This week begins my long awaited leave period. For 11 months, I have been serving in Iraq with my unit–enjoying it but, frankly, wearing down.
A life of no days off, 24 hour operations, institutionalized food, and regimented life styles–from living quarters, to uniforms, to accountability procedures needs a pressure valve once and a while. Thankfully, it is my turn.
For the past 8 months that we have been sending people on leave, I have given a brief on having a successful EML. So, I decided today to review some one else advice.
After typing “relax on vacation” in to goggle, an article titled: Planning a Relaxing Vacation (not rocket science, but good title). The author, Mark Altman, gives four simple ideas that can be modified to explain my EML leave philosophy.
1. Think about what the purpose of the vacation is.
2. Take a vacation before your vacation.
3. Get prepared, well before your vacation.
4. Lastly, do not feel like you have to do anything on your vacation.
So how does this work in practice?
1. Think about what the purpose of the vacation is. Our purpose is to rest and spend time together and with the children.
2. Take a vacation before your vacation. I will do this as I work my way out of Iraq–typically a two or three day process, including time in Kuwait and the 6 hour flight.
3. Get prepared, well before your vacation. I will have my leave forms and calling cards all ready with my bags before leaving the unit.
4. Lastly, do not feel like you have to do anything on your vacation. This is one of the keys. So many people pressure me to do something big on leave. But for me, I have the desire to simply see the children, to play with them in their own home, and to enjoy their company. We will get out and about in the Baumholder area, but not much more than that. My goal is to spend time with Monica and the kids and show them that they are truly the priority in my life and I am more amazed with them that any of the tourist attraction in Europe. They are truly a masterpiece I want to see.
Stephanie says
I hope your travels are safe. I am happy to hear about the plans for the vacation. You can explore Europe when you are back in Germany. I think I understand your, and Monica’s, reasoning for your plans. I will be praying for the best for you all.
Mindy Scott says
Have a wonderful time! We will be praying for a quick and safe trip. Enjoy and have fun!!
Mindy and the boys
Paolo Rivera says
Have a nice, relaxing vacation. I’m soo glad to hear you’re getting a break.