The Waiting Warriors Podcast: Recent Episodes
Michelle Bowler
Empowering Military Spouses with Financial Education: A Comprehensive Guide
This episode of the Waiting Warriors Podcast features Michelle Bowler and guest Lizanne Lightfoot, the seasoned spouse and representative of Go VA, discussing the unique financial challenges and opportunities military families face.
The conversation covers the importance of budgeting, how to effectively manage finances despite the unpredictable military life, and introduces Go VA's digital platform, The Edge, designed to empower military couples through free, comprehensive financial education.
From assessing money personalities to setting financial goals and utilizing neutral tools for budgeting and planning, this episode provides invaluable insights and practical advice for military spouses seeking financial stability and growth.
Check out THE EDGE: https://mygova.com/
Get more Waiting Warriors content and resources: https://www.instagram.com/thewaitingwarriors/
TIMESTAMPS
00:00 Introduction to Financial Empowerment for Military Spouses
01:41 Meet the Expert: Lizanne Lightfoot, The Seasoned Spouse
03:18 The Unique Financial Challenges of Military Life
07:31 Practical Tips for Budgeting and Financial Planning For Military Spouses
13:23 Leveraging Tools for Financial Education and Empowerment During Deployments and PCSing
27:03 Setting Financial Goals and Building a Strong Partnership as a Military Couple
36:46 Conclusion: Empowerment For Military Couples Through Education
In this episode of The Waiting Warriors Podcast, host Michelle Bowler speaks with guest Madison Greene about navigating the challenges of being a new military spouse facing a loved one's deployment for the first time.
These military spouses explore feelings of being overwhelmed and give advice on finding joy and purpose during such times. The conversation covers practical advice, the importance of preparation, utilizing resources like the Deployment Readiness Coordinators (DRC), and fostering community connections.
Additionally, they touch on mindset and perspective as key to thriving during deployment, rather than merely surviving.
*Thank you to this episode's sponsor: National University! Check out their military spouse scholarship and how they can help you get your degree with flexible schedules and classes adaptable to the military spouse lifestyle! https://glnk.io/p987m/thewaitingwarriors
Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction to the Podcast - A Podcast For Military Spouses, Fiances, and Girlfriends
00:39 Welcome to The Waiting Warriors Podcast
01:28 Thriving During Your First Deployment
02:32 Understanding the Concept of Thriving As A Military Spouse
05:47 Experiences from a First Deployment
07:03 The Importance of Staying Engaged and Active In The Military Community
09:46 The Power of Mindset and Intentionality
11:45 The Value of Community and Support For Military Spouses
14:05 The Role of Preparation and Empowerment For A Successful Deployment
25:50 The Impact of Mindset on Thriving
29:37 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
30:02 Sponsor Message: National University
In this podcast episode from Waiting Warriors, host Michelle Bowler engages in an insightful discussion with guest Amanda Scott, a military spouse, on the challenges and possibilities of maintaining one's career amidst the unpredictable and hectic TDY schedule. Michelle and Amanda offer actionable advice on building resilience, leveraging opportunities like remote work, and remaining proactive to ensure that careers are not solely dictated by military life. Amanda also discusses her personal experiences, underscoring the importance of mindset, openness with superiors, flexibility, and planning ahead to ensure career progress.
Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction to the Waiting Warriors Podcast
00:39 Guest Introduction: Amanda Scott
01:01 Understanding the Impact of TDYs on Military Spouses
01:26 Amanda's Career Journey and the Role of RTX
02:10 The Challenges of Maintaining a Career Amidst TDYs
04:17 Defining 'Career' and 'Maintaining' in the Context of Military Life
05:07 Amanda's Personal Experience with Career Progression and Military Impact
11:43 Strategies for Maintaining a Career During TDYs
17:31 Examples of Workplace Accommodations for Military Spouses
20:23 Workplace Accommodations for Military Spouses
20:53 Understanding FMLA and Its Benefits
22:33 The Importance of Having a Plan
25:16 Advocacy and Communication in the Workplace
30:24 Overcoming Challenges and Thriving in Your Career
36:12 Connecting with Resources for Career-Minded Military Spouses
37:47 Amanda's Key To Thriving
In this episode of The Waiting Warriors Podcast, host Michelle Bowler interviews Tiffany Kelly, a military spouse of 23 years with vast experience in juggling career, parenting, and the ins and outs of military life. The conversation revolves around the need to openly communicate the challenges that come along with deployments, reintegration, and shifting family dynamics. They delve into the importance of networking and connections, their experiences as military spouses, and how seeking compassion rather than understanding can lead to more supportive communities. Tiffany encourages listeners to find meaningful connections away from the internet and shares her experiences in various supportive spaces, like spouses' clubs. Additionally, a discussion on misconceptions related to rank and the need to embrace vulnerability within the military community is shared.
Connect with Tiffany:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/tiffany-joe-kelley-427a16210/
https://www.facebook.com/tifferjoe
Get more Waiting Warrrios Content:
https://www.facebook.com/thewaitingwarriors
https://www.instagram.com/thewaitingwarriors/
Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction to The Waiting Warriors Podcast
00:40 Guest Introduction: Tiffany Kelly
01:04 The Reality of Military Life: Admitting the Hardships
02:00 Tiffany's Personal Journey and Challenges
04:50 The Importance of Open Communication and Support
06:11 The Struggles of Being a Military Spouse
08:55 The Misconception of 'Knowing What You Signed Up For'
15:56 The Need for Compassion and Understanding
18:43 The Impact of Military Life on Family
22:00 Advice for Voicing Concerns and Struggles
24:43 The Power of Human Connection Over Online Interactions
26:20 Finding Resources and Support Within Your Community
26:58 The Impact of Online Criticism and the Importance of Real-Life Interactions
28:13 The Importance of In-Person Communication and Compassion
29:57 The Struggles of Military Spouses and the Need for Understanding
34:24 The Challenges of Reintegration After Deployment
36:46 The Role of Senior Spouses in Advocacy and Support
40:57 The Importance of Getting Out and Connecting with Others
46:29 The Power of Compassion and Connection in the Military Spouse Community
48:19 Conclusion: Thriving as a Military Spouse Through Connection and Compassion
n this episode of The Waiting Warriors Podcast with host Michelle Bowler, special guest Liz talks about effectively managing personal and professional goals while being a military spouse during deployment and training seasons. Liz shares tips to establish boundaries, set and achieve goals, and get comfortable with the quiet. The conversation delves into topics of developing communication and dealing with challenges. The Podcast discusses striving for balance, keeping open channels of communication, maintaining healthy family dynamics, and being kind to yourself during this often-difficult military lifestyle. Connect with Liz: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethwmarion/ https://libyworks.podia.com/ Connect with The Waiting Warriors: https://www.instagram.com/thewaitingwarriors/ 00:00 Introduction and Overview 00:50 Welcome to the Waiting Warriors Podcast 01:48 Interview with Liz: Balancing Personal and Professional Goals 02:08 The Challenges of Being a Military Spouse 04:50 Liz's Journey as a Military Spouse and Business Owner 06:53 Tactical Advice for Balancing Work and Life 12:23 The Importance of Reframing and Redefining Success 14:34 Dealing with Unexpected Challenges 16:25 The Power of Gratitude and Open Communication 19:26 Striving for a Happy and Peaceful Retirement 22:32 Us Versus the Problem: A Mindset for Conflict Resolution 24:08 Embracing the Hardships 24:22 Making the Most of Difficult Situations 24:43 Experiences in 29 Palms 26:17 Setting and Managing Professional Goals 28:46 Balancing Work and Personal Life 30:05 Facing Loneliness and Embracing Stillness 31:19 Managing Professional Life During Deployment 34:08 Maintaining Boundaries and Building Resilience 37:25 Balancing Travel and Family Life 41:16 Key to Thriving: Embracing Individual Days 43:10 Connecting with Liz 43:39 Closing Remarks and Sponsor Message
Join host Michelle Bowler in this podcast episode as she interviews Cori Weathers, a military spouse, who provides firsthand knowledge and clinical perspective on the complexities and emotions tied to a military family's or couple's reintegration phase. Discover coping strategies, maintaining a strong relationship during deployments, and building resilience. Explore the new book, Military Culture Shift, for insights on effectively navigating the evolving military spouse culture. Tune in for practical advice to adapt to change and build a stronger and more resilient military family and spouse life.
00:00 Introduction: The Challenges of Military Family Reintegration
00:29 Interview with Cori Weathers: Expert Insights on Military Family Reintegration
01:21 The Waiting Warriors Podcast: A Platform for Military Spouses
02:19 Guest Introduction: Cori Weathers, Military Spouse and Mental Health Clinician
03:06 Cori's Personal Journey and Career Evolution
05:11 The Importance of Connection and Understanding in Military Spouse Life
07:24 Reintegration Challenges: Feeling Broken and Alone
13:41 The Process of Change and Growth During Deployment
17:30 Reintegration Strategies: Building a New Normal
25:20 Understanding the Importance of Shared Values in Relationships
26:21 The Power of Shared Experiences and Playfulness in Reconnection
27:32 The Struggles of Reintegration and the Role of Shared Vulnerability
28:39 Exploring Non-traditional Date Night Ideas
32:12 The Importance of Vulnerability and Confidence in a Marriage
36:46 Introducing 'Military Culture Shift': A Book for Understanding Military Life
42:53 The Importance of Positive Leadership and Care in the Military Community
45:02 The Impact of Congressional Funding on Military Families
46:49 Closing Thoughts: Spreading Goodness and Light
Get Corie's Book "Military Culture Shift" (*affiliate link): https://amzn.to/3vV4UXA.
