that? I think its unfair to critisize what these women have to done just because it makes their husbands happy for a little shot bottle of whiskey or a pack of smokes. Thats not fair to tell them they are in the wrong. For what our spouses do is hard. "

This rubbed me the wrong way, but I kept my composer as best as possible. My reply:
"It's ok for them to want to relax, but doing something to impair one's judgment while in a war zone, where they are fighting alongside other mean in women.. isn't the way to do it. This is their job.. and if you have a job and you are caught "Drinking on the job" do you not get fired? Yes, you do!
So, why does it make it ok for someone who is "Working".. and working with a Gun alright to drink?"

There were several other comments from other  ladies as well. But I'm not going to post them all.. there are tons. But all on the same side as I am.

Her Reply to me: "@ christina i feel sorry for you." <- That irritated me even more. She also went on to tell me I needed to "chill", That it wasn't a big deal. She went on to say things about how it doesn't affect others.. etc.

My reply: "You feel sorry for me? Because I would like to keep my husband and the men and women he serves with safe?"

Some girls who agree with me posted : "Ok I'm about to get rude........[girl's name]..... SERIOUSLY?? That was over the line. You are simply being given reasons why our opinions is that it is NOT a good idea. I pray to God that my husband is not working with someone who's wife is sending him alcohol because THERE'S A REASON THEY AREN'T SUPPOSED TO HAVE IT. It is a major safety issue for 1. YOUR spouse for 2. everyone around him. Are the risks of sending contraband seriously worth a court martial, dishonorable discharge, or DEATH?"

The girl who thinks it's ok to send it never replied to anyone BUT me. saying
"Worry about you and yours and not what some one else does. Its not your spouse and their spouse isnt deployed with yours. Worry about keeping you and yours safe not some one else. Its like you're trying to tell some one else how to raise thier kid."

A few other comments from others:
"wow acohol ? seriously ? yeah hey lets be irresponsable and send some soldiers who are in war, carry weapons and can get attacked by surprise some alc ! yay ! so when they are drunk ( which btw goes against regulations fyi) they wont be able to be 100% there for when one of those attacks happen , endangering not only themselfs but theire entire .unit....yeah definatly a good idea....btw im case no one noticed i was being sarcastic."

"uve got to understand where we are coming from, what if for some reason their tolerance isnt as high as it was before they left and u send alcohol thinking oh its ok....well think would u want to get a call saying ur soldiers been wounded badly or killed...or even find out ur best friends husband got killed because urs wasnt paying attention to ... have their back...thats why people are getting upset. would u want another wife to send it and urs get killed because they send it to their hubby??? u know u would, anybody would"

"Alcohol & guns are just a bad mixture... thats common sense."

"btw [girl's name who thinks it's ok]....just wondering, since you agree with them drinking while in a very very indeed stressful time, do you agree with them just taking a hit or two of a joint ? same thing right ? illegal just the same while deployed than a joint, so do you agree with a drunk and or high soldier to carry a gun around?"

"i think the cigs thing is ridiculous, yes. but smoking cigs doesn't impair the soldier's actions. alcohol(even a small amount) will. like one person previously stated u wouldnt drink on the job would u? well our soldiers are on the job 24/7 while they are deployed. for those of you who think i'm overreacting, well think what u want. i'm so glad the wives where i am at wouldn't ever think of being so stupid."

"call me overreacting if you want. but my husbands life and therefore my FAMILIES well being relies on every other soldier in his unit. so ONE wife sending booze affects every other wives potentially. im NOT saying you are a bad person. i AM saying you made a poor choice and still apparently dont see the issue with it. how BAD would you feel if the next time you sent booze an incident occurred and your hubby and one of his battle buddies were injured? there is a lifelong guilt trip right there"

Then the girl posted this: (the part that set me off-the highlighted parts)
"sorry drama ladies my hsuabdn isnt a soldier. Mine floats around so yes i do agree if my husband gets a shot or two! It has nothing to do with me i think of my husband first. If he asks for a pack of cigs and i cant send them but they are legal then there is something up. See its different because ... my husband doesnt walkk around with a gun instead he plays with real toys. So of course im not worried!! " 

My Reply: "[girl's name], Now I'm pissed. MY husband is in the Navy as well. He doesn't just "FLOAT AROUND" My husband works his ass off, and My husband carries a gun ON THE SHIP. So yes, YOU could be affecting MY HUSBAND directly by the stupidity of what you are doing." 

