December is a lot of things. It’s a season of happiness, laughter, family, present buying, baking, cold weather, reflection, regrowth and so many other things that sometimes it feels like it’s over in the blink of an eye. Before you let the magic of this season flash before your eyes, I suggest you take a moment to reflect on the last year and remember all the things you’re grateful for this December. After all, the most wonderful time of year only comes once a year, so try to slow down, reflect on the beauty of the season and enjoy it. Here are a few things myself and other military spouses are thankful for this season:
I’m thankful that my husband is on shore duty for the next few years. It feels like a novelty to actually see him every day and develop our regular married life routines together. I appreciate it because I know it’s short lived. I’m also incredibly grateful to have friends that make an effort to contact me and keep me included in their daily lives even though I no longer live near them. – Ashley F.
“That my spouse is home for the holidays! We have spent many holidays apart.” – Michelle A.
“For friends that have become family.” – Rebecca A.
“I am thankful for finding joy in a duty station I thought I’d hate!! And I’m thankful for my kittens!” – Amy B.
“That this is my last holiday spent living 500 miles away from my husband!” – Rachel G.
“I am thankful for the family and friends who have stood beside me for everything that I have been through this year. I have lost 5 friends/family members, hubby retired from the navy, and now we are PCSing our final time right at the holidays. It has been a whirlwind of emotion and the ability to have my mil family by my side has been one of the only things to hold me together.” – Mindy B.
“A spouse who is finally home and can shovel snow off of my driveway.” – Kiera D.
“A spouse that is finally home whom can throw away the dead mouse in the mouse trap in my basement. (It’s been patiently waiting for 2 weeks).” – Morgan S.
“I’m really thankful for Facebook! Otherwise I would not be able to stay in contact and video chat with so many people back stateside!” – Kelli C.
“This year, rather than being deployed, my husband is home changing diapers. I’m grateful to witness him making memories with our children. Memories that will carry him through next year, when we know he will again be far from home on Christmas.” – Sara W.