Get Corie's Book "Sacred Spaces" (*Affiliate link): https://amzn.to/3UebMtA
Connect and get more Waiting Warriors Content on www.Instagram.com/TheWaitingWarriors or TheWaitingWarriors.com
James' Episode: Navigating Grief and Lessons Learned (Part 2) In this heartfelt episode titled 'Battling Loss Together: Lessons Learned And Things That Helped After A Stillbirth ', Austin and Michelle Bowler open up about coping with their grief after a tragic loss. They candidly discuss what they have learned from their challenging journey, vital lessons that have helped them along the way, and the importance of community during such times. They also share their personal experiences on finding therapeutic resources and the impact it had on their healing process. Join them as they talk about showing vulnerability, navigating through pain, and extending mutual support during sorrowful times. Connect with us on Instagram: www.Instagram.com/TheWaitingWarriors -Feel free to look through the 3 "James" highlights where I saved my thoughts and experiences over the years Connect with us on Facebook: www.Facebook.com/TheWaitingWarriors TheWaitingWarriors.com Chapter Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction 00:35 Sharing Grief Experiences Online With Military Spouses 02:35 Practical Help and Support For Grieving Military Couples 06:25 Dealing with Grief and Loss As A Military Couple 10:07 Helpful Gifts and Gestures For Grieving Friends 11:10 Dealing with Grief through Art 13:47 Support from Leaders and Community 14:37 Lessons Learned from Grief 17:42 The Healing Power of Journaling 20:58 Navigating Anger in Grief 23:52 Confronting Grief and Fear 24:20 Embracing Anger and Faith 24:51 Personal Interpretations of Religious Teachings 26:53 The Impact of Loss on Faith 27:39 The Journey of Grief and Faith 29:08 The Role of Bibliotherapy in Grief 29:50 Understanding the Stages of Grief 32:49 Communicating Grief with Children 33:16 The Importance of Honesty in Grief 33:54 The Role of Compassion and Empathy in Grief 45:39 The Importance of Seeking Help 49:59 The Hope in Grief 51:29 Final Thoughts and Resources
In 'Losing James: A Military Couple’s Stillborn Story', Austin and Michelle Bowler open up about their deeply personal experience of stillbirth. As a military couple, they also discuss the unique challenges they faced, from deployment to navigating the grieving process while apart from each other. This podcast is a candid conversation about loss, grief, recovery, and the often overlooked perspective of grieving dads. They also discuss the important role of advocacy after the loss and how to navigate life after such an experience. Listening to this heart-tugging conversation may provide comfort, commiseration, or insights for others who may be dealing with similar experiences.
Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Topic Reveal 00:15 Sharing Personal Experiences and Grief 00:56 Trigger Warning and Importance of Sharing Stories 01:39 Beginning of the Personal Story: Pregnancy Announcement 02:11 Deployment News and Gender Reveal 02:58 Uncertainty and Changes in Deployment Plans 03:11 Deployment to Chicago and Pregnancy Progress 04:25 Tragic News: Loss of the Baby 04:30 Immediate Reactions and Emergency Leave 05:41 Dealing with the Aftermath Alone 06:34 Support from Friends and Family 09:36 Unexpected Medical Complication: Placenta Previa 12:37 Coping Mechanisms: March Madness Brackets 14:38 Delivery and Miracle 16:02 The Miracle We Didn't Expect 16:56 Dealing with Loss and Grief 17:40 Choosing Burial and Planning a Funeral 19:32 The Pain of Going Home Empty Handed 20:25 The Struggle of Making Decisions in Grief 23:16 Returning to Work After Loss 27:48 The Importance of Acknowledging Grief 32:34 The Challenge of Postpartum Appointments 34:23 Advocacy and Change in the Medical System
In this episode, two military spouses Michelle Bowler and Shannon Leyko, talk about the importance of embracing individual normality and not conforming to societal standards in one's personal journey, especially in the military community.
A crucial topic is discussed where the speaker shares a personal story of experiencing grief and the importance of taking time to heal and grieve.
The conversation then shifts to welcoming the journey of motherhood, adopting, and raising children as a military spouse.
They also touch on topics like relationships, careers, fitness, living as military spouses, and more.
A key theme in this conversation is learning and relearning that normalcy varies for different people and that's okay.
In the end, embracing your individual journey and having control over your life is what truly matters.
Get Shannon's Book Here: https://amzn.to/3Ri0Jwi https://www.theexpertbeginner.com/
Connect with Shannon: https://www.instagram.com/shannonleyko/?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA==
Chapters:
00:00 Welcome Back to the Waiting Warriors Podcast
00:14 The Journey of Healing and Reconnecting
01:40 Introducing Guest Shannon Leyko
01:49 Shannon's Life as an Author and Mother
02:22 The Unique Story of Shannon's Family
03:31 The Inspiration Behind Shannon's Book
05:02 Shannon's Personal Journey as a Military Spouse and Lessons
06:40 The Impact of Moving to Alaska Because of the Military
12:01 The Importance of Living in the Moment As A Military Spouse
15:02 The Role of Relationships in Military Spouse Life
18:28 Adoption and Cultural Differences
20:17 Embracing Our Weirdness and Building Relationships as a Military Spouse
20:38 The Struggle of Making New Friends as a Military Spouse
21:29 Overcoming the Awkwardness of New Relationships Between Military Spouses
22:22 The Misconception of Being 'Behind' in Life for Military Spouse
22:43 The Power of Realizing 'Normal' Difficulties of Military Spouse Life
23:27 The Importance of Taking Control of Your Military Spouse Life
24:28 The Struggles and Triumphs of Balancing Motherhood and Career
24:37 The Power of Taking Control and Making Friends
25:25 The Importance of Inviting Yourself and Taking Initiative as a Military Spouse
29:29 The Journey of Losing Weight While Balancing Life
32:15 The Struggles and Triumphs of Being a Military Spouse
36:34 The Importance of Creating Your Own Normal as a Military Spouse
37:04 The Importance of Celebrating Everyday Life
38:01 The Power of Gratitude and Celebrating Small Wins
41:00 The Struggles and Triumphs of Being a Military Spouse
Join this interview with Michelle Bowler as she delves into the fascinating world of military spouses and the uncertainty that often colors their lives. In this episode, she hosts an enriching conversation with military spouse and life coach, Michaela Rosales.
Together, these military spouses tackle topics such as navigating transition periods, managing expectations, and surviving the military life's often taxing uncertainties. They discuss the importance of establishing goals, overcoming obstacles, and seeking support when necessary.
Furthermore, they examine the hard-earned wisdom that comes from enduring challenging times. The conversation is brimming with heartfelt stories, insightful discussions, and practical strategies to thrive through the unpredictable journey of being a military spouse.
Tune in as Michaela and Michelle offer inspiration and real-world advice to those seeking to understand and manage the unique challenges of being part of a military family.
00:00 Introduction and Podcast Revival
01:27 Interview with Special Guest Michaela
02:07 Navigating Uncertainties of Military Spouse Life
03:26 Michaela's Personal Experiences and Challenges
08:17 The Impact of Uncertainties on Mental Health
13:28 Tools and Strategies to Handle Uncertainties
18:38 The Importance of Setting Priorities and Goals
20:37 Balancing Personal Life and Military Spouse Life
24:11 Understanding the Wheel of Life
24:57 Client Story: Overcoming Job Stress
26:41 The Importance of Mindset and Willingness to Change
29:51 The Role of Expectations in Relationships
39:33 The Power of Reaching Out and Asking for Help
41:46 Closing Remarks and Contact Information
41:59 Introducing Group Coaching Community with Michaela
Join Michelle as she talks to Rachel, a military spouse, about her journey and experiences with adoption in the military.
They dive into the misconceptions surrounding adoption, the emotional challenges faced by military families, and the importance of ethical practices in the adoption process.
Tune in to gain insights and helpful tips for military families considering adoption.
TheWaitingWarriors.com
https://www.instagram.com/thewaitingwarriors/
RED Friday Shirts and Apparel
In this noteworthy episode of the Waiting Warriors podcast, host Michelle Bowler engages in a sincere conversation with Becky Hoy, an esteemed host of the Pillar Deployment Retreat.
Together, they share their stories, tips, and thoughts about managing and leaning on one's unique experiences during the holidays, particularly when your service member is deployed.
Dive deep with Michelle and Becky as they explore the nuances of spending holidays solo as military spouses, the art of maintaining connections from afar with deployed loved ones, and the power of community support.
More importantly, learn to redefine your holiday experience, accepting and embracing the fact that it may not look the same but can still be special.
Whether you're preparing for the upcoming holiday season or in need of comfort as you sail through it, this episode is infused with insights that can shed light on your journey.
Connect with Michelle Bowler on Instagram: @theWaitingWarriors https://www.instagram.com/thewaitingwarriors/ https://thewaitingwarriors.com/
REGISTER FOR PILLAR Deployment Retreat, a free virtual event for military spouses: bit.ly/pillarmichelle
To stay updated with our episodes, subscribe to the Waiting Warriors podcast. Have a story or question? Reach out to Michelle on Instagram at @theWaitingWarriors.
Episode Keywords: #MilitaryLife, #Deployment, #Holidays, #PillarDeploymentRetreat, #SoloHolidays, #WaitingWarriors.
Maria Strange, a seasoned military spouse and life coach, shares her wisdom with host Army wife Michelle Bowler.
They discuss the differences between 'Clean' and 'Dirty' pain, revealing ways to handle military spouse life's challenges.
It's an eye-opening talk with personal military spouse stories and helpful advice on turning tough times into opportunities for growth.
If you're dealing with life's hurdles, especially in the military community, this episode is a must-listen for new insights!
Connect with Maria: https://www.facebook.com/mariastrangecoaching
Connect with Michelle: https://www.instagram.com/thewaitingwarriors/ https://www.facebook.com/thewaitingwarriors
Get Your FREE guide: 3 Ways To Set Up Your Marriage For A Successful Deployment https://www.subscribepage.com/3waystosetupyourmarriageforasuccessfuldeployment
Embark on the emotional rollercoaster of making friends and building a rock-solid support system during deployment as an introverted military spouse.
This candid interview sheds light on navigating social anxieties and creating lasting connections while your partner is deployed. Gain insights and essential tips for finding your tribe during this challenging time.
Join us in understanding the highs, lows, and transformative power of forming a supportive community amidst the unique journey of military life.
Connect with Michelle TheWaitingWarriors.com and Instagram.com/TheWaitingWarriors
Together, Michelle and Brittany dive deep into the incredible diversity within the military spouse community. They explore how each individual has their own unique journey to share, and the importance of lifting one another up to foster a sense of unity and understanding.
Don't miss this fantastic conversation as we break down stereotypes, build bridges, and create an inclusive community for all military spouses. If you're looking for inspiration, laughs, and a genuine connection, this episode is a must-watch.
Hit that like button, subscribe, and turn on your notifications so you never miss an episode. We're here to bring you real stories, real people, and real inspiration. Join the conversation, and be part of our growing community. Thank you for being a part of the Waiting Warriors Podcast journey!
Connect with Brittany: https://www.instagram.com/mamainnewaltitudes/
Connect with Michelle : https://www.instagram.com/thewaitingwarriors/
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Join us as we embark on a heartfelt and humorous conversation with Erica, a military spouse navigating the challenging waters of deployments, PCS moves, and the quest to find her unique purpose. We explore the power of laughter, daily exercise, and personal projects as keys to thriving in the face of the adversity that comes with military spouse life. Discover how finding joy even in survival mode can transform your military spouse experience. Plus, get ready for plenty of laughter and relatable moments as we delve into Erica's story. Don't miss this uplifting and insightful episode that proves you can embrace both the struggles and the sunshine as a military spouse.
