March 2020

Thank you for all the letters in the AOR. I actually run the post office here and my team is convinced I am part of some mail mafia. I also met a postal federal agent/investigator who taught me that the mafia and cartels use USPS for some of their work...the more you know! Seriously though, it's fun to keep in touch, hear how each one of you is doing and lift you up in prayer.

I wanted to share the top 5 Liz lessons of my deployment thus far.

1. Disregard fashion during dust storms. The wind and dust are so strong no one can see you let alone care about your ridiculous goggles or gaiters.

2. Duct tape any 220V plugs on your transformers...unless you want to fry expensive electronic devices...RIP air purifier #1.

3. Vitamin Gummies are a food group. Seriously, has anyone had the apple cider vinegar Goli? I have no self-control and already ate my 6-month supply...

4. Nothing can stop the US Air Force....except for lightning in 5 and COVID-19. We are on "base arrest" and people are getting creative with their downtime. Dirt bobsledding anyone?

5. Haters are gonna hate! Proverbs 9:8. My commander made a decision that ended up all over the internet. People with only a sliver of the info are quick to comment and hate, but she did her homework, had support from her leadership and endured the negative comments. I just published my first article and was worried about negative comments. At the end of the day, when we choose to be "in the arena" (Teddy Roosevelt) we will face haters.

Please let me know what lessons you are learning and as always, how I can pray! Lots of love,

Liz

What does deployment teach you?

Deployment teaches resilience, adaptability, gratitude for the ordinary, and how much strength comes from your people and your purpose.

How do families stay strong during deployment?

By keeping routines, communicating honestly, leaning on a support network, and giving each other grace through the hard stretches.

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