I’m going to make this story short for two reasons. One: Most of you reading this have already been through the moving process. Two: Every branch of the military is different. So I don’t over load you with info that may not be useful in your situation.
My Story:
When learning we were moving to Okinawa I was 9 months pregnant and my hormones were all over the place. I started out strong. Planing in my head what the next couple of months would look like and how I would get everything done. When the busyness of my mind finally calmed, then reality hit and the tears came. Not only did I have this life changing event ahead of me, I was leaving my family and friends along with the comforts of being in the States.
Packing up was challenging. Selling half the stuff in our house was hard. Saying goodbye to family and friends was sad.
The plane ride went smoother then I thought with a 3 year old, a 6 month old and a husband. We arrived at night. The darkness made Okinawa feel all the more foreign to me. We had a little over a week in the hotel and then it was off to our new tower home. And here we shall stay for the next three years.
My general advice for anyone inbound:
1. Stay organized
2. Find out who to contact (Medical, outbound office, sponsor)
3. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or ask for help
4. Double check everything
5. Never assume anything, always ask
Everyone’s move is different and there is bound to be some drama along the way. Stay positive, remember to take long deep breaths, and take it one moment at a time.