Connect with Erica : https://www.instagram.com/designbyericat/
Connect with The Waiting Warriors: https://www.instagram.com/thewaitingwarriors/
Get Your Free Guide: https://www.subscribepage.com/3waystosetupyourmarriageforasuccessfuldeployment
In this episode, we dive deep into the world of military spouses and the unique challenges they face. Join us for an insightful conversation with Michelle Bowler and Becca Brown as we explore the secrets to thriving military marriages. Discover how self-connection and self-validation play a pivotal role in maintaining healthy relationships, even in the face of deployments and daily dangers.
If you're a military spouse seeking valuable insights and strategies to strengthen your bond while nurturing your own well-being, this episode is a must-listen!
Tune in now to unlock the key to a resilient service marriage, designed especially for military spouses like you.
Connect with Becca Brown
https://www.instagram.com/beccabrownthecoach/ or
Get your freebie: 3 Ways To Set Up Your Marriage For A Successful Deployment - https://www.subscribepage.com/3waystosetupyourmarriageforasuccessfuldeployment
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www.Youtube.com/@TheWaitingWarriors
In this candid and heartfelt conversation, Sarah shares her personal journey as a military spouse, offering invaluable insights and emotional reflections. From initially meeting her now-active-duty husband in college to experiencing the whirlwind of military life, Sarah discusses the challenges and isolating moments she faced, especially during the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Her story highlights the importance of seeking guidance, asking questions, and finding support within the military community. Sarah's experience serves as a reminder that every question is valid and every military spouse's journey is unique, ultimately emphasizing the significance of empathy and understanding within this tight-knit community.
Discover the profound importance of finding community and support for military spouses in this heartfelt interview. Gain valuable insights and hear personal stories from military spouses who understand the unique challenges of military life.
In this conversation, we explore the impact of supportive communities on mental and emotional well-being during deployments, frequent relocations, and other military-related stressors. Learn about the bonds that form within these networks and the available resources for military spouses.
If you're a military spouse seeking inspiration, guidance, or connections with others who share similar experiences, this interview with Paulette is a must-watch. Join us as we discuss the strength found in unity and the power of fostering connections within the military spouse community.
Like, share, and subscribe to our channel for more insightful discussions and stories that matter to military families. Together, we can raise awareness and provide crucial support for those who stand beside our brave servicemembers.
Are you heading into an overseas assignment as a military family? Or maybe you've already been moved by the military and you are wondering what the heck you've gotten into? This episode is for you!
Hear Anna Larson's story, the many places the military moved her family, and how they were able to turn everything into an adventure instead of letting it break their family.
Hear from navy and male spouse, David Carrera, about some of the challenges male military spouses face and how female military spouses can help them feel more apart of the community.
For the transcript of this episode visit TheWaitingWarriors.com/blog
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How can knowing yourself better as a military spouse, military fiance or military girlfriend help you during a deployment or military separation? That’s the big question I asked Lisa Winbolt a military spouse Enneagram Coach today and guys, you need to hear her answer! Not only is self awareness very powerful, I promise you that Lisa Winbolt will shed some new light into how you can make some small adjustments that will dramatically effect how much you thrive or struggle during a military separation or deployment 💙 As always, feel free to put any questions in the comments and let us know, do you even know your and your service members enneagram? Please share with your military friends! https://www.instagram.com/lisawinbolt/. https://www.lisa-winbolt.com/ https://www.instagram.com/thewaitingw... http://thewaitingwarriors.com/
Military spouse Kristen Christy shares her touching story of losing her first husband to suicide and how that effected her and her family. Kristen's story is filled will darkness, but also and bright and powerful amount of hope for all in the military community.
Follow Kristen on Twitter: https://twitter.com/kristenchristy?lang=en
Get more Waiting Warrior tips and resources at http://thewaitingwarriors.com/
A deployment is challenging enough, but a deployment during a pandemic presented many unique challenges for Charlotte and her family. She describes how she models reality and resilience to her children so they can work through their own personal life challenges.
"I don't think that we need to always be perfect and strong in front of our kids, little or teenagers, because I think that they need to see that that's ok and that's real."
-Charlotte Hancey @charlotte.shares
Jenn always felt the strength of "blue family", but it wasn't until her husband was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer that she saw the depth of those ties. She shares with us how the law enforcement community showed up in both big and small ways to support her husband and their family through their hardest challenges, and the lessons she learned along the way.
"Say yes to the adventures. And say yes to the memories, and just really live." -Jenn Henricksen @jenn_henricksen
https://www.subscribepage.com/3waystosetupyourmarriageforasuccessfuldeployment.
In recognition of Memorial Day, Debbie shares the story of her son, Marc Lee, who willingly gave his life for others while serving as a Navy Seal. She explains the life she has chosen to live because of his example of love and service, and offers ways to honor and serve those who have sacrificed everything no matter what our circumstances might be.
"There is no deeper pain than the loss of a child. And I could've curled up in a ball, I could've felt sorry for myself, but that wouldn't have brought Marc back... And so my choice was to put on Marc's boots, and pick up his weapon, and stay in the fight for every man and woman that serves, stay in the fight for every other family who has lost a loved one." -Debbie Lee @americasmighty
Amy has made it her mission to explore the benefits of being outside every single day. She explains the direct influence she has seen it have on her own family and in her personal life.
"I have seen just countless benefits: mental health, physical health, relationships, creativity, grittiness, perseverance. You name it, it's impacted by the experience of going outside and doing things that are outside of your comfort zone."
-Amy Bushatz @humansoutside
We wrap our our Month of the Military Child series with Jolynn Lee, a returning guest on the podcast. She addresses the common concern of "Is military life going to mess up my kids?" Spoiler, it won't.
"No, it's not going to be like this forever. No, I'm not screwing my kid up forever. It's just a moment." -Jolynn Lee
contact@jolynnlee.com www.jolynnlee.com
Abi and Daena, co founders of Legacy Kids Magazine, share both their personal experiences as moms and professional expertise in mental health and counseling in regard to all of the incredibly positive ways that military life can affect our military kids.
"Parents play a huge role in helping the child navigate their narrative. So the parents have the opportunity to shine a light on the benefits of living a challenging life."
Abi Ray and Daena Vandre @legacymag.kids
https://www.legacymagazine.org/
Get the free Waiting Warriors resource 3 Ways to Set Up Your Marriage For A Successful Deployment here: https://www.subscribepage.com/3waystosetupyourmarriageforasuccessfuldeployment
Stephanie shares how the way she approaches her own life as a military spouse has affected her children's outlook on their experiences as a military family.
"I cannot change the fact that [my husband] is doing what he does. I can change my reaction and how we choose to face it." -Stephanie Howell @stephaniehowell
We start our Month of the Military Child series with Amy Harding, mother of 7 and military spouse of over 20 years. She shares her experiences of developing strong family rituals and bonds and how that has helped her children handle the constant changes of military life.
"When you make a conscious focus as a family, there's a thousand different daily decisions and priorities that are going to automatically be made by that." -Amy Harding
Liz likes to be organized, but has learned over several PCS moves that life doesn't always go according to plan. She shares her experiences and tips for how to plan for the unexpected.
"A lot of it is out of our control, but it's our response to those things that kind of shape our attitude and they shape our growth. Either we grow from it and we become better, or we become bitter."
-Liz Cook @listandfile
www.listandfile.com
PCS season can be stressful, emotional, and downright difficult, and if you have kids it can be even more so. Michelle shares four tips that she has personally used to help her own kids deal with the craziness of moving.
"Negative emotion isn't something we need to keep from happening, but we can learn for ourselves and can teach our kids how to process it." -Michelle Bowler @thewaitingwarrior
After 13 moves in 13 years, Mallory is the DITY queen. She shares why she chooses to DITY each time, as well as tips on how to stay organized and simplify the move process.
"My goal is to make [DITY moves] less overwhelming. So I'm not saying that you're not going to be overwhelmed...moving is hard and there's a lot that goes into it and it's hard work, but the more organized you are the easier it feels."
-Mallory @mamas_onthe_move
www.ditymama.com
As an army veteran herself and now a military spouse, Megan has loads of experience with PCSing. Listen as she shares detailed ways to keep track of current regulations, keep control of your move, and get through your PCS with as little stress as possible.
"What I tell people to not be stressed about [a PCS] is it goes into a lot of planning for your PCS, a lot of organizing."
-Megan Harless
PCS Like A Pro: https://www.facebook.com/PCSlikeAPro
Lost During My PCS: https://www.facebook.com/lostduringmypcs
As an experienced army wife and as the executive director of InDependent (a non-profit passionate about military spouse wellness), Evie has come to understand that wellness is not a one-size-fits-all situation. She shares her tips on finding what wellness can look like in your own life, and how it can change depending on your current circumstance as a military spouse. "For me, wellness is doing things that really feed me at the time and defining what wellness is at that moment in my life." -Evie King @independentorg https://www.eventbrite.com/e/independent-wellness-summittm-be-well-registration-132673172029?aff=waitingwarrior&discount=AMBIWS21 https://teespring.com/stores/the-waiting-warrior
It's just Michelle today as we dive into ways to keep your marriage thriving and happy. As military spouses and first responder spouse we need to focus on making choices and being intentional with how we interact and love our spouses. Michelle also gives specific ideas on how to stay connected whether you are together or apart during deployments and separations.
"I don't want to just wait for problems to happen, I want to strengthen my marriage now."
-Michelle Bowler @thewaitingwarrior
Shea is no stranger to the unexpected changes and challenges that life as a military spouse can bring. She shares her stories of learning to see the roadblocks that are getting in the way of her goals and finding detours around them.
"Life is written in pencil and we get to rewrite our expectations."
-Shea Sines @teamboxops
www.boxops.etsy.com
Katie shares her experiences of learning to communicate her needs and ask for help- both in her marriage and with her friends and family- as she navigated her early years as a military spouse.
"I had to learn that if I'm feeling something I need to say it, even if I'm scared of what the reaction might be."
-Katie Hubbs @forthubbs
"I created my own community. I was like, if we don't have one I'm going to create one for us and create one for other families...I essentially created something that didn't exist for me."
-Ashley Weinert @countingourheroeshome
As the spouse of a Reserve National Guard, Ashley's experience as a Waiting Warrior has been more isolated than most. She shares her experience of finding ways to support her children and other military families who aren't surrounded by an immediate military community.
"Every day, if you're trying to do better than the last, then that's progress and that's what we want to achieve to make yourself happier." -Elizabeth Shaw @elizaeshaw Elizabeth shares how she learned to carve out time as a military spouse and a working mom for herself, and how focusing on personal wellness changed her life in many ways.
"As a military spouse we let our mental barriers stop us so much because we're beaten down, we're exhausted, we put ourselves last- and I was tired of putting myself last."
-Flossie Hall @flossie_hall
As an entrepreneur, military spouse, and mom of 4 Flossie has a lot of experience with the roadblocks that come with pursuing personal goals. She explains the benefits of prioritizing individual growth and passions.
