“He’s been out of the reach of my fingertips for 12 hours, 2 minutes, and 36, 37, 38 seconds… but, who’s counting, right? Rest easy, America. There are still amazing men in uniform willing to protect your freedoms. Even if it means missing the birth of their only child, walking away from a wife whose health is not up to par, giving up all of the comforts of home for 8 months, and looking death head-on.

“Enjoy your moments. Do not let stupid petty immaterial things get between you and yours. Cherish every second. There are those of us who will go without for much too long, for your sake.”

In honor of Stress Awareness Month (April), I wanted to share what I do to cope with stress.  I almost wrote “alleviate stress” there, but let’s be realistic – I’m the wife  of a combat grunt Marine. There’s no possible way to completely alleviate stress.

I write.

And write and write and write.  Did I mention I write? Seriously, my house is full of journals, lists, and the ramblings of a woman who would appear to be almost certifiable.

When I face moments like the one pictured above – the moment he gets on a bus and disappears into an undisclosed location, a combat zone, for an unknown amount of time – the only thing I can do to tackle the situation head on is write.

It helps me. And, apparently, it’s helped others. Civilians, who have almost no idea of what it’s like for us at home, have thanked me time and time again for sharing my moments.  Other military spouses have thanked me for showing them they’re not the only ones dealing with this crazy mix of emotions. But, more importantly, it HELPS ME.

I have a crafty side.

I say that, tongue-in-cheek, waiting for a giggle from the crowd, but if you know me, you will just nod and smile.  Give me a piece of paper and some time and I will go on an amazing journey with my heart and hands.  Cards, wall hangings, invitations, and scrapbooking, are a few of the always present projects on my desk.  And then there’s my new favorite – an Explosion Box. I create often for clients, and enjoy that immensely.  But, more often than not, I beat a piece of paper into submission because it HELPS ME.

Life is just a journey made up of moments, but you only get to do it once. We all face situations – especially military spouses – that are packed full of stress and we can’t do a thing to alleviate it.

But, how do you cope? What do you do that HELPS YOU? A good portion of our lives are dedicated to helping others around us, but make sure to help yourself, too.