We are a civilian family now. For me that means comfort, safety, togetherness, gatherings. While my husband comes home every night, it was not long ago that he was not able to. He was aboard the USS Reuben James, stationed out of Pearl Harbor. We endured many times away from each other. I can't imagine what it was like for my husband and the men and women with him to be away from those that they loved during the holiday season. Keeping that in mind, I got into the habit of putting together care packages. It's that time of year again to start thinking about putting together those Holiday gifts for those that can't be home. No matter how big or small, every gesture of kindness and holiday cheer are much appreciated by those who receive them.
Here are some things I have sent:
gum, peanuts, comedy books, pictures, movies, cds, chapstick, candy, cookies, nutrition bars. Avoid chocolate or anything you think might melt easily.
My sister in law is a teacher and all the kids in her class wrote letters to the ship. Some included pictures, stories or questions they had about the ship. This turned out to be a great learning experience for the kids.
If you don't know anyone who is deployed, there are various websites that can connect you with someone. Here are a few that I have found:
http://www.healthytroops.com/index.htm
http://www.treatsfortroops.com/
http://www.carepackageproject.com/
Although I have not used any of these sites, I have found them to all have information on sponsoring troops. If anyone has any other sites they would like me to post, please let me know.
Good websites to refer to:
http://hqdainet.army.mil/mpsa/
http://www.usps.com/supportingourtroops/
Remember those who volunteer to keep us safe.
Freedom is not Free!
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