11/08/2025
What It Means to Be Seasoned as a Military Spouse
When I say seasoned military spouse, I don’t mean someone who’s been in the military community for 10+ years. Being seasoned isn’t about the length of time—it’s about what you’ve been through, the challenges you’ve overcome, and the strength you’ve built along the way. Everyone can be seasoned in their own way because experience looks different for each of us.
Life as a military spouse and family brings unique challenges. Moving to new places, adjusting kids to new schools—especially if they have special needs like IEPs or 504 plans—finding the right fit for them, and watching them start over again as the “new kid.” Maybe you’ve had to leave a job and start fresh or become a stay-at-home parent by choice or circumstance. None of that makes your contribution any less valuable. You are contributing, and what you do matters.
There are so many moments that can feel overwhelming: moved-up PCS dates, delayed or last-minute orders, deployments pushed forward or postponed. Sometimes you get your orders the same day you’re supposed to report. Or a one-week field exercise turns into two. These are realities of military life that can throw us off balance. But in the midst of uncertainty, we find ways to make memories, especially for our kids—so they feel loved, safe, and connected, even when “Daddy’s leaving again.”
It’s a lot to carry: managing schedules, packing lunches, school drop-offs, appointments, household moves, and everything in between. As a wife and mother, you have so much on your plate. Feeling overwhelmed? That’s okay. There’s always room for growth.
I had the pleasure of talking with two fellow military wives recently about what growth means to us. We realized growth often comes from experience—and experience is something we gain by going through those tough moments. Once we grow, we can share what we’ve learned with others who may not know the resources or options available to them.
For example, many don’t know they should contact the housing office as soon as they get official orders. Even with soft orders, sometimes the office can work with you. Navigating the military system can feel like facing endless red tape, but sometimes someone else knows a shortcut or a tip you haven’t heard yet. Sharing that knowledge doesn’t make anyone better or worse—it’s about supporting each other.
No two military experiences are exactly alike, but many of the challenges overlap. By sharing our stories and resources, we create a caring community. Being part of the military community means community. Without it, you can feel isolated, lost, or invisible.
I know what it’s like to be the “new person” who just wants to hide in a bubble and avoid feeling unwelcome. It can be isolating. But getting out there, sharing your story, and connecting with others is so important. You have so much to offer, and your voice matters.
You are not just “a military spouse” because of your partner’s career—you are YOU. A unique, amazing individual with strength and purpose. Being a military spouse is part of your identity, but it doesn’t define all of you.
So please, engage. Communicate. Share your experiences. If you see someone struggling, offer the resources or support you know. Your knowledge might be the lifeline someone else needs.
And when frustration hits me, I remind myself: How can I make this better? How can I grow from this? How can I help someone else?
That’s what being seasoned is really about.
Till next time.
As Always,
Stay Seasoned.