Another girl to the "Ok with Alcohol" girl:
"Wow.....so because he's on a boat you think he's safe? Sure they would have liked to have known that during Pearl Harbor. Sure hope that ship never gets called to back up an important mission." 

Me to the girl above: "I agree. And every ship can affect other ships.. their schedule, their ports.. everything." 

 I left it at that. Now going back to that thread. Am I wrong to be heated? What is your opinion on Sending your SO alcohol when you KNOW it's not allowed?

"While You're Away" Contest Winners

First off I want to think all the Ladies who entered:
Another Deployment- my deployment playlist
Life as an MP's Wife-My Top 5 Songs For This Deployment
the Somarribas- while you're away contest
As The Crow Flies- While You're Away
My Life as a Sailor's Princess- Oh Em Gee! Another contest! I want, want, WANT!!! 
 Helen and the Hellcats- While Your Away - Top 5
Confessions of a Sailor's Wife- while youre away

I really enjoyed all of your posts! I hope each of you enter my next contest (unknown when and what).

Congrats to the winners! 
1st place: My Life as a Sailor's Princess
- Custom Blogger template (Header, Background, Button, signature & Coding) OR Custom made Tshirt from CRushGFX
PS Brittany, I want a pic of you in the shirt, because I know that's what you're choosing! lol
-1 photo edit. (You send me a picture and I have fun with it) I use Photoshop CS3 for my edits. Large photo is required and will have to be sent to me via email. [email: CRushGFX@yahoo.com]
-A blogger award from my blog. (one made by me for winning my competition)
-be mentioned on my Blog :)

2nd place: Life as an MP's Wife
- Custom Graphic or Blogger Button
--1 photo edit. (You send me a picture and I have fun with it) I use Photoshop CS3 for my edits. Large photo is required and will have to be sent to me via email. [email: CRushGFX@yahoo.com]
-be mentioned on my Blog :) 


3rd place: Another Deployment
- Custom Graphic or Blogger Button (Tell me what you would like done [email: CRushGFX@yahoo.com]
-be mentioned on my Blog :)


I Highly suggest you check out each of their blogs, and follow them :)
also check out the other contestants as well! :)

"While You're Away" Contest- TIME TO VOTE!

**voting will cease at 1159pm on July 12, 2010

VOTE VOTE VOTE ->

Here are the blogs Up for vote! PLEASE Check them out! 
Another Deployment- my deployment playlist
Life as an MP's Wife-My Top 5 Songs For This Deployment
the Somarribas- while you're away contest
As The Crow Flies- While You're Away
My Life as a Sailor's Princess- Oh Em Gee! Another contest! I want, want, WANT!!! 
 Helen and the Hellcats- While Your Away - Top 5
Confessions of a Sailor's Wife- while youre away

Entry to the Contest is now closed! Thank you to all the lovely ladies who entered! Voting has now started. You can find the Poll to vote in the sidebar to the right. -->

You have about 6 days of time for voting. PLEASE don't cheat. Be mindful of others and only vote once.

Remember the Rules for pimping the contest. Don't remember? Let me post it again ;)

4. You are allowed to pimp out the contest.. but DO NOT post for them to just vote for you. The point of this is to have people read your post, and others as well. Saying, "I entered the "while you're away" contest, please read my post and vote for me", Is OK. Simply saying, "Vote for my blog".. eh, not so much. You should link them to your post and if they choose to vote for you, they can find my blog to vote by the link you post in your blog post. If I see people just saying "Vote for me" and not linking their blog.. I will drop you from the contest. I want this to be a fair vote!

Recap on Prizes:

1st place:
- Custom Blogger template (Header, Background, Button, signature & Coding) OR Custom made Tshirt from CRushGFX
-1 photo edit. (You send me a picture and I have fun with it) I use Photoshop CS3 for my edits. Large photo is required and will have to be sent to me via email. [email: CRushGFX@yahoo.com]
-A blogger award from my blog. (one made by me for winning my competition)
-be mentioned on my Blog :)

2nd place:
- Custom Graphic or Blogger Button
--1 photo edit. (You send me a picture and I have fun with it) I use Photoshop CS3 for my edits. Large photo is required and will have to be sent to me via email. [email: CRushGFX@yahoo.com]
-be mentioned on my Blog :) 


3rd place:
- Custom Graphic or Blogger Button
-be mentioned on my Blog :)


Feel free to leave a comment on what you thought about this blog contest. Also, PLEASE visit the ladies blog and comment their playlist! :D

Happy Voting :)

Rumors

What you don't see with your eyes, don't witness with your mouth.

