10 Things You’ll Experience When Your Partner is Deployed

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When your significant other is deployed, life takes on a whole new rhythm. I haven’t seen any military movies for a while, not because I don’t love them, but because they hit too close to home. My husband, whom I affectionately refer to as “Pilot” due to his impressive skills in the air, is currently stationed overseas, leaving me to navigate the ups and downs of deployment life. Here are ten things that you might find resonate with your own experience:

1. Every Noise Becomes a Threat: With kids and pets at home, every creak and groan at night can send your heart racing. When you’re alone, the shadows can feel menacing. You may find yourself armed with a baseball bat, ready to confront what turns out to be your mischievous dog who has decided to redecorate your living room—by knocking over the Christmas tree.
2. DIY Plumbing Adventures: At some point, you might have to become a makeshift handyman. Maybe it’s a leaky toilet that you’ve successfully managed to fix with superglue. Whatever it is, you’ll figure it out. Deployment teaches you resilience in unexpected ways.
3. Public Meltdowns: Kids have a knack for choosing the worst moments to have epic tantrums. You may be juggling multiple care package items when your child decides it’s time to express their displeasure. The judgmental looks from bystanders can be brutal, but hey, parenting is messy.
4. Intrusive Questions: People often mean well, but the questions can be exhausting. “How do you do it?” is a common one, and sometimes you just want to say, “I don’t know, but I’m doing my best!” It’s okay to get creative with your answers just to avoid the awkwardness.
5. Crafting Skills You Didn’t Know You Had: Whether you love it or hate it, you’ll probably find yourself getting crafty to create care packages filled with goodies for your spouse. Glitter and glue become your new best friends, and you end up channeling your inner Martha Stewart—even if your previous art skills were limited to stick figures.
6. Late-Night Emergencies: When the clock strikes 4 AM and you’re convinced you’re facing a medical crisis, you might find yourself making a trip to the emergency room. It could just be a nasty stomach bug, but when you’re alone, it’s easy for your mind to go to the worst-case scenario.
7. Empty Promises from Friends: Friends often pledge their support when your partner departs, but when you really need help, they seem to vanish. Expect to navigate challenges alone, though you might see them return just in time for the homecoming festivities.
8. Winter Woes: If you’re in a snowy region, expect to deal with extreme weather conditions alone. You’ll be shoveling snow and de-icing vehicles while managing your own health. Just when you feel like you can’t take any more, Mother Nature throws a blizzard your way.
9. The Importance of Video Calls: Maintaining a connection becomes vital. You may develop an unusual fondness for video chats, even if your bedhead is less than glamorous. Those late-night calls can be the highlight of your day, no matter how tired you feel.
10. Faith and Patience: Sometimes communication lapses can stretch for days. The uncertainty can be daunting, but you learn to find comfort in the silence, trusting that your loved one is safe. It’s a lesson in patience and faith, and you grow stronger with each passing day.

As I navigate through this deployment, I know there will be countless lessons ahead. From unexpected plumbing issues to late-night emergency runs, each experience is a part of this journey. And while I miss my partner dearly, I’m grateful for the love we share and the strength we find in each other.

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In summary, navigating life during your partner’s deployment can be chaotic, emotional, and at times, downright hilarious. But through all the challenges, you’ll find resilience, creativity, and a deeper connection to the one you love.