Let’s be honest, being part of a military family can make special occasions feel more like logistical operations than the celebrations that they really should be. With loved ones often miles away, serving their country, turning birthdays and anniversaries into memorable events requires a little more than it does for the average family.
With that in mind, let’s take a look at a few things you can do to make those special occasions special no matter what.
Virtual Party: Bring the Celebration Online
Throw a virtual party. Set up a video call with family and friends, decorate your space, and maybe even have a theme. Military family party tip: camouflage attire is optional. It’s a way to bring everyone together, even if you’re spread across different time zones.
Synced Movie Nights: Pass the Remote (Control)
Thanks to the wonders of modern technology, watching a movie together remotely is as easy as pie (and who doesn’t love pie?). Choose a film that matches the tone of the special occasion, whether it is one of these movies to celebrate Easter, a cheesy Christmas film or a date night chick flick, hit play at the same time, and chat or video call during the movie. It’s like being in the same room, minus the popcorn fights.
Care Packages: Happiness Delivered
Send a care package filled with their favourite treats, a heartfelt letter, and maybe some silly surprises. It’s like sending a box of sunshine and smiles. Bonus points if you include that homemade cake – just make sure it’s packed well unless you want to start a new trend of cake crumbs.
Recorded Messages: Love in a Digital Bottle
Create a video or voice message. Whether it’s a simple ‘Happy Birthday’ or a full-blown serenade, a recorded message can be played over and over. It’s like a love letter, but with more tech and less ink.
Shared Online Activities: Bonding in the Digital Realm
Engage in an online activity together. This could be a virtual tour of a museum, an online game, or even a cooking challenge where you both make the same recipe and compare results. It’s competitive and collaborative, like all good military operations.
Plan for Future Celebrations: Anticipation is Half the Fun
Plan a future celebration for when you’re reunited. Sometimes, the promise of a belated celebration can be just as exciting as the day itself. It’s like having a bonus special occasion – two for the price of one!
Personalised Countdowns: The Excitement Builds…
Create a personalised countdown for the next time you’ll be together. It could be a physical calendar, a digital countdown, or even a creative project. Every day that passes is a day closer to being reunited.
Local Celebrations: Bring the Party to Your Doorstep
If one of you is away, the one at home can still celebrate with local friends and family. It’s like being an ambassador for the absent party-goer – plus, you get double the cake.
Shared Playlists: Groove Together, Apart
Create and share playlists. Music can be incredibly bonding, and sharing songs that mean something to you both keeps you connected. It’s like sending a mixtape, but without the hassle of rewinding tapes with a pencil.
Being a military family certainly has its challenges, but with the above ideas and a whole lot of love, special occasions can still be, well, special.