I hate rumors. They just start unnecessary drama. Who wants that? I surely don't.

Why do people start fictitious rumors, or just say things that aren't true?

Ok, there's a reason I'm asking this. I'll get to it.

Evidently there are "Rumors" going about that I will be the first wife to cheat on my husband when deployment comes. I guess they made a bet? Supposedly this was started by the guys in my husband's old division. My husband heard about it from me, I heard about it from a friend who heard if from an friend whose husband told her and is in my husband's old division. Did I confuse you? If so, reread it... it'll catch on.

I know, and my husband know that it's not true. I guess that is all that truly matters. However, it bother's me because I pride myself in being different. I pride myself in having morals. I pride myself in knowing that I love my husband and he is the only one that I want for the rest of my life. I don't dress slutty, I don't throw myself out there, I don't flirt with other guys.. I really don't talk to other guys except for my brother or an occasional text or phone call from a guy I've known since I was 8-9 years old and is considered my brother.. AND HE'S MARRIED! 

I have been avoiding blogging about it... but deployment is creeping up, and it likes to pop back in my head. It bothers me because I don't know why someone would think that of me. I don't really know why all of a sudden I care what someone thinks about me.. This is just something that really just hurt my feelings. I think it's because some of the guys that supposedly said it.. or "Bet" that I'd be the one to cheat are supposed to be my husband's friends and guys that we have hungout with together, and I considered them my friends as well. 

It will not happen. I will prove all you bastards wrong. I love my husband. I love our Marriage and everything we have going for our future. 

It's just that.. a petty high school rumor. For all I know, it could be nothing. Just someone starting more high school drama.

I feel better now.

Power of Attorney VS Business Ass Holes

As stated in my last post, this blog is about my furniture shopping experience... more so me using my 'power of attorney' and what happened at 1 furniture store.

Thursday I had went to nearly 7 furniture stores looking for what I want. I'd find a couch I like, but no luck with a coffee table that would look good with it. Started to stress a little, but had to remind myself that there was not immediate rush and I would find one.

The last store we went to Robert's Furniture store, which is just a small place in Hampton. Found the PERFECT couch and Loveseat. I knew of one more place I wanted to look and compare prices before I made the commitment. So, the next day I went to the store called The Dump. Found a lot I liked and at a good price. I like the Couch and Loveseat better at Robert's Furniture, but The Dump was cheaper, so I made my decision to go with the cheaper one that I liked.

I was using my Power of Attorney to put the purchase in my husbands name. I know exactly what I can and can't do with my POA. It's not the standard Military POA, I have 2 separate ones that were written up for me and my husband as a wedding gift. I have complete control over e.v.e.r.y.t.h.i.n.g. (muahahahaha). All joking aside, I'm technically jobless, so there's no way I would get approved (no one considers my tshirt business a job lol). Well, the hubs has almost no credit (another reason it's going in his name.. build his credit little by little). Because he is practically credit-less.. we, shall I say HE didn't get approved. next option.. cross my finger's for Roberts, and if not there Get the pricier couch I LOVED at Grands.. This is the part where I about lost my temper. Wait for it.. Ok, ya ready? (Several people got irritated when I told this to them. Not at me..  but at the.. well, you'll read for yourself)

I walked in Robert's and a guy asked me what I was looking for. I said, "If you can get my husband approved {pointing to the POA}, I'll be buying that Couch and Loveseat in the back.". He kind of gave and uneasy grin. Greeeaaat. He's going to tell me they won't accept the Power of Attorney. Of course he said he didn't think he could do anything with it. He called his finance company they work with.. and it was confirmed. Won't accept it. They are suppose to accept POAs, but not "required" to. No biggie, I can take my business elsewhere. Their loss. Obviously, this wasn't got my blood boiling.

I was curious. I asked the man why they wouldn't accept it. It is a legal document. CLEARLY stating I have control to open accounts, close them.. everything.. including buying a house all in my Husband's name... and I'm being told I can't use it for a couch,. So, OF COURSE I'm curious as to their reasoning. This is where I get pissed. He said, "The reason we don't and most places won't accept them is because of 'Jodys'. Military wives walk up in here with their boyfriend while their husband is deployed and buy a houseful of furniture, then when the husband comes home.. he comes home to no wife, and she has a houseful of furniture all in his name.". The way he said it.. The way he looked at me when he was saying it. KNOWING I am a Military wife... It was as if he was insinuating I was one of them, and that every military wife was like that.

