I always had soldiers and leaders with Stay at home wives and I was one before I got in the Army for a year. My kids were young then and I only had two. I did not have internet or have resources like SAHM's have now. I had my family close by and they helped tremendously.

My husband at the time was in the Army. I admired that so much. I was always fascinated with the military. My Dad served in the Navy during Vietnam and my Grandfather in the Army during the Korean Conflict. I have numerous family members that served, but I never knew about the lifestyle and what I would become by joining.

In high school I had good grades and groomed myself for college. I had great entrance exam scores and had my sights set on a good school. It all changed when I had my first child my senior year. Recruiters had always called me but people had always told me I was better off going to college. Well I graduated early, had my daughter and went to a local University. I struggled and eventually went to work full time, but the military was deep in my mind. After years of working and another child I made up my mind and joined.

It was an experience of a lifetime. I learned so much and became a stronger person. I never knew about this new world of the SAHM. I have been a SAHM for a year now. It has been great. I love being around my kids. It has had it hard times but I love it. My military training has helped a great deal. I can organize, manage my time and stay up a full 24 hours for baby duty. I have a new Chain of Command. The Kids are in charge now!!!