"Don't give up. There's always a reason and a purpose for what you're going through. We may not see it, we may never see it, we may never know, but just keep pushing through." -Aleida
Aleida shares the struggle she had with getting pregnant, especially during regular moves with the military. She walks us through her journey with IVF and how she was able to have hope throughout the process.
aflores7533@gmail.com
https://www.subscribepage.com/3waystosetupyourmarriageforasuccessfuldeployment
"Just enjoy the changes, embrace it...Even though it feels like it's going to be forever, it's really not." -Joanna @jomygosh1
Joanna shares the realistic truth of working through hard changes as a military spouse. She explains her process of going from grieving change to embracing it.
www.jomygosh.com
www.military.com
“A bonus lesson learned, is really taking ownership of the life that we do have- regardless of what’s going on around us- and making the most of it.” -Austin Bowler @thewaitingwarrior
Your host, Michelle, and her Army Chaplain husband Austin share what this crazy year has taught them in their own lives and invite you to think over what 2020 has taught you.
https://teespring.com/stores/the-waiting-warrior
"First adjusting to depending on someone else and then to adjust back [to independence] when the Army takes them...just being able to pick up and say "I remember how to do these things. These are muscles that haven't gone away, I just haven't used them in a while." -Julia @spouseserve
The transition from independence to a military dependent when she became a military spouse was an interesting one for Julia. It became even more complicated when separations required her to lean back on her independence.
www.spouseserve.com
https://subscribepage.com/3waystosetupyourmarriageforasuccessfuldeployment
"Whatever you give your energy to- whether it's positive or negative- you put it out it's going to come back to you." -Vanessa @vanessasholisticliving Vanessa explains how she changed her life by focusing on a positive mindfulness, and how that changed affected her life in almost every way. She gives examples of how she has found peace and connection in her life as a military spouse because of it.
"Just because we sign up for something doesn't mean it's not hard. It just means we're going through it regardless and it's going to be hard the whole time, but we're going to get through it anyway." -Christina @themilitaryyogi
Christina is no stranger to the feelings of resentment, anger, and abandonment that often come from a life in the military. She shares her experiences of working through those emotions to keep her marriage intact and gives ideas of how others can do the same.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/yogaformilitarywomen/?ref=share
"Don't ever wish away one year or two years or whatever of your life, because you're not going to get that back." -Yvonne Coombes @eevee_coombes
Yvonne shares her experiences of finding the good in every circumstance, no matter where you are. She describes her experience at a less-than-desirable assignment, which turned into one of her favorite places to be. She also describes her non-profit, Operation Deploy Your Dress, and how you can get involved.
www.operationdeployyourdress.org
"Anything you can do to impact someone else's day or life, that matters." -Jessica Manfre @jess_manfre
Jessica shares with us her passion for service, and the benefits gained by both those being served and those doing the service. She gives small, easy ways that we can serve those in our military community. Please join us on Giving Tuesday and find ways to help those around you.
www.givingtuesdaymilitary.com @givingtuesdaymilitary www.jessicamanfre.com
“[Force] the confrontation and [have] the conversations while you can have them.” -Suzanne @gracefinancialcoaching
Suzanne explains how she and her husband communicate and stay connected even though much of their relationship has been apart from each other. She emphasizes the importance of not waiting to have the hard conversations until there is strain in your relationship.
www.gracefinancialcoaching.com
https://teespring.com/stores/the-waiting-warrior
“It isn’t up to someone else to make you happy, it is up to you to be happy with yourself.” -Marla Bautista @marla.bautista.author
It is easy get lost in the life of a military spouse, and Marla knows all about it. She walks us through her early life of struggling with homelessness and building her independence and her later experiences of losing herself in the expectations of military life. She explains how she reclaimed and maintains her sense of identity, and shares her passion for service with her nonprofit organization The Bautista Project.
www.thebautistaprojectinc.org
“We’re working on a public health level to change things, but it also takes your every day connections to each other to save lives.” -Dr. Ingrid Herrera-Yee @yeeingrid
We conclude our series for National Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month with Dr. Ingrid Herrera-Yee, who has dedicated much of her adult life working in suicide prevention. She shares great resources that provide helpful and confidential services to the military community, and emphasizes the impact that community members can have on each other.
"When we share our broken moment…it helps others realize that they’re not broken alone." -Jolynn Lee @starfishtalks
Jolynn joins our September series for National Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month. She shares her family's experience with trauma, and how she believes the military community can influence the conversation around trauma and healing.
Contact her by email at contact@jolynnlee.com or at her website www.jolynnlee.com
“I can never ever ever get my dad back…but what I can do is live my life with purpose, spread my message, and try to change the world for the better so that we’re seeing less and less of this devastating epidemic.” -Kati Poston @the.eight.postons
September is National Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month, and we are kicking off a series on suicide awareness with military spouse Kati. Kati shares with us her personal experience with suicide, and how she chooses to learn from that experience by sharing light and hope with those around her.
“Be ok with where you’re at, what you’re doing.” -Amy @tiny_troops_soccer
As a military spouse of 18 years, Amy knows how hard and lonely the military life can be. Listen as she gives her best tips on how to find what works for you, especially during separations and deployment. She also shares her passion, Tiny Troops Soccer, and explains how you and your kids can get involved.
tinytroopssoccer.com
“Anybody can make an impact. Really.” -Christal
Christal explains that foster care while serving in the Army is not only possible, but is much more accessible than people think. She walks us through her process of becoming a foster parent and the unique challenges and advantages that come with foster care in the military community. She also gives concrete ways that you can help those in foster care even if fostering in your home is not for you.
christal@clement-arts.org
“Community is everything. And just being there to support one another whether it is with business or whether it’s with life…at the end of the day we always have somebody, hopefully, to lean on.” -Monica @spouse.ly
Monica explains her inspiration behind the creation of Spouse-ly, an online marketplace to support Miltary/Veteran spouse and service member owned businesses. She also emphasizes the importance of building the military spouse community, and supporting those around you however you can.
”No matter what is going on in our life -no matter what the issues are, the circumstances that we are facing- they are not bigger than our marriage.” -Ashley Wallis @_ashleywallis
Ashley takes us through her military spouse journey of discovering how to communicate fully with her husband, even amidst extreme hardship such as constant moves, 3 hyperemesis gravidarum (HG) pregnancies, dealing with her daughter's autoimmune disease, and more. She explains how she and her Army husband pulled together from the brink of divorce and have developed specific tools to help make their marriage successful.
“You have to keep on moving, adjust, and deal with it.” -Lily
Lily shares how she adjusted from civilian life surrounded by close family to military spouse life stationed far away from her support group.
“When we see a friend or someone we love is hurting, we want to jump in there and fix it. And in this situation there is really nothing you can say or do that is going to fix it.” -Wendi @strength4spouses
Wendi shares her experiences as an army wife dealing with infertility and pregnancy loss when surrounded by families with children in the military. She shares ways to reach out to military spouses who are in similar situations, and what those suffering after miscarriage really need.
“You can NOT compare suffering. There’s no limit to the world’s empathy. We all deserve a piece of it, and every little pain that we feel and we think shouldn’t exist…that’s just not how emotion works.” -Morgan Slade @morganslade_
Morgan explains why military spouses and first responder spouses need to give themselves some grace and realize that being a military wife does not mean that you have to do it all. She explores self-compassion and the importance of leaning on the military spouse community around you.
“No matter how hard it is you dig deep and you find that resilience in you, that perseverance. Because it’s always there, you have just now decided that you are going to pull it from the depths and put it to work.” -Hannah
Listen in while Hannah shares her experiences of being a twin mom and Air Force wife, and how her experiences have taught her how important resilience is. Hannah has realized that resilience always lives inside us, we just have to learn to tap into it. Check out her episode to learn how to draw on your own power. You can connect with Hannah at https://www.fleacefreelancing.com/
"Our loved ones have been called to help others, and so they're not always there to help us. So [self care] is...giving us back our power to be able to fill our souls and get us human again." -Noralee from @MrsNavyMama
Listen as Noralee and I talk about our personal experiences of learning the importance or self care and how Noralee has broken down the process so we can make an individualized, full proof plan for our own self care. You'll walk out with steps you can take today to make sure your cup stays full!
Also, make sure you listen to the end and join our salad and stinky cheese pun challenge :) Target gift card to the best one shared on social media (make sure you tag @TheWaitingWarrior and @MrsNavyMama)
“If my husband’s watching your husband’s back and he’s watching my husband’s back, we need to have each other’s backs. That makes us family.” - Meagan Davis
Listen as Meagan Davis shares how she gets her family involved in serving the community, and the experiences that have taught her just how vital it is for us to open our hearts and eyes to others. This life can be so lonely, can but it doesn't have to be!
Connect with Meagan on Facebook!
And get more Waiting Warrior content on Instagram or Facebook @TheWaitingWarrior
"Never ever let them start a shift without kissing them, and never ever let them end a shift without kissing them and telling them that you love them.“ Julia
Listen as Julia, an ex cop and wife to a police man/national guardsman, shares her personal and professional experiences with loved ones fighting off demons. While this is one of the "heavier" topics for Waiting Warriors, these are very real and important things for us to be prepared for!
Connect with Julia on facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/julia.woods.75
Make sure you subscribe and leave a review! Thanks for all your support!
“What you see in other people’s marriages- good, bad, or indifferent- that doesn’t mean that that’s what it has to be for you.” Bree Carroll from @HeartsStripes
Bree is passionate about strong Waiting Warrior marriages and shares how she went from having no desire to be married, to having a thriving partnership with her husband. Listen as she shares actionable examples of what they do as a couple to work together and thrive.
Connect with Bree on Instagram @HeartsStripes and listen to the podcast on your favorite platform!
I also want share something that’s really helped me lately called Productivity Bootcamp created by Jordan Page. If you are feeling constantly behind on life, anxious, stressed, disorganized, or like you’re burning out I have something I really think will help you. I was there, swallowed up by so many changes, kids, and things that were all good, but I couldn’t seem to figure out how to make things work. But then I found an online course called Productivity Bootcamp and it has helped me figure out so many things. What I love most and why I’m sharing with you all is that this course is moldable to your life. I do have an affiliate link (https://productivitybootcamp.com/?cookieUUID=11109a2c-770b-47c2-a472-c56d329d8924) or on my instagram bio f you’d like to support the podcast . Please know, I am very particular about about what companies I let sponsor the podcast because I truly only want to share things that will help you guys thrive, and I know this is one of those things so go check out those links! https://productivitybootcamp.com/?cookieUUID=11109a2c-770b-47c2-a472-c56d329d8924
“Being a military spouse, or being a first responder spouse, is a hat you put on. It’s not who you are. And it does become a part of your identity, but it cannot become your identity.” Serena West from @ShopWestHouse
Serena is no stranger to feeling of realizing that the life you envisioned for yourself is impossible while being a Waiting Warrior. But after years of wearing too many hats that weren't serving her, she figured out how to focus on the things that helped her most. You won't want to miss this solid, actionable and motivating advice!
