I didn’t want to write about JRTC. I think that’s why I haven’t gotten around to posting this week. I mean, really, it’s already the main focus of all my video blogs since he left, so why write about it in my blog as well? Isn’t that overkill?

But the thing is, it’s on my mind. It’s practically all I can think about! My obsession with the topic has left me with little choice. Either address it, and get my feelings out, or keep on avoiding writing, since I can think of nothing else. Little choice, indeed!’

Joint Readiness Training Center

For those of you who don’t want to look it up, here’s the gist. JRTC is pretty much pre-deployment training. According to Wikipedia, “JRTC is focused on improving unit readiness by providing highly realistic, stressful, joint and combined arms training.” It simulates a deployment, basically, putting the unit through its paces. Afterwards, the unit is supposed to assess and train further before deployment, trying to correct their mistakes and weaknesses.

It’s a three-week process of set-up, training, and tear-down. And it means my soldier/hubby/best friend is gone for almost a month.

How I See It

The truth is that I’m okay with this training, especially if it’s going to help keep my husband and his unit alive when they do deploy. And in some ways, we wives look at it as preparation for us, too. A small taste of what it will be like when we’re alone for a whole year rather than three weeks.

That’s the rational side.

On the other hand, it’s really hard. As short a separation as it is, in the grand scheme of things, three weeks feels incredibly long! I’d go so far as to say it’s probably harder for those of us who are newlyweds! This is by far the longest he and I have been apart since the wedding.

I miss him. I’m lonely. I haven’t cried as much as I expected to, but I also haven’t had much motivation to do anything (writing, especially). And it has only been a week so far!

By the way, if you try to come kill me, thinking I’m an easy target with hubby off and training, you will have to reckon with my guard kitty. Oh, and my neighbors. And all the guards on post. So I wouldn’t recommend it. :-)