I had to tell myself be the better person. You're bigger than this, don't let this man get to you. He got to me, but I forced myself to smile and said, "Well, good thing all military wives aren't how you perceive them. Have a good day!", I walked out and got in my car. Wasn't going to let this guy ruin my day. I went to Grands and bought 2 rooms of furniture, in my husband's name, not one problem with my POA. And the lady that works with legal there told me that they are required to accept them and that man was very wrong in not accepting it.

I got a GREAT deal at Grands.. and I'm 100% happy with my purchase.
So screw you Manager guy at Robert's Furniture!

Todays Color Alert: RED, WHITE and BLUE

Will Finish my blog tonight and reply to comments. But for now, this is more important. Remember these pictures while you celebrate this weekend for Memorial Day:

No need for words, these images say enough.

Just Something to think about this weekend.

Military Spouse FREEBIE- MyCaa Books

I am not sure how many of you are familiar with MyCaa (Military One Source), but I'm going to post this anyways because I know there are several people who don't know about this. I had 4 friends email me this week alone to ask about it, so by posting this, I'm sure that at-least one person will learn something new.

First off, let me start off by saying I love MyCaa. And not just because of the $6,000 spouse grant you can get for schooling.

If you like to read, you're going to love this.


Did you know that MyCaa gives away 10 books a year of your choice (from the options they have) to military spouses every year? Yes, 10 free (even shipping!!) books every year!

It's quite awesome.

The books change regularly, Sometimes they may not have a lot that you are really interested in, but the next week they will have TONS. I have already had 6 or 7 sent to me this year. Mostly military related, but not always. They have a Fiction and Nonfiction section. in the Nonfiction they have a lot of self help books. Like things for stress, deployments, PTSD, money management, etc. (I recently got one, "What to expect when you're pregnant".. no, not pregnant.. I'll blog about that later.).

A few ladies and I were chatting about books the other day, and I was asked for some recommendations, I gave a few suggestions and then remembered MyCaa. Thought it would be a good idea to share with all of you. None of these ladies knew about it, so I was happy to help.

You do have to have an account with MyCaa. The website made me make a separate account from the spouse grant portion. If you're just searching the site for the free books, it's a pain to find and you may actually never find them. I honestly cannot remember how I got to them. I've known about it for almost 2 years now. {side note.. Wow, I've been married almost 2 years!! :D <- big cheesey smile}. So, I will also share links to the Fiction and Nonfiction books.

Remember, the book list will change often, so I don't suggest getting all 10 at once and having to wait until the next calendar year to get more... unless you see 10 you absolutely want. I know right now, Chicken Soup for the Military Wives Soul is currently on there. That's a must read in my opinion!

Ok, now for the links:

For fiction books:
https://www.militaryonesource.com/MOS/FindInformation/Category/Topic/Issue.aspx?IssueID=1288&TopicID=482&MaterialTypeGroupIDOpened=-1
(Like I stated earlier, they don't tend to have as many fiction books)

For Nonfiction books:
https://www.militaryonesource.com/MOS/FindInformation/Category/Topic/Issue.aspx?IssueID=1289&TopicID=482&MaterialTypeGroupIDOpened=-1


Ok, there's my post for today. :) Hope someone learned something new, and is as excited as I was when I first found them!

You're so Vain, I bet you think this blog is about you!

 (blog title change thanks to the ones who commented and got it stuck in my head! haha)

First off, I was to thank everyone for commenting on my blogs. I love writing my blogs, and it's one of those things.. if you don't like what I have to say.. No one is forcing you to read it.

I know you're sitting there wondering "What the heck are you getting at?!" So I'll get to it.

I write about my own feelings, my own experiences, my own beliefs and Military life as a Navy wife. When I blog, I am not blogging about anyone. I will blog about situations I see (usually lots of the same situations until it builds up and triggers a blog), and I blog about my beliefs. Like my last blog, things I see happening triggered me to write on my beliefs. My belief being that  No one, military wife or not, should put their personal confrontations with their husband out there for the world to see on Social Networking sites, this include harsh name calling. This is just my belief and everyone has their own beliefs. You have the option to agree with me. And you don't have to agree with me in the comments you send. We were given something called "Free will", meaning you are your own person. I like hearing other's take on things, even if it means disagreeing with me.

