Dear Families of Echo Med,
Eight months down, four to go! When I think back to the day our soldiers left, it seems like an eternity. However, for the most part, time is going fast for me (and I hope for you, too!) Like I've said before, finding the right balance between activities and down time is what helps me survive.
Some of you have already had your soldier visit on mid-tour leave, some of you are still waiting for that, and others of you will see your loved one in spring. I hope that reunions have gone smoothly for you. The best advice I can give is to just let your soldier relax, let him/her decide how he/she wants to spend the time, and do not try to solve any problems while he/she is home (save that until the final return in Spring.)
From talking with people, it appears that I am not alone in saying that the past two months have been the most stressful of the whole deployment. In addition to the activity in Iraq, the lack of e-mail from our soldiers has made it really hard. I know that hearing from Jason always lifted my spirits, and without that communication I�ve definitely been more on edge. For all of our sakes, I hope that this situation gets remedied soon. In the mist of it though, keep in mind that there are units that have had no e mail communication at all with their soldiers. We have been lucky!
Finally, remember that as tough as this has been on you and as tough as the separation may be over the holidays, it is harder on our soldiers. Keep supporting them with prayer, positive snail mail, phone conversations, and e mail (when it starts again.) Try not to complain to your soldier. They need to be able to focus on their mission and do it without worrying about home. If you need to complain, try to find a friend who feels the same way as you.
Check out all the events on our website and continue to watch for e-mails from me. May you find happiness and many things for which to be thankful throughout the holiday season.
Sincerely,
Kathy Sepanic |
