Family & hometime, does it get easier after you get some time in

As a wife, here's my 2 cents. For 22 years my husband and I have navigated the being apart waters. First he was military, then with DOE and then the State Dept and now trucking. Making a marriage work and thrive takes daily effort no matter what the physical distance is.

You both need to be on the same page regarding the kids, pets, household finances and schedules. You also need ground rules for fights an honor them so you minimize simmering resentment or frustrations.

Humor is a serious tool as well. I've made a point to note one funny thing to share with him every day and he does the same. Photos are a lifeline to staying connected and feeling like you're each a part of the other's life even when yourey apart for months. He sends me at least one photo wherever he is every day and I send a photo from home.

Home time is when we get together with friends and do couple stuff - we have a date night once a month where we eat out, grab ice cream sundaes and maybe see a movie or play mini golf etc. That time is sacred and it serves as something we can plan together and look forward to when heshon the road. It is critical to maintain that inclusivity in the shared life no matter how long you are apart.