Ok, that is still not the main point of this. Evidently {exaggerated), 2 of my blogs are a little too "touchy". My blogs "Making Problems Public Domain" and "Blame Yourself", have sparked a little unwanted drama. And no, it's not here on Blogger. Someone, somehow got it in their head that both blogs were about them. When in all actuality, my blogs are about noone. I take that back.. there are a few about me and my husband, so Technically they are about MY LIFE. Repeat: My Blogs are about MY feelings, My experiences, My >beliefs< and being a Navy wife. Nothing else.

So, if anyone thinks anything I write is about you.. well, then maybe you have some personal guilt that ties you in with what I post about. BUT it WAS NOT WRITTEN ABOUT YOU. YOU made it about yourself. (Guess that makes you selfish?).

And to end this, this post was to clear up any "Confusion" if there was someone else out there who is hellbent over this being about them. Once again, this isn't about you.

End rant.

Making Problems Public Domain

I have several "Blogs" going on in my head. Eventually I'll get them all out. Every time I got to type about something.. somehting else pops up that I feel like writing about even more.

The blog I'm writing now, I wasn't going to blog about it... But I read This post (linked) by Navy Doll  and after commenting her blog, I couldn't resist. It was a situation both she and I witnessed on Facebook this evening that I totally disagree with. I would like to know what others think about it as well.

There was a Navy Fiance that posted a vulgar status update toward her fiance. By vulgar.. I'm not meaning sexually or anything good. Evidently they were having a little spat and she decided to air out their "Dirty Laundry" (as Navy Doll put it) on Facebook for the world to see.

And of course, when you update your status.. You welcome comments. If you don't want someone to comment your status or "like" your status.. Why do you post it?

Everyone started posting comments on what she needed to do.. etc. etc. You call someone a "F***ing A**" of course someone's going to say "leave him".. someone's going to say "why are you with him".. blah blah.

I simply posted that this struggle they were going through didn't need to be up to the decision of anyone but her and her Sailor. It's their problem, and basically by posting it on a social media site is just fueling the fire. She needed to be the one to make the decision based on what she wanted and what was best for her.

After I posted my comment, I noticed a comment before mine that I must have skipped over. A girl posted something similar to "They are all a**es" and went on to say "The wives are the 'Power of the Navy'" some BS like that. I wanted to snap, but bit my tongue. Evidently I wasn't the only one who was offended. A couple other girls lashed out. One girl posted what I was thinking. Went something like: "To [person posted the BS comment], if you seriously think that, then what the hell is my husband and so many others out there while were here, since we're the 'Power of the Navy'".

Just out of curiosity, Why do people Post about things that should really be kept Personal? Every couple has problems at some point. Do you honestly think that by making it public record that you are going to make the Situation any better? Or when you are having a hard time with your SO you change your relationship status to "It's Complicated". Are you just wanting attention?

I could continue on with this blog, but it would turn into a repeat of a blog I wrote back in January called Blame Yourself. By the way, I wrote that the same week I opened my blog on Facebook. I caught hell for it, but all the girls that got their panties in a wad over it, were some of the girls I had in mind as I was writing it.

Complaint Department, Take a Number

Yesterday I got Really irritated. Okay, honestly I was beyond irritated. I was on the verge of being irate! Ha, just realized.. I have 2 blogs (this being the 2nd) where I am CLEARLY on a rant.. and they both deal with Facebook. Why am I on that site again?

Ok, so it wasn't Facebook directly, but it petty girls on Facebook. I just read Mrs. Gambizzle's Post and this blog is related to hers. We're on the same rant.. and about the same person. Well, actually mine's more than just that person, but that person triggered my reaction. Am I rambling? pssh.

