Here at VoiceQuilt, we’re big fans of military families. We’re also big fans of caregivers in general. With that in mind, we’d like to share some sage advice from a VoiceQuilt gift giver who has experienced multiple deployments at each duty station.
1.) When you need a break, take a break. Separate yourself from the situation. Lean on a neighbor or friend or call the chain of command and request information on how to get assistance.
2.) Socialize with parents in the same situation. Take turns hosting a potluck supper. The kids can play and interact while you connect with someone going through a similar experience.
3.) Try to find some positives. Remember that military families can take advantage of free services Operation Purple (summer camp) and Operation Kid Comfort (quilts). Contact your local Family Readiness program or other ACS programs to see about additional free services that might be helpful.
There’s one more novel idea. Ask the deployed family member to cheer you on.
Last week, a military family asked us to set up a VoiceQuilt for their son, Rick. Rick wants to record voice messages for his fiancée back in the U.S. while he is stationed in Afghanistan! Now, that’s a very romantic angle that we hadn’t ever considered. We’ve often had families here at home recording “thinking of you” messages for soldiers serving overseas. (See the last message listed here, “Mike”).
We never cease to be amazed by the creativity of our gift givers.
1.) When you need a break, take a break. Separate yourself from the situation. Lean on a neighbor or friend or call the chain of command and request information on how to get assistance.
2.) Socialize with parents in the same situation. Take turns hosting a potluck supper. The kids can play and interact while you connect with someone going through a similar experience.
3.) Try to find some positives. Remember that military families can take advantage of free services Operation Purple (summer camp) and Operation Kid Comfort (quilts). Contact your local Family Readiness program or other ACS programs to see about additional free services that might be helpful.
There’s one more novel idea. Ask the deployed family member to cheer you on.
Last week, a military family asked us to set up a VoiceQuilt for their son, Rick. Rick wants to record voice messages for his fiancée back in the U.S. while he is stationed in Afghanistan! Now, that’s a very romantic angle that we hadn’t ever considered. We’ve often had families here at home recording “thinking of you” messages for soldiers serving overseas. (See the last message listed here, “Mike”).
We never cease to be amazed by the creativity of our gift givers.
Photo courtesy Left-Hand on Flickr.
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