We have been in the Marine Corps for almost 10 years and in that time we have moved 7 times, 6 of which were in the first 3 years (believe me when I tell you there are women who have moved more and some with less time between duty stations). So, I have had a lot of time to contemplate the pros and cons of unpacking and settling, particularly when I know another move is inevitable, and often only a short time away.
One of the beautiful things about military life is that someone has been there, done that and is glad to share her experience and wisdom. Much of what I do to embrace, enjoy and thrive in this crazy lifestyle has come on the recommendation of a dear friend, an acquaintance and sometimes a perfect stranger. Years ago someone told me to unpack the boxes. It sounded ludicrous. We were leaving in 6 months. Why on earth would I unpack an entire house, bother hanging anything on the walls if I was just going to have to do it all over again a few months later?!?! She had to be crazy. So, I didn't unpack...for a few weeks.
I soon realized that it felt as if the walls were closing in. I was so tired of looking at boxes, not to mention the "unsettled" feeling that it left. It made me grumpy, and it didn't create much of a "home" feeling for myself or Robert. So, with some reluctance I unpacked the boxes, hung pictures on the wall and decorated. We had our first home. A few months later I would repeat it again, and again, and again. The repetition became fun. It was an adventure to find the perfect place for everything and to turn a house into a home. It allowed us to have a "home" no matter where we were, or how long we were going to be there. It gave us a safe haven to return to at the end of the day, and a place we knew was ours.
After 6 years in the same home we found ourselves moving again. Two short days after the arrival of our household goods and the start of the settling, we were notified that base housing was available and we'd be moving again in a month. Despite the quick turnaround, and after much contemplation, we decided to settle anyway. At least for the month this was going to be our home. We need to be comfortable, have access to our "things" and feel settled...for everyone's mental well being :)