My husband's ship recently left for another workup. This one is one of the long stretches. I decide to get on Facebook yesterday morning, ya know.. to kinda put me in a good mood and talk to some of my military wife friends. Just wanted some casual conversation and maybe make some plans. What do I see as soon as I get on there? A girl posting "I don't need to see people whining and bitching about their guys being gone" She kinda rambled on and mentioned that she had her own problems that "are NOT military related". She has also posted that people need to "Suck it up and get over it. You signed up for this". She's always such a negative person and always Complaining about people "Complaining". Another girl posted something like "So what, your husband's gone.. get over it.".. *raises eyebrow, gritting teeth*

Ok, I agree with the whole "you signed up for this, suck it up" thing. BUT in a totally different sense than she did. I DID sign up for this life when I married my husband. I "Suck it up" when I have a day that the Navy changes plans or something goes wrong, and I don't COMPLAIN. That's how I look at it. But, I IN NO WAY signed up to NOT miss him. No one did.

I kinda lashed out. I have yet to post that I miss my husband, but that doesn't mean I don't miss him, because I do.. Very much so. I think it's normal to miss your husband.. and honestly, If you don't... Something is very wrong with you or your relationship. Just my thoughts. Anyway, back to the point.. I lashed out. I posted:

"gets annoyed when girls "Complain" about other's who post and complain about their men being gone. Do you realize you are "Complaining" more? Seriously. Shut up. Atleast some of us miss our boys."

I went on to say "I do not think posting that missing your SO while he is gone is complaining. I would HOPE that everyone will miss their significant other while they are away.
*OPSEC violations are a different story*Besides that.. Why not be positive? Negative status updates can effect others mood. Be encouraging and be there for the person who is having a hard time with their loved one gone. Some people actually like having their husband around."

That status update ended up being a bit of a popular post. Several girls thought the same thing I did, but didn't say it. Some of them needed to hear, "It's ok, you're allowed to miss him".. encouragement. It's good for everyone. I like being a positive person. I actually pride myself in knowing I try not to bring negativity in my life (although, sometimes.. it happens.).

The girl who triggered my post ended up deleting her status. I assume that maybe I wasn't the only one who said something. I considered deleting her, but I would like to be able to get along with all "Big E" wives, although.. is that really possible? The reason I want to get along with all possible is because there will be a couple positions on the FRG board opening soon. The president of the FRG said I would be a great person to be on it. The FRG leader's are by vote. So, I need want to get along with everyone.

 So there.. That is my Rant. Weewh... I feel better. ha. 

Do you agree? Or did I over react?

50 followers = Competition time! (a little late!)

 CONTEST HAS COME TO AN END!!

Thank you to everyone who entered! I cannot wait to read every one of your posts! I never imagined so many people would get involved!

You can find a list of the entries at the bottom of this blog. 

Voting will begin shortly :)

I've decided to run a competition. Something simple. The winner will be up to a vote from my followers :). So everyone can be involved!

I wanted to do this when I hit 50 followers, but chaos happened in Tennessee and it was all I could think about. Was incredibly worried about my friends and family there. Now I'm at more than 70 followers, and am a little behind! Yikes! I had planned to do another competition when I reached 100 followers, but since I'm already creeping up on it.. it may be pushed off to 150, or I might do another small competition.

Since it's Military Spouse Appreciation Month, I want it to be about YOU!

For my Blogger Competition, here are the rules:
 1. I want you to post a blog. Yes, there's a catch.
You have to write about what being a military wife/ SO and what it means to you.

 2. Link my blog/ this competition in your post.

 3. Tell me the link to your blog! Post it as a comment in this blog post. (I need it for the voting ;) !) I will update this blog with Links to everyone's posts.

 4. Deadline is May 11 (11:59pm eastern time) and voting will start May 12 and end May 14 at 11:59pm eastern time. Voting will be as a poll that I will post in my blog. If anyone cheats and I find out, you will be disqualified.

Oh, almost forgot! PrIzEs! Who-Hoo!!
For now, the prizes are not physical. But In my opinion, and several others.. they are just as great!
Oh.. and I almost forgot.. there's a 1st, 2nd and 3rd place prize! Awesome right? Totally. ha

Will receive a blogger award from my blog. (one made by me for winning my competition)

2 photo edits. (You send me a picture and I have fun with it) I use Photoshop CS3 for my edits. Large photos are required and will have to be sent to me via email.

Custom made Graphic

A blogger button for your blog.

and be mentioned on my Blog :)

_____________________________________

Will receive 1 photo edit. (You send me a picture and I have fun with it) I use Photoshop CS3 for my edits. Large photos are required and will have to be sent to me via email.

A blogger button for your blog

And be mentioned on my blog!

_____________________________________

Will receive a blogger button

And be mentioned on my blog!