Check out Serena's shop at https://www.shopwesthouse.com/
I also want share something that’s really helped me lately called Productivity Bootcamp created by Jordan Page. If you are feeling constantly behind on life, anxious, stressed, disorganized, or like you’re burning out I have something I really think will help you. I was there, swallowed up by so many changes, kids, and things that were all good, but I couldn’t seem to figure out how to make things work. But then I found an online course called Productivity Bootcamp and it has helped me figure out so many things. What I love most and why I’m sharing with you all is that this course is moldable to your life. I do have an affiliate link (https://productivitybootcamp.com/?cookieUUID=11109a2c-770b-47c2-a472-c56d329d8924) or on my instagram bio f you’d like to support the podcast . Please know, I am very particular about about what companies I let sponsor the podcast because I truly only want to share things that will help you guys thrive, and I know this is one of those things so go check out those links! https://productivitybootcamp.com/?cookieUUID=11109a2c-770b-47c2-a472-c56d329d8924
"It's very, very scary to put yourself out there and to try to make friends and put yourself in new situations, and awkward situations, and anxious situations." Kara @hey.pointdexter
Kara is a naturally shy, stays in her comfort zone kind of woman, but military life (specifically moving to a small village in Germany with a brand new husband and then him leaving for training right away) has taught her how important it is to build your community. Listen and hear how she personally overcomes her social anxieties and fears and what you can do too!
I also want share something that’s really helped me lately called Productivity Bootcamp created by Jordan Page. If you are feeling constantly behind on life, anxious, stressed, disorganized, or like you’re burning out I have something I really think will help you. I was there, swallowed up by so many changes, kids, and things that were all good, but I couldn’t seem to figure out how to make things work. But then I found an online course called Productivity Bootcamp and it has helped me figure out so many things. What I love most and why I’m sharing with you all is that this course is moldable to your life. I do have an affiliate link (https://productivitybootcamp.com/?cookieUUID=11109a2c-770b-47c2-a472-c56d329d8924) or on my instagram bio f you’d like to support the podcast . Please know, I am very particular about about what companies I let sponsor the podcast because I truly only want to share things that will help you guys thrive, and I know this is one of those things so go check out those links! https://productivitybootcamp.com/?cookieUUID=11109a2c-770b-47c2-a472-c56d329d8924
"If we can always keep the benefits and good things at the forefront of our minds then it just makes dealing with the challenges that little bit easier." Gems Collins
This week Gems shares her perspective as an UK immigrant military spouse. She shares her experience with having to adapt to US life and military life, but also her strong belief of the benefits of a positive attitude!
Get more Waiting Warrior content on Instagram or Facebook
“If we are starting to get twisted up about x, y, or z and we pause and realize whether or not we have actually said it out loud, and we come to notice we haven’t said it out loud, then we are really at fault” -Austin
Austin and I realized a lot of similarities between what's happening with covid 19 and handling a reintegration from a military deployment. Listen in as we share how we are using tools we learned from our post deployment experience in 2019 to better navigate figuring out our new normal now.
Get more Waiting Warrior content on Instagram and the Website!
"It's important, when he's not communicating, to realize he's not doing it on purpose." Morgan
This week on the podcast Morgan gives us some really good reminders of communication basics, that we often forget or loose sight of when we are in the middle of the whirlwinds.
Be sure to get more Waiting Warrior content on Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/thewaitingwarrior/
Huge thank you to our sponsor: https://www.countdownsandcupcakes.com/
Check them out for all your care package needs!
"We definetly worked through it but it definetly cause some problems. It's not all rainbows and butterflies." Tara from @Realtalkwiththe_ms_s
This quote is a perfect summary for this episode: it's completely honest but still hopeful.
Tara gives us a real and open look at how lonely this life can be and how important it is to communicate effectively. Listen for a few tips and call outs on things I'm sure most of us do!
Hear more from Tara on her podcast Real Talk With the Ms's: https://www.instagram.com/realtalkwiththe_ms_s/
"It's not so much that I don't care what other people think...but I'm not going to care to that point that what they think of me is going to affect the way that I view myself." Sabrina
Listen as Sabrina shares how she's had many rocky transitions, but it's led her to a deep appreciation for every kind of woman and military spouse. Her outlook is not only inspiring with her love for other women, but for her love for herself. She has a powerful message for all of us!
"Every bit of your advocacy for your child is worth it." Michelle Norman
Michelle is a great example, not just for the special needs parents, but for all parents to fight for what their children need and deserve. Listen to the episode for not only her story of fighting for her daughter an all other military EFMPs but also her sound advice for all parents.
Connect with Michelle https://www.facebook.com/MIchelleNormanMSOY/
https://www.instagram.com/michelle_norman_2019_navy_msoy/
"I don't think anyone goes into a marriage or parenthood saying 'I want to do this alone.' You get married to your partner to have a partner. And then you have children, and you want to raise them with your partner. But unfortunately this military lifestyle doesn't always allow that." Ashley from @Mutu_Strong
Ashely, a seasoned military wife, shares her experience with fighting off the resentment that can easily come into our marriages. Listen as she talks about the different ways she's stayed committed and strengthens herself.
Connect with Ashley at mutustrong.com
Check out the Independent Wellness Summit use code Warrior20 for a discounted All Access Pass: https://in-dependent.org/wellness-summit
"People just genuinely like to be around more positive, joyful people. It's contagious!" -Tiffany from Real Talk with the Ms's
Listen as Tiffany shares of how she went from a soldier to a military spouse, the intense struggles that the shift brought into their marriage, and how she's learned to breathe positivity and life into her life.
Check out Tiffany's podcast Real Talk With The Ms's: https://realtalkwiththemss.podbean.com/
https://www.instagram.com/realtalkwiththe_ms_s/
I finally got my husband Austin to sit down and talk about our deployment in 2019. While we know each deployment is different, we hope that the lessons we learned from what we did right, and what we didn't, will help you with all your separations!
Don't forget to register for the FREE Independent Wellness Summit for Military and First Responder loved ones! https://in-dependent.org/wellness-summit General admission is FREE or use the code Warrior20 to receive a big discount on the All Access Pass!
Want more Waiting Warrior content? Follow on Instagram or Facebook!
"There's some ways that you're forced to grow and there are some ways that you can choose to grow." MJ Willis
This weeks episode is with a seasoned spouse and mother, MJ, who talks about how military and mom life has shown her the importance of giving herself gifts. Not the diamond necklace kind of gifts, but the ones that really fulfill our desires.
“Life is difficult. Things are not going to be easy. So if you are passionate about something and you’ve had this dream, it’s sitting in your gut and it’s what you want to do… do it! DO IT. Take off the floaties, man, jump in!”
Maria Reed, a seasoned military spouse talks about her experience of losing herself in mom and military life but then coming back as a powerful, go getter woman. This episode will definitely leave you with a pep in your step!
Check out Moving with the Military
www.movingwiththemilitary.tv
https://www.instagram.com/movingwiththemilitary/
https://www.facebook.com/movingwiththemilitary/
"On any given day it can be more than you can bear, but then you get to go to sleep." Kim Reeves
With 5 kids, multiple deployments and law school under their belt you can tell that Kim and her husband aren't ones to shy away from hard things. Listen to Kim's episode and hear how instead of shying away from the hard they lean into it, and make the most of life.
"We talk so much about finding your tribe…but I just learned in PCSing so much that it’s so important, it’s equally as important, that we invite others into ours."
Mallory shares her experiences with the most intense military wife dity "resume" I've ever heard of!
Check out her incredibly helpful DITY moving resources on her Instagram and Blog
https://www.instagram.com/mamas_onthe_move/
https://ditymama.com/
“I knew at some time [he] was going to be deployed. And I was like ‘what are some things that we need to be strong in?’ And marriage was just one of those things. It had to be a priority…I just saw a huge need for that to grow if we were going to be better off during his deployment.” Morgan
Morgan shares how her first few years as a military spouse have gone and transitioning her marriage from civilian to military needs and demands.
Connect with Morgan on Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/mkatlee/
Follow the Podcast and Michelle on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/thewaitingwarrior/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thewaitingwarrior
"Most the time we are stronger than we think we are." -Andrea Adkins
Andrea shares her perspective of being a daughter of a National Guardman her whole life, the ups and the downs.
Andrea currently runs https://report-to-base.com/
which helps military families have all the resources they need in one place as they PCS
"I feel like a spouse who is thriving is generally happy…. They have the ability to find happiness"- Kristen
Whip out your notebooks and pens because you are going to want to remember every word Kristen says!
She gives clear steps and actionable things you can do to go from a struggling Waiting Warrior to a thriving one!
Be sure to check out her amazing shop here (use code WARRIOR15):
https://brushfireblue.com/discount/WARRIOR15
“We know that we’ve signed up for a certain lifestyle, but I still feel so strongly that we deserve to feel like we’re thriving as a family and that this time apart isn’t just going to be a detriment to us.” -@Deployjoyco
This week's episode is a first, a duel episode with Jamie and Madeline, founders of Deploy Joy Co, a military children's subscription box company and community for parent's who want to thrive with their kids during deployment.
During their interview Jamie and Madeline talk about their experiences as new military spouses and how they want to help military families make it through all the crazy!
Be sure to check out their website https://deployjoyco.com/
Corie Weathers, a licensed professional counselor who specializes in helping military and first responder marriages, shares 4 ways we can breath life into our service marriages. Her points are not just run-of-the-mill answers you'd find in a pamphlet, but filled with real experience and extremely helpful for every relationship.
Learn more from Corie at her website: https://www.corieweathers.com/
Buy her book: https://amzn.to/2WmVkub
Connect with Corie on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CorieLPC/
“Just because my husband’s gone doesn’t mean I don’t deserve to be fully taken care of as I would take care of the two of us if he was here.” -Bernadette Soler @dollyogawear
Military life will rock even the most solid of people, even the people who's profession are all about peace and being calm. Yoga instructor Bernadette experienced the rock in a big way when she became a military spouse and was able to turn to Yoga to create mantra and practices that were specific for what life was throwing her.
check out her ebook at https://www.ateasebook.com/
Get 20% off the book with WAITINGWARRIOR
https://www.instagram.com/dollyogawear/
“We’re all experiencing similar things. We all have those feelings of doubt, we all have those insecurities, those nights that you stay up and worry... People just don’t talk about it as much as we should, or maybe that we could.”
