The First One

[Gia8448]

Hey all,

I have been on this site for a few months now but don't really post much. I am in need of something though. DF just left a few days ago. It's our first deployment and I am a wreck. I find myself crying out of nowhere in the streets, at home, at work, during meetings, in the store. I have luckily been able to talk to him for the past few days since he left but tonight I think we had our last conversation. It's hard because I know that he is depressed right now but I'm trying to encourage him and try to keep my sadness away when it's really just overwhelming. I try to hide my crying voice when I talk to him but he knows.

I have had a lot of support from my friends and family but none of them can really understand what this feels like. Any suggestions for the first deployment?

[*MarineBug*]

Why would that have been your last phone conversation?

[blinkybear]

Best advice is get yourself active. Take a cooking class, join a sport, go to the gym. Low days are to be expected...hang in there.

[**Jamie**]

Its ok to have bad days, but you really need to try to not let them overcome your life. If you do, you're in for one long deployment. Keep busy, continue your routine as if he were here. The days will go alot faster if you're not always down in the dumps.

[Gia8448]

I meant like last everyday conversation where I know that I can call him at any time or I can expect his call at any moment. I have no idea when I'll hear from him now.

[*MarineBug*]

Well, most basis are set up with great communication A lot of times you will get into a routine. Most places have internet in their rooms now to that they can purchase. Some even buy cell phones to use over there and you can get an international calling cars to contact him. There are LOTS of ways to call, email, chat, webcam now

[Lynnette1990]

However, I know exactly what you are going through. When I knew that would be our last phone call for a while until he was settled, I broke down.
It gets better. Just have him get internet in his room if he can and invest in webcams if you haven't already.

[Gia8448]

Thanks ladies, I know it will get easier once we establish a "deployment routine" if that's even possibl . It's just so new and I don't know what to really expect or not sure how to deal with the emotions yet but I'm sure I'll get the hang of it at some point. Trying to stay STRONG! And just going on this website and reading everyone else's situation is very helpful. I'm getting good ideas and feeling hopeful. Thanks again!

[RAWRa]

My fiance just left a few days ago too. Feel free to PM me if you want to talk.

[mrdanows]

I'm on my first deployment too, and we're about 4 months in. I remember for about the first 3 weeks or so I didn't do anything. I cried a lot and I also hardly ever got out of bed. It will get easier, I can promise you that. Just like the other girls said, keep yourself busy. I got really lucky with communication on this deployment, but that is something that will come with time and it will work itself into a routine. Hang in there girl!