Our PCS coincides with the start of the new year, what a great time to hop on those resolutions, right? But I think a PCS, regardless of season, is always a good time to set new goals and start anew.
Our family was very active while in Hawaii, with scouts, school and community projects. But I felt like we lacked time at home, together. In 2014, after cross-country flight, we awoke to cold mornings and colder nights, stuck inside far from the Hawaiian sun we learned to love. What better time to build in regular family game nights or read together by the fireplace?
At our old station we had lots of grownup friends but our time with them was spent organizing children's events. Once that ball gets rolling, it's hard to jump out of the way. You become the "go to" people for a lot and we all know it can be hard to say no.
My husband and I have made a pact to be active here but to carve out time for just the adults as well. Last week when I was asked to be a scout leader I politely declined and offered my services in a smaller role. Success, already!
And as much as I miss heading to the beach several times a week to let my kids burn some energy, it burned mine too. I was left moving several huge boxes of craft supplies that I never took the time to turn into completed crafts.
I'm not going to lie, it was the same box of supplies that was dragged from the duty station before Hawaii to the island. Well, no more. Mama is going to get her craft on! I have replaced just a few hours a week of running from activity to activity to stay home and spend time with me, doing what I want. Crazy concept, right?
The next time you PCS is a great time to reassess how you are using your time and what you want to accomplish. We all hate to leave behind the lives we have built but rather than mourn those losses, celebrate the opportunity to recognize a job well done and move on to the next phase.
Take time to decide carefully how you want your days to be spent. More time focused on running and exercise? More community roles? Heck, more sit-down dinners at home? Your slate is open and hopefully, your calendar is too. Take advantage of that to reach your goals at your new duty station.