This week's episode is with a Veteran and Law Enforcement wife Mckell Smith. She shares her experience of watching her husband transition from military life to law enforcement and how we all can use constant reminders that we aren't alone.
https://www.theravnetwork.com/
https://www.instagram.com/theravnetwork/
https://www.facebook.com/theraVnetwork
“The tools are right in front of us, and no one should ever feel like they don’t have those tools to engage and flourish with their child.” Kara Kriete
Kara shares with us how important and possible it is for all Waiting Warrior families to have not only positive open communication with their children, but also get help with speech therapy, regardless of their physical situation.
https://www.instagram.com/communicatewithkara/
“I wish I had kind of just been more true to my authentic self. I wish I had held onto that earlier in my life, that yes we can be supportive of our spouses and supportive of our military – and I am – but it doesn’t have to take over my own life. There’s a place for me to be who I am in the midst of all of that.” -Amy Uptgraft
Get tickets for I Will Wait! https://www.iwillwaitvsp.com/?fbclid=IwAR1WQk98XLLFziyzt-gLDclrErFtGWK6J4PxzqfAM7Co3neaU5ob1yYOLnE
Follow on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/iwillwaitvsp/
This week's episode is the introduction to the theme of the month that will be running on @TheWaitingWarrior social media accounts. Throughout the month I'll be sharing products and tips but today I wanted to share one of the biggest ways I've taken a mental load off of my Waiting Warrior self.
Don't forget I'll be treating random people who write reviews or share about the podcast on social media! Just make sure you tag me, The Waiting Warrior, so I can see it!
“I know that if I can focus on having time in my schedule for key habits that set me up for success then I’m going to be able to handle those moments of stress even more effectively.” - Becky Hoy @bravecrate
Listen to the episode to hear how Becky has turned the biggest stress inducing moments of military life into positive growing experiences!
This episode is sponsored by Brave Crate. A deployment box curated especially for the loved one at home. Visit https://www.bravecrates.com/ to grab a box for yourself or a friend!
“We’re thinking that they’re not noticing or not seeing or not feeling cause Daddy hasn’t left yet. Well guess what, they’re already starting to feel tension or they’re feeling what we’re feeling or they’re unsure…They are seeing the suitcases and the extra gear, they’re noticing things, but we’re so busy and we’re caught up in it…but they are noticing, they are seeing, they are recognizing a change - a shift - is happening.” Chandelle Walker
Get Your Own Copy of Daddy Left With Mr. Army: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1480868051?pf_rd_p=c2945051-950f-485c-b4df-15aac5223b10&pf_rd_r=1DBFSCG0FPXAMVH4C0PW
Chandelle Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kidsbooksbychandelle/
Waiting Warriors Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewaitingwarrior/
“Stuff is going to happen: good stuff, bad stuff, awful stuff …but how we respond to it is where our power is.” -Zanna Wolfgang @HonorTheBrave
Tragedies happen to our loved ones, but we can't always fix it.
Listen on the podcast to Zanna share her touching story of helping her husband, their marriage, and family get through their tragedy and how they turned a dark chapter of life into a bright service oriented business.
This week is the intro to March's theme: Small & Simple Things to Strengthen Family Bonds! Make sure you're following along on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/thewaitingwarrior/) and Facebook(https://www.facebook.com/thewaitingwarrior/) for tips all month long!
Today's episode is all about how we can communicate better with our Warrior so we show how much we cherish them!
“It’s ok to support your spouse, believe in your country, believe in their mission...and it’s also ok to say it’s hard.” Valli Gideons
Seasoned Marine Wife Valli Gideons shares on this week's podcast episode about her experiences as a mother to two children with cochlear ear implants and marine spouse with holding nothing back. Hear how she advocates for her children, and faces military life for what it is.
www.mybattlecall.com
www.facdbook.com/mybattlecall
www.instagram.com/mybattlecall
www.twitter.com/valligideons
“I do believe there is a lot of good in every day… we just have to slow down and notice it.” @upliftinganchor
Hope. It seems to be this thing we know we need and keeps us glued together as Waiting Warriors, but how do we find it? In this weeks episode of the podcast Lindsay talks about her journey with hope and how we can implement things in our lives to keep hope strong and alive.
Check out Lindsay's blog: http://www.upliftinganchor.com/
Come join the Waiting Warrior Community on Instagram and Facebook!
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“If you reach out and connect with just one resource -on your base, in your community, online –you’re going to find a network of people who want to help you and support you. And finding that encouragement can really give you that strength and that confidence that you need to face what you have ahead.” @seasonedspouse_military_advice
Military life is not always easy, but if there is one thing that Lizann believes, it’s that you don’t have to do it alone. Listen to her episode on The Waiting Warriors Podcast and hear all her advice on how anyone, anywhere can find the help and community they need!
Check out Lizann's Deployment Master Class: https://seasonedspouse.com/deployment/
This week's episode is all about the theme for the month: Finding Ease in the Kitchen!
We've all had those seasons in our life when it just seems like food is just too hard, but while those seasons do happen, we don't have to get STUCK in the season until our loved ones come home.
Listen to this episode AND follow along on Instagram and Facebook for helpful tips that will make your life easier in the kitchen
https://thefamilyfreezer.com/
https://www.instagram.com/favoreatsapp/
https://cleansimpleeats.com/
https://www.instagram.com/cleansimpleeats/
“You want to be a mom and you know you want this child and you want to take care of them, but no one but actually follows up to make sure that moms are ok.” - Codi
Codi shares with us her story of being thrown through the military life tornado with multiple babies and health problems and found herself in the middle of deep PPD and PPA.
Connect with Codi: https://www.instagram.com/codiishername/
https://codiishername.wixsite.com/mysite
Check out more Waiting Warriors content on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewaitingwarrior/
“It’s ok to reach out and tell people that you need help. It’s ok to tell people that you’re not ok, and that you’re not in a good place, and that you need a minute, and accept that help.” @mrsbrookeeubank
Deployments are hard. Having a baby is hard. No doubt about either of those things.
Combining them puts you in a whole different ball game, but that’s what Brookelyn Eubank has endured, and endured it well.
Connect with Brookelyn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mrsbrookeeubank/
“When we concentrate on what we have, then we have enough. And if we concentrate on what we don’t have then we’re always lacking." - Cote from @ammoandgrace
This week we have LEOW Cote share her personal and professional insights on gratitude and how it's strengthened her relationship and enhanced her life.
Get her free gratitude printable here, fill them out and let us see how you are using them on Instagram! https://ammoandgrace.com/2018/11/03/attitude-of-gratitude-in-our-marriage-free-printable/
Check out her LEOW faith based blog at https://ammoandgrace.com/ and connect with her on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/ammoandgrace/
We have some new things brewing for all of you Waiting Warriors and I'll be sharing a new tip that helped me get out of my big rut.
I have a lot of fun content and giveaways starting on Instagram and Facebook. Find me here: https://www.instagram.com/thewaitingwarrior/
https://www.facebook.com/thewaitingwarrior/
Also have the blog so you can get podcast summaries and our top tips and helpful products for the month:
http://thewaitingwarriors.com/
“We have to be very careful that we’re not building this huge emotional pitfall…you can’t do that. You can’t allow the bad of the deployment overcome the joy of Christmas.”
Follow the podcast and get more helps for military and first responder loved ones on Instagram
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“We always said ‘This is right for us at this time. And as long as we keep thriving in this lifestyle and our children keep thriving in this lifestyle, we’re going to keep doing it. And we’ll know when it’s time to stop doing it.’” -Bridget Middleton
You see it on the news, too often in my opinion: Officer so and so was killed by... 2 soliders were killed by... We take a moment of silence for the fallen, we know that there are others who will continue to put there life on the line.
I don't know about you, but I can't help but think about the ones that are left behind. We take a moment to acknowledge their sacrifice, but what about the mother who will never be able to welcome her son home for Thanksgiving dinner, what about the wife who will have to wake up every day without her person by her side.
If you haven't heard of @britt.m.harris, prepare to fall in love with her adorable daughter develop an intense admiration for this strong Gold Star women who works endlessly to memorialize her remarkable husband.
Connect with Gold Star Wife Britt Harris on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/britt.m.harris/
and make sure you always get updates on the podcast by subscribing and come join me on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/thewaitingwarrior/
"Where there’s hope, you start to have vision. And where there’s vision you start to take action." - Sommer Tucker
" All of us get to pick up our pen and unapologetically write our story" - Sommer Tucker
I couldn't pick just one quote, that's how good this episode is!
Check Sommer Tucker out
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sommertucker/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SommerTucker
**Website & EMERGENCY CHECKLIST: https://www.sommertucker.com/
Air Force Chaplain Steve Jensen talks with us today about suicide postvention: What to do after a suicide is completed.
I LOVED doing this interview and personally learned so much because we talk about suicide prevention: watch out for this, here's this hotline number, watch out for that. But what do we do when someone dies by suicide? What do I do when I know the spouse? What do I do if I don't know the spouse?
"I’m not moving on. He is a part of my life. We share him with the girls every single day. I am moving forward. And that moving forward is choosing to live life despite the trial that we have had, and still have in grieving him." - Alaira Larsen Packard @picking.our.pieces
For the second episode of the podcast's Suicide Prevention Awareness Series the lovely Alaira shares with us her experience when her late husband died by suicide during active Army service.
I honestly don't think there's anything I can say here that will properly describe this interview, so you'll just have to hop over to iTunes, Stitcher or Youtube and listen to it!
If you'd like to connect with Alaira you can best find her on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/picking.our.pieces/
To start off the podcast's Suicide Prevention Awareness Series I interviewed Dave Wood, who has an extensive background in the military, psychology, and suicide, to talk to use about suicide prevention.
"Things are not going the way you want them to go. You’re not getting the assignment you want to get, the timeline for your move is not the way that you want it to be, it’s not what’s most convenient…All of these things are out of my control, and so me stressing about it or me getting worked up about it or not being happy about it really doesn’t serve me any purpose because it’s not in my control, it’s not something that I can change. So being upset about it doesn’t help anybody. It just makes it all harder." - Ashley Evans
**Huge Thanks to today's sponsor Brave Crate! https://www.bravecrates.com/
The Program Ashley and her husband have been going through to prepare their family for deployment: https://www.lds.org/bc/content/shared/english/military/Becoming-Self-Reliant-and-Resilient-Family_eng.pdf?lang=eng
Connect with Ashley on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashley.k.evans/
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“Design a life that you love and that you’re proud of and that gets you excited to wake up for everyday.” - Esther Inman
Check out Esther's virtual assistant class here : bit.ly/VAIclass
Esther's website: www.VirtualAssistantInternship.com
Esther's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/virtualassistantinternship
CONNECT WITH ME!!
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or leave a review for the podcast. I'd love to hear from you!
I hijacked the podcast and I hope you don't mind! I just wanted to hop on and share some thoughts and experiences I've had with successfully and unsuccessfully finding my tribe and thriving as a Waiting Warrior.
I'd love to meet you guys!
https://www.facebook.com/thewaitingwarrior/
https://www.instagram.com/thewaitingwarrior/
And please feel free to share and review the podcast!
