What is it like moving across the country?

[Barbara B]

This is a good question, dear one. I'm glad you asked it.

first of all, not only thank you to your dad for his service to our country - but an even BIGGER thank you to YOU and your family - who must follow in order that your dad may serve. You're quite the young adult, my dear.

Ask your dad if you can speak with your base chaplain and/or the office of dependents (I don't remember the exact name) for some first-hand tips on what it's like to move across country.

In the meantime, it's really important to keep a good attitude. There will be times between now and June that you will be sad, or angry, or excited, or overjoyed. That's normal. But keep a positive attitude no matter what. Fortunately, you understand that your dad's job is what keeps a roof over your head - and that he's not moving just to be selfish.

Yes, this will be an adventure. You will say goodbye to people, places and things that you have known for nearly 10 years. That will be the sad stuff.

On the other hand, you will have an opportunity to see and do things that your friends in VA may never have the chance to do and see. You will have the opportunity to make new friends - different kinds of friends from your early childhood playmates - but just as near and dear; and just as important to you.

The cool thing about living in this day and age is that there is electronic communication available. When I moved from Richmond, VA to Champaign, IL, the Internet was just beginning. Videoconferencing was a dream in someone's eye. Facebook was not even on the horizon. cell phones were the size of briefcases (they were called bag phones then) and looked like walkie-talkies from WWII. Now you can Skype with your buddies, keep in touch with social media and cell phones fit into a pocket. That means you can keep in touch with those whom you cherish.

But the most important thing is your attitude. Keep that - even when the sky is darkest. You're right - it's an adventure!

best of luck, kiddo.