My husband is a dedicated Air Force Firefighter. We met in Europe where he was stationed and I was an educator for the Army. He moved shortly after and we began a long distance relationship, meeting every few months in a different country. When my contract ended, I flew to the States with a wedding dress as my carry on. We were there for four years, where we were blessed with two beautiful babies, Maeve and Jack. However, two years ago we received orders to return to Europe.

The military has taught me many things that make us stronger as a family. You never know how long you will all be together as a family, so you need to appreciate each other while you are together. We eat dinner at the station, celebrate holidays with friends, know that it’s okay to ask for help sometimes and try to help out others. When Daddy is home for a birthday or holiday, it is extra special and we appreciate it so much more. When he is not, we don’t complain, we just pack up the dinner or birthday cake and head to the fire station. It’s a cliché military phrase, but there’s nothing more true, “home is where the military sends us.” Home is wherever my husband and children are.

This year for Mother’s Day, my husband gave me a Tiny Tags necklace with the names of my children, our initials and the phrase “my whole heart” engraved on the back. It is my absolute favorite piece of jewelry. And, like my wedding ring, I won’t take it off. Plus, it’s the one thing I don’t have to pack for the next move!

—Meghan M.