“As Waiting Warriors we are dealing with a lot of extra stress in our lives from our spouse’s careers… so I think it makes it a lot easier when they’re gone for a long time, you’re alone or they’re working the crazy hours and it unpredictable or dangerous; To be able to find the joy in the madness” Krista Stubbs
Reach Out To Krista: https://www.instagram.com/kjstubbs/
https://www.viacharacter.org/survey/Survey
https://www.authentichappiness.sas.upenn.edu/home
“I’ve really had to put my faith and trust in [my husband] during some difficult times, which has really helped me support him now in his career and what he does because we’ve been through so much throughout our marriage.” -Lindsey Gordon
Connect with Lindsey here: https://www.facebook.com/lindsey.gordon.121
July 13th 6 years ago Austin signed his life away so today we are sharing with you the wealth of knowledge we've gained ;) Mostly from making mistakes.
Today's episode is sponsored by Bright Box!
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Enjoy and we'd love for you to share with us what you think with a rating and review!
Since this week is 4th of July, I wanted to do something really special. Months ago I was trying to think of what special thing I could do and nothing seemed to be special enough. I had thought of some guest speakers who could talk about important topics, thought of doing a tribute to all of you, but then a thought came that honestly struck my heart. Why don’t you “interview” the most amazing Waiting Warrior you know of: Great Grandma Ester Packard. Now, my Great Grandma Esther past away before my dad was even born, but her goodness, strength and story continue to live on. He husband, Great Grandpa Forrest Packard was actually a prisoner of war during WWII, which left Esther home, alone, no job or skills, just a huge farm to get out of debt, and raising 11 children at home, though she had 16, only 11 were still at home.
Lucky for us one of my dad’s cousins, Ellen Leavitt, spent years putting together a detailed history of Forrest and Esther’s story during the war together and printed a book years ago called “They Never Wavered” so I am able to tell her story today.
Let’s first go back to before the war. Forrest and Esther Packard moved their family from Nampa to a 40 acre farm 3 miles south of Merdian Idaho, just before the crash of 1929. The family worked hard but could not get ahead. By 1941 Esther was pregnant with baby number 16 in July and times were hard. The two oldest, Beth and Dee were now married, and Jay was graduated and was moving to California in June. Cleo remained home to help, and Von, Donna, Floyd, Ron, Bud and Bill were in school, with Bob, Ben, and Bernie being preschoolers. The family was still trying to pay off the debt on their little farm, and Esther and the children were doing most of the hard farm work while Forrest worked as a carpenter in Tampa for the Pacific Fruit Express, which was part of the Union Pacific Railroad. Forrest was concerned about being laid off so when the chance came for a higher paying job with Morrison-Knudsen Construction Company working at Boise’s Gowen Field. When that job was completed the company had nothing else so Forrest was left to attempt to find odd job. The family remembers him often coming home with nothing. The family was in extreme need but Forrest and Esther refused to join any government welfare programs.
Later in the year Morrison-Knudsen advertised in the local papers for carpenters, large equipment operators, cooks and everything else needed to set up an active community of workers to go to a small island called Wake in the middle of the Pacific Ocean to help construct a naval air base. The pay was excellent and the contract was only for 9 months. This opportunity would mean they could pay off the family farm and have money left over. Forrest was 48 years old, work had been scared throughout the depression, but this still wasn’t a spur of the moment decision. Forrest and Esther took a whole month to talk, lay out all the benefits and risks, pray, and then as a united front present the idea to the children. They wanted everyone to buy into it and be apart of the decision.
On April 27th, 1941 Forrest left Boise to California, from there to went to Honolulu where he waited for the next ship to Wake Island. While there he went to local religious leaders seeking comfort and guidance. There he received a blessing that while he was gone he and his family would live and his family chain be unbroken. Forrest really believed in that blessing, wrote about it to home, and he and the family found a lot of strength and peace.
After about 7-10 days at sea Forrest arrived on Wake Island on May 23, 1941. For the next 5 1/2 months Forrest lived a comfortable life, worked hard as a carpenter on the island and since he was one of the older men on the island, being 48, he was a strong example of goodness and handwork to others. Meanwhile at home Esther was keeping the farm and family in line. Though they missed Forrest, they knew they could manage and were loving the letters and shells he would send home to Idaho. As the end of the year approached the men on the island would hear rumors of tensions with Japan, but just like the rest of the country, never thought they were in real danger, especially not while Japan was on American soil having peace talks.
After having a long work week of working over time, the men on Wake Island finally had Dec 7th off, which was Dec 6th in the US. The next day, work started as usual. At daybreak the radio broadcast of the bombing on Pearl Harbor reached Wake Island, the operator on duty woke up the Commander of the island telling of the news. While the soldiers and marines on the island immediately began to prepare the severely under manned and under armed island, the civilian workers only heard rumors of the bombing, kept on working, and didn’t get any verification of the attack until later that morning. Still they kept on working until Wake Island received its first attack, just as most the men were getting ready to go to lunch.
Wake Island’s population consisted of 68 naval personnel, 388 combat marines, 60 marine air cop, a 6 man army communications detail, 70 Pan American Airways employees, and 1,146 civilian construction workers. They had only 12 planes, and only enough men to man half of the guns on the island. Most of the men didn’t even have side arms, gas masks, or helmets.
Those men fought for 16 days, sustaining 17 air attacks, and still severely damaging the enemy : destroying an estimated of 11 ships, 29 planes and 5700 men. 51 other bombers sustained damage from Wake guns and planes.
While to the rest of the country Wake Island became the Alamo of the Pacific: the one island to actually resist the Japanese, the heroes that brought vigor back to a defeated country, the stories and news reports of Wake’s fight gave no such feelings to Esther and the Packard family in Idaho.
While the rest of the country was holding out hope that maybe just one would survive, just one would keep on fighting and keep the American resilencence and spirit alive, Ester and her children wouldn’t have found such hope. They just wanted one to live, and his odds were not as good as the other. “The men were made into heroes and that did not help Esther” and this is perhaps one of the greatest difficulties of being a Waiting Warrior. We cherish our loved ones, we know the work they do is good and courageous, but often their courage gives us fear.
From Dec 8th to Dec 23rd Esther lived by the radio and newspaper searching for any information of Wake and yet all she was hearing was the following.
Dec 8-Between 20 and 30 twin engined bombers in the opening attack caught 8 of the garrison’s 12 planes on the ground, put the 8 out of action and killed 25 of the marines.
Dec 9-There were two more raids by planes which also carried incendiaries but due to vigorous plan and anti air craft defenses, damage was less severe than on the 8th.
Dec 10-There was a fourth air raid at dawn while for the first time enemy warships started pumping shells onto the flat, virtually shelterless atoll.. nevertheless wake’s guns replied with such good effect to this double attack that a light cruiser and destroyer were sunk. The defenders also had the satisfaction of shaking up a total of 6 enemy planes destroyed too and including this 3rd day of battle.. two transports kept out of rand while 18 planes came over for the 5th air raid. Only 16 departed. The marines still had 3 planes aloft.
Dec 11- A four enter seaplane attacked. Marine fliers… promptly shot it down. The convoy reappeared. Marin fliers damaged one vessel and sank a submarine.
Dec 12 - The enemy did not appear
Dec 13- By moonlight bombers came over. Anti aircraft fire discouraged them from dropping bombs.
Dec 14-Fifty bombers unloosed the heaviest air raid. Three planes were downed, plus others were damaged. The marines planed were reduced to one (They heroically managed to patch a second one together.
Dec 15- At night a 9th air raid caused no serious damage
Dec 16-more than 25 bombers attacked
Dec 17-They came again. By now practically every installation on the island was heavily damaged or destroyed.
Dec 18-Bombers devasted the few buildings left standing
Dec 19-there was no raid
Dec 20-dive bombers, evidently from a carrier, roared down on the island.
Dec 21- The enemy withheld his hand
Dec 22-Land based and carrier operated planes attacked in large force- how large was never reported… wake’s air defenses were lost. The enemy at long last landed in force. The issue is in doubt, marines are still fighting. Two Japanese destroyers disabled.
On Dec 23rd the papers announced Japanese landed on Wake and the headline in all the Boise newspapers screamed “Navy Admits Loss of Wake”
Meanwhile the families of the Wake men received a letter stating their loved one was “missing in action”. You can imagine the state Esther was in. When Wake was captured she was overcome with worry. When her oldest daughter Beth heard of the news her small family had Christmas early and quickly got to Boise. They found Esther in an emotional mess. Esther had worked herself into such a nervous condition she was falling apart emotionally and physically. Her family pleaded with her to believe in the blessing he received in Hawaii, to believe Forrest was still alive. Esther was losing hope and faith, but her daughter Beth was able to start convincing her Forrest was alive, but most importantly that she had the load now, and she had to respond. Esther believed Forrest was alive, but she also realized the monstrous task facing her. She was overcome with fear. She felt tremendous fear for the future, fear for Forrest, fear about the debt on the farm, and most of all fear for the welfare for her eleven children at home. Cleo, Von, Donna, Floyd, Ron, Bud, Bill, Bob, Ben, Bernie and Barbra who was only 4 months old. She had these 11 children to support with no education or work experience and Esther was at a loss of how to handle situation. The children had questions, but Esther had no answers and she had a complete emotional breakdown, some speculate it may have been severe depression.
She spent so much of her time living to the radio and reading the newspapers longing to find something about Forrest and the men from Wake. Rumors were spreading of the atrocities and subhuman treatment that American prisoners were receiving in Japanese prison camps, if they even made it there.
Esther became frantic with worry. Beth doesn’t remember Esther ever being hospitalized or on medication but remembers her being irrational and her decisions being out of character so her family disabled the radio. One of Esthers sons said “The darkest time I ever remember in my life was when mother was ill. This hardy woman, who had been a rock to her own family and to countless others, found herself in a deep, weary pit.”
The family and friends decided it was best for the preschool children to be sent away to various family members and the older children to stay and take care of the farm and do everything they could to make the farm look better. Even with the help Esther still knew the bills and farm payment had to be taken care of. Forrest’s paycheck had stopped with is capture and monetary support was slow to come from the government.
With the farm, garden, chicken, cows and other animals food wasn’t the main problem, but they still needed money. A longtime friend, Emeline Hansen had become involved in selling Spencer corsets and helped Esther start selling and become a corset fitter. After many months of being out of commission with her illness she was nursed back to health with the help of her friends and local religious leaders. Esther was on her way to good health while Forrest was on his way to a prison camp in China.
But Forrest’s whereabouts where unknown to the family. Because of how the Japanese soldiers handles the dog tags of the dead and prisoners the government and all the families were clueless as to who had survived. Slowly names and locations started to be released in April 1942. It took 9 release of names for Forrests to finally to be found on July 15th 1942. Knowing the men were alive and where they were being held was incredible news for all the families. The Packard household erupted with joy the first time they heard Forrest’s name mentioned. Their next goal was to send and receive mail.