I know it's not much, but it's something fun. :)




CURRENT CONTEST ENTRIES:
Chantal's Blog

My explosive life... as an EOD tech's wife

The Life Of An ET's Wife

My Life as a Sailors Princess

Riding the Roller Coaster

Diary of a Navy WIfe

Dear Afghanistan, Be gentle on him

Deployment (again)

ACU's, Stilettos Shoes, and Pretty Pink Tutus

G.I. Joe's Wife

Goodnight Moon

Reflections of a Navy Wife

Mrs. Muffins

The Resors

Life and Times of a Displaced Jersey Girl

Navy Doll

The Voigt Story

Bellajo Photography

A Hapa Girl and her Hapa Family!

Lucky Dimes and Dog Tags

Confessions of a Sailor's Wife

Engaged to the Navy

Head in the game. Heart in the sand.


^^ That's all the Entries! Wowza! :D
I'm really enjoying your posts ladies! Setting up the Voting now! :D

Ship is on the Move

Lately there have been a lot of ins and outs with my hubby's ship. Aren't workups just fun?! {sarcasm, if you didn't get it.)

The USS Enterprise being pushed into the pier April 18, '10

So far, it hasn't been all that bad. The first time they went out for a week was a little rough. My husband's email had not been set up on the ship and obviously cellphones are prohibited (not like that would have mattered.. they are in a solid steel cage more than 50 miles out from land!).. so there was no contact. Thank God for other military wives who are always there. Several nights I stayed up chatting with other Enterprise wives until after 2 in the morning. There is truly no friendship that compares to the friends I have made in the almost 2 years my husband has been in the service. When he came home after that first workup.. I had a huge sense of pride and even more support for my husband. Watching that ship pull in, I smiled and I felt like like I had not seen my husband in months.

Flag at Half Mast for fallen Soldier

I know what you're thinking.. it was just a week! Well, this was our first, both mine and my husband's, first "workup", and the USS Enterprise's first outing in 2 years! So yeah, it's somewhat of a big deal! They got the old clunker running again! I felt so proud, and felt so Happy. Not happy that my husband will be away so much, but happy because this is what he likes doing. This is his career. Happy because my husband is starting to feel like he is going to make a difference and serve his Country. After all, that is why he joined the Military. He wanted to be apart of something bigger than himself and serve his country. And I support him and love him.

They have been in and out all month it seems. Started off with a fast cruise in the shipyards, to getting out and finally getting to play in the water a couple times. The guys are exhausted right now.  My husband just got a day off after more than 3 weeks of not having a day off. Hoping to catch up on some much wanted time with him before he leaves again.

 Met up with several girls to watch the boat pull in. We were there for 5 hours! (hence the reason my hair looked horrible!) But in the end, the wait, the bad hair, and having to pee so bad it hurt.. it was totally worth it.

My husband said he actually had fun out there. He said he worked his but off, but for some reason... he liked it. Which is GREAT because we have 18 more years of this. ;)

I hope you enjoyed the few pics I posted from the ones I took from the day they moved back to Norfolk. Everyone on Facebook seems to enjoy them. So, I figured you might too! :)

"It is well to read everything of something, and something of everything."

"It is well to read everything of something,
and something of everything."
~ Lord Henry P. Brougham ~

I have started somewhat of a collection of books.. Military Wife books. I am not much of a book reader. Just one of those things I typically get "into". But every since the start of my "Journey" as a Navy Wife, I have found something I get lost in reading. I have more than 10 books at the moment.. and more on the way. My own personal library, I guess you can say.

I have been asked several times what Military Wife books I recommend. I never thought to blog about it, but would it not be easier to blog about it and refer people to my blog to read what I think about the books I have? I think so. So, today, I am going to blog about my "Military Wife Library" (and maybe some that I plan to get). -I will link the title of the book to amazon.com where you can read more reviews and purchase the book if you would like.
 

The first Military Wife book I ever picked up was SOLO-OPS by Hilary Martin. I love the way this book is written. Hilary writes about her personal experiences allowing the reader to relate more to her point of view. She covers so much in her book from becoming a Military wife to deployment, to entering the civilian world again. She also makes it clear to keep an open mind and laugh at the situations your faced with, the importance of Humor with the Military. If a "SOLO-OPS" volume 2 was to be released, I would definitely be one of the first to purchase it. Also check out the forum SOLO-OPS. I met some great ladies when I was active in the forum. I'm involved with so many groups and forums now.. it's hard to keep up with all of them now.
 

