Plan of Action

From 21th November
One of the things I am learning is who is safe to turn to and who isn't.
And while G-d has been gracious with whom He has send, there has been a few times I have been unwise what I have shared. By no fault of their own, many just can't handle the waves of emotion and I have to respect that. I know who I can turn to and who I cannot.
I plan to meet with Rabbi Joe if possiable after the holidays. I am also waiting a call from Command .
I plan to go away today and do some writing and then work on Mark's quilt. I will have a cup of Starbucks and a scone.
I will dance.

Limit television coverage related to your loved one's duty . Watching repeated media coverage of conflicts or wars that a family member is involved in could be emotionally draining. Set a limit for News Coverage and then find something fun.

Keep track of the time for which a loved one will be gone. "I (Laini) keep a calendar with smiley faces counting down to the day mark comes home.
Create a special photo album or scrapbook for children . I have begun taking pictures; The Bazaar last week, Thankgiving tomorrow, Hanukkah, etc.
Coping with stress and anxiety when a loved one has been deployed There are several stages of emotion you may go through when a loved one has been deployed. When they first are informed about a deployment, many people begin anticipating the extended absence of a loved one, which may cause feelings of confusion, anger, resentment, or depression. If you experience any of these emotions you can:
talk to your loved one about your feelings
work to create opportunities for lasting memories during the separation
involve your entire family in preparing for the deployment
When the time of departure draws near, some people may begin to feel detached or withdrawn. Feelings of hopelessness, impatience, and decreased emotional or physical intimacy are common reactions to an impending deployment. When a loved one leaves, familymembers may go through a difficult adjustment period. An increased sense of independence and freedom may be countered by periods of sadness and loneliness. If you have trouble adjusting to the absence of a spouse or loved one you can:
Cultivate new skills or hobbies . Take a class or start a project you've always wanted to do. It's important to continue personal growth when a loved one has been deployed. Open yourself to new experiences and friendships
Keep a journal . Many people find that writing down their thoughts and feelings is comforting when they are separated from a loved one.
Offer empathy and support to others . Remember that you aren't alone. Find a support group or plan events with other families who are experiencing the same thing.
Seek support from your faith community. Many people find comfort and solace from their faith communities during difficult times.
Do something special for yourself and your family. Rent a movie or cook a meal that your loved one wouldn't necessarily enjoy. Plan fun outings with children during free time.
Seek professional counseling . If you feel like you can't cope with the absence of a loved one, contact your health care provider or employee assistance program (EAP) to find a counselor.
Ignore rumors . Many people have trouble dealing with limited information about the whereabouts and activities of a loved one during deployment. It may be difficult to ignore rumors or gossip, but it's important to rely on official sources of information when a family member has been deployed.