When we first join the military it may be exciting to travel the world and experience new cultures and countries. As we grow and build a family our desire to remain close to those back home becomes greater. Sometimes it can become financially impossible to travel home to see your loved ones. Sometimes it may be hard for them to visit us as well. So we adapt to a new way of life to help us cope in times we need our family most. 

We make our own families. Our neighbor’s become our brothers and sisters, our dear life long friends, and sometimes an elder to guide us. Sometimes it is the lady at the commissary who stopped what she was doing to help wrangle your child who wondered just a bit to far. The man at the pharmacy who gave up his seat so you could sit down. The young mother with the “I have sooo been there” face whom catches your eyes during your 3 year old’s public melt down. These are our family… We didn’t choose them but we they are always there for us. We need to turn to our neighbors more often and say Hi.

I have a military sister just a few blocks away. We catch up a few times a week to make sure the other one is sane. We watch each others children if needed and in the event of an emergency we drop everything and run to each others side. My military “elder” works near by. He always lends his advice with or without me asking. Most of the time the things he says can brighten any mood. If he doesn’t have the answers I seek he knows who to ask and where to go.

I have a little brother too. He lives off base. He stops by on occasion for a hot meal, advice or just to socialize. This is my Military family! I would love for you to share yours.

~Amanda, Sygnet Creations