MARRIED TO THE MILITARY by Meredith Leyva is the second military wife book I read. For the most part, I really enjoyed this book, and will recommend it. However, I did feel like it was a big advertisement for her website/ Forum CinC House. I learned quite a few things when reading this. For a New military wife, I think this book is a great read. If you are someone who has been "Married to the Military" for a little time now, you might get bored or find that it was all that helpful. Overall.. The book is an A+ read, if you're curious.. check it out. Be sure to check out the forum as well. I still visit the forum regularly. I have learned a lot from these ladies. And if you read some of the reviews on this book.. the forum isn't full of "Snotty, racist women". Everyone has been super nice and helpful to everyone I have seen on there.
 

The book I would recommend more than any other is Chicken Soup for the Military Wife's Soul. Full of encouraging stories, this book is Perfect for anyone who is in love with a Service member. Be sure to have a box of Tissue handy, as these stories will touch your heart! This book is a great reminder of why our Men do what they do and that we are not alone on this journey. This book is perfect to turn to when you are struggling with military life, deployments and more. I highly suggest this read, definitely a 5 star read.

If you can overlook a large abundance of grammatical and punctuation errors.. the book Military Wives 101  by Tynisa Gaines is an okay read. When I bought this book I didn't read anything about it. I judged it by the title and assumed it was a "Guide" to life as a military wife... little did I know it was a story. If you let this book determine what you think about military life, you will have an obscured view of what it really is and can be. For some reason I wanted to finish the book and did so. Something kept drawing me in, I was curious as to what would happen. If you decide to get this.. I wouldn't suggest paying more than $5 (including shipping!) for this book.
 

Medals Above My Heart is a quick read. If you are a religious person, this is a good little devotional for you. If you are not a spiritual person, this book may seem a little boring to you. The book is only 125 pages long and could easily be read in 1 day.
 

Navy Spouse's Guide (second edition) by Laura Hall Stavridis taught me quite a bit. However, it seems a bit dated. But I do believe it is a good read for all Navy wives, especially if you don't know much about the Navy.
 

A book I always keep handy is Today's Military Wife 5th Edition. From the break down of the LES to Deployments and Sponsoring a Family. This book has it all. Although it seemed a little "Text book" like for me. I just Read the chapters as I needed them or wanted them. There are newer versions available that I plan to get eventually.
 

If you are looking for something to make you smile, laugh and keep you wanting more.. I suggest Confessions of a Military Wife by Mollie Gross. I really hope Mollie writes another book. Mollie tells it how it is, and in the most hilarious way possible. She's extremely relateable too! I found myself thinking several times that I had been through similar situations. If you have deployment blues.. pick up a copy. "Laughter is the best medicine".
 

Help! I'm a Military Spouse (second edition) by Kathie Hightower & Holly Scherer did something that most military Spouse writers didn't.. they included Male military Spouse, not directly, but it's not a military "Wives" book. Kathie and Holly make a good combo, mixing seriousness and humor. The book is based on a workshop.. I wonder if they still offer it? I think I just might look that up later!
 

Another one of my personal favorites is The Homefront Club by Jacey Eckhart. She was an Airforce brat who ended up Marrying a Sailor. I found myself giggling a few times, smiling and really thinking about things with this book. I highly recommend it. I also recommend her audio CD These Boots, which you can get for free on Military One Source (title is linked).

A recent book I bought and am working my way through is Going Overboard by Sarah Smiley. So far I don't have an opinion on it, but I'm only a few pages in. She's honest, holds nothing back.. and It reads like a story. (I'll update this when I finish)

The last book that I currently own is The Long Road Home by Martha Raddatz. I have a feeling this is going to be a hard read. It's supposed to show some incite to what our men and women in uniform go through. I'm an emotional pansie.. We'll see how this goes. (Update will come when I finish the book).

This ends my list of books I currently have (not mentioning all the one's of my hubby's that I read too!).

I also plan to get:

Separated by Duty, United in Love

365 Deployment Days

Faith Deployed

Hope for the Home Front

Spouses Also Serve

The Complete Idiot's Guide to Life as a Military Spouse

Heroes at Home

I Love a Man in Uniform 

And that is the short list. I hope someone enjoyed this drawn out post. I will continue to update it as I get and read more books. I would also like to hear your feedback about books I have posted.. both the one's I have read and have yet to read.