I know so far I have only interviewed spouses on this podcast but I fully recognize the sacrifice other family members make while their brothers, sisters, sons and daughters serve our country and communities. I would be completely disrespecting my own mother in law who has two sons in the military, if I didn’t at the very least acknowledge the love, worry and sacrifice of these Waiting Warriors. So, I want to read one of the first letter Forrest’s mother, Cynthia and his sister Alice wrote.
My dear son Forrest I long to hear your loving voice again and wish for the time when we can meet agin. Earl and I both wrote to you when we first learned that letters could be sent to you and would be pleased to get a reply but maybe the letter failed to reach you so we thought we would write again. A short time ago we was at Lolas on sunday and Esther and the children were also there they were all looking fine and little barbra was learning to walk she is real pretty and cute. Earl is raising a lot of beets for the sugar factory and they are doing fine. I got a letter from Dudley yesterday he asked me to send your address with it to day. I will close hoping you have kind friends to administer to your needs I pray that they lord will bless you with kind friends and protect you from every harm. Except my love and best wishes, as every your loving mother Cynthia E Packard. Please write to us if you can.
Now Alice:
With a broken yet prayerful heart I am writing these lines, trusting that God will help them find their way to you and that you will be permitted to answer. I received letter often from our folks in Idaho and Canada, they are all as well as can be expected. I am still doing missionary work although it has been difficult the last few months as I have been so badly broken up. I know you would advise me to keep on and on. If you are permitted to answer please dear brother mention names of our family that I might know it is really your writing. Forrest I most humbly ask you to forgive me of any wrong I may have committed which caused you sorrow. I have never at any time in my life ceased to love you or pray for you. May the great and powerful heavenly father answer our prayers very soon and bring you safely to the arms of your loved ones. Oh that he will protect you and bless you with everything you need is my constant prayer. Your loving sister.
Unfortunately Forrest didn’t receive any of the mail or packages his family diligently sent until some finally went through in 1944. Esther finally received her first letter from Forrest on Sept 26th 1942. What a relief it was to hear from him after nine agonizing months of worry. Esther pulled herself up by the bootstraps. She had to either give up or decide to do something with her life so she could raise her family how she wanted to, so they would grow up to be known for good both far and near. It wasn’t until she went to work that she recognized she had the ability to do what needed to be done to save the family. She was then able to get hold of things and start on a firm course of action. In the February 1948 edition of a magazine called the Ensign an article was written of Esther, it stated : Perhaps the most poignant example of this philosophy is Esther’s struggle to overcome the nervous breakdowns she experienced after her husband was capture on wake island. Esther had come away from the period with a new resolve, determined not to believe as society believed, that a woman alone could not raise sixteen children and run a farm too. She remembered the dream she and Forrest shared that when he returned from Wake Island they could pay off the farm. The children carried much of the burden at home, and she became a “spencer Corsetier, selling corsets to women door to door.
Family solidarity became Esther’s major concern so she started playing games with her children. She worked hard and played harder. She began selling corsets by going from farm to farm, sometimes having women coming to the house for fittings. When Esther became successful selling corsets her confidence sky rocketed and felt she could accomplish anything. It wasn’t long until Esther was the number one salesperson in the US. She taught her children to work hard but at the same time had a way of making anything the family did fun. It was not uncommon for the family to stay up late, even until 1 am simply playing games together. If ever there was a choice between their friends or being with their mother, they always choose her. I think above all else that speaks so much about her. She had such an incredibly daunting tasks, and was conquering, but she did so with so much love and care for her family that they took every moment they could with her. By the end of 1942 Esther was much stronger and more valiant. She had no idea when Forrest would return but she decided it was up to her to raise the family the way he would have wanted.
The years crawled along but at the same time Esther was swamped with her many responsibilites. Esther desperately missed Forrest and his spiritual strength. She recongized that many of her children, particularly boys, were at a critical age and though she wished she could rely on her husbands wisdom and strength, she had to do it on her own. Esther was not one to outwardly show her emotions though. Her son Bud has said : he didn’t realize for several years that she felt uncomfortable with the expression of concern and caring while Forrest was gone- people continually asking how she was doing.
Even though she didn’t outwardly show her emotions she was very sensitive to her children. She tried to compensate for being away so much by often bringing them a milky way candy bar to be split into 12 pieces or a penny all day sucker for each of them.
Esther also used music and games to draw her family close together. She continually played games and had fun with her children when work was done in the evenings. I honestly cannot fathom the energy all this required: all the responsibility, all the heart ache and worry, all the work, managing 11 children, and yet she still made ample time to play with them.
By the fall of 1943 Esther had only received 2 letters from Forrest. Though the Pacific Island Employee Foundation would take experts of all the letters received from the POW’s to give everyone a more detailed view on what their loved ones were experiencing, Esther still longed for her Forrest and expressed her feelings once to her close friend Josephine in a letter:
(READ LEETTER FROM PAGE 160)No I have not rep’d one word from Forrest. They claim Red Cross had definitely located him in Japan. Is that encouraging? Anything but. Had some witch told forrest (READ LETT
She longed for Forrest but she still kept on going. Since it was evident that Esther was a very good sales lady Emeline Hansen convinced Esther to open up a women’s corset and apparel shop in Boise called Packard’s Dress Shop in the spring of 1944. In the beginning it probably didn’t bring in much money, but very quickly became successful. Esther continuously counted her blessings, especially since other shops were struggling and some even closed shop. Though the family owned two cars Esther would have the older boys drop her off at the stop so she could take the bus. The older children had to take the others to school and the milk in the back of the trailer to the creamery. At nights they would all meet at the creamery, pick up the kids, the milk cans, and go home. Cleo helped at home during the day while Esther was gone. She baked eight to ten loaves of bread a day, made lunches for those in school, did the laundry and most of the housework. At the appointed time the boys would meet Esther at the bus stop, go home, and then they all worked on their chores until dark. Each had his own job to do, the strength of the family was helping one another until all the tasks were finished. I doubt that loving, hardworking, strength came to the family by accident. By the middle of 1945 Esther had become a successful business woman, a fantastic mother and had gained the admiration of family and friends. In the mean time, since Victory had been declared in Europe in May Japan was tightening their grip and Forrest was being moved from a prison camp in China to South Korea and then into the heart of Japan.
While most of the country was rejoicing over victory in Europe the Packard home didn’t change much until later in the summer as the news was full of the victories in the Pacific. Excitement in the home was building. Esther had received word that Forrest had been moved to somewhere in Japan, but nothing official had been reported. Still, because of the victory in Europe all military resources were being aimed at the pacific. It seemed only a matter of time before victory was declared in Japan. Forrest was going to be coming home to many changes, but Esther and the family were frantically working to get the farm ready to welcome him home. While he had been gone rooms had been added to the house, Dee, the oldest son who was already married had been drafted into the army; Jay had married and joined the navy; Donna married an air force pilot; and several grand children were born. Barbara, who had been born while Forrest was working on Wake Island was now four and a half. I can only imagine the emotional toll it was for both Forrest and Esther to know how much he had missed, yet they knew liberation was about to come
On August 14 1945 victory was declared in japan. The next day the emperor of Japan broadcasted a surrender speech to the entire nation, on august 21 1945 this news reached the prison camp in Niigata and yet some were still held captive. It wasn’t until September 2, 1945 when Japan officials signed the surrender on board the USS MISSOURI, and the real celebration happened when American planes dropped barrels of food and supplies that kept the men alive for several weeks until trains came to rescue them. It was an incredibly daunting task to find all the men and all the camps. There were about 90 prison camps throughout Japan and about 34000 POWS. It was finally on Sept 5th or 6th that Niigata was found and then men were divided into two groups, and traveled by cattle car train. The men knew very little of the devastation the atomic bombs had until the saw the destruction on their way to freedom. From Japan Forrest was sent on the USS OZARK to Guam, then Hawaii and then finally home, the land they loved, The United States of America.
For the families back home in Boise there was a lot of confusion but also another wave of confusion and fear. Poor records provided a lot of confusion and families who thought their loved one was alive were informed of their death. Some were able to send and receive telegrams from home before they even left Japan, but unfortunately the Packards were not. They scowered the revised lists of the dead and living for days until finally, one POW, Bill Taylor arrived home in Boise before anyone else because of his escape. He had been on with Forrest the entire time and he went to Meridian to visit Esther. The family was overcome of joy to hear Forrest was not only alive, but had been vital and influential in so many of the other POWs lives.
Finally after four and half years, Forrest and the USS Ozark landed in San Fransisco. it was a foggy as the ship approached but all of a sudden Forrest could see his Esther in the large crows and called out loudly “There’s my Queen!”
I LOVE this story. I wish I had enough time to share all that Forrest endured and the strength and kindness he showed throughout his imprisionment but Esther, what a woman. I hope you can draw on her strength and example as I do. I hope you realize that hard times happen, we all can fall and sink into deep pits because the fact of the matter is our loved ones have jobs and cause a lot of difficulty for us. But we are Warriors. We wait at home with fire and determination to hope for the best and welcome our loved ones home.
I hope you guys have a fabulous 4th of July and I’ll end with this one quote. In 1942 as Esther was recovering for her breakdown she wrote a letter to her good friend Josephine. In it she talked about how every day she would say the following to herself, and I think it’s the perfect thing for all of us to do. She would say “Now Esther, it isn’t the size of the bump that counts, its how you take it.”
Happy 4th of July and God Bless American and all you Strong Waiting Warriors.
"At first I felt guilty because I had this mindset that I’m their mother, I can’t just give them to anybody and expect them to watch them. That’s my job. And I realized I couldn’t even do my job if I wasn’t doing those basic self care things." - Hannah Mars
Today's interview is with Psychiatrist and Military Wife, Stefanie Reinold, MD.
" No woman feels like they fit in. No mom feels like they fit in anywhere because every baby is unique and so every mom is going to be unique and every experience is just totally unique. Just own that. Just own your uniqueness, your authenticity."
Check out her book Here : https://www.amazon.com/Let-Your-Heart-Out-reconnect-ebook/dp/B07BDNVLH5
Podcast: Not The Typical Mom
https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/not-typical-mom-show-stefani-reinold-life-love-business/id1332841133?mt=2&i=1000412974845
"If love is the driving force behind your actions and your thoughts and your words then you will automatically be more patient. You will yell less, you will be kinder to those around you, you will be more calm in everything you do. "
"I knew that every day he leaves the house could be the last time I see him. I know that every call he gets could be a dangerous call. But I can’t worry about the things I can’t control. I can’t worry about those things. It would tear me apart, I wouldn’t make it. So I live in the moments I have with him. Every moment. " Amber Ricks Law Enforcement Wife