Navigating Motherhood and Military Life Abroad: My Journey as a Military Spouse

Being a mommy of three beautiful girls while also being a military spouse has been an incredible journey filled with challenges, adventure, and the importance of a strong support system. As I transitioned from a military spouse to a veteran spouse, I had the unique experience of giving birth to two of my daughters far away from home, in Germany. This blog chronicles my experiences, the invaluable support I received from the military community, and a few interesting tidbits about giving birth in a different country.

Chapter 1: The Overseas Birth Experience The excitement and apprehension of giving birth in a foreign land was an emotional rollercoaster. Stationed in Germany, a country known for its efficiency and precision, I found myself navigating the German healthcare system during the most vulnerable moments of my life. The military base lacked a hospital, which led me to deliver my precious girls in a German hospital. Driven by a mix of excitement and fear, I embarked on this unique journey.

Chapter 2: A Lifeline of Support In the midst of uncertainty, the military community became my lifeline. A dear friend, also a fellow Marine, stood by my side, providing unwavering support during labor and delivery. She created a thoughtful mommy bag filled with snacks and essentials, an act of kindness that eased my anxieties. Having someone who understood the military lifestyle and its challenges was immensely reassuring.

Chapter 3: Birth Amidst a Global Pandemic As fate would have it, my second daughter's birth coincided with the onset of a global pandemic. While my supportive friend couldn't be present physically, her unwavering support remained steadfast. My husband and I faced the challenge of navigating childbirth during COVID-19 restrictions. Once settled, our friend's presence provided comfort, reminding us of the strength that comes from the bonds formed within the military community.

Chapter 4: Fascinating Insights About Giving Birth Abroad My overseas birthing experience came with a few surprises and unique aspects. One fascinating aspect was the frequency of ultrasounds. In Germany, I underwent ultrasounds every four weeks, a higher frequency compared to the norm. This practice, especially beneficial for high-risk pregnancies, was a testament to the thoroughness of German healthcare.

Chapter 5: Unexpected Souvenirs - German Birth Certificates A quirk of giving birth in Germany resulted in my daughters having German birth certificates. These unexpected souvenirs of their overseas beginnings carry a touch of international flair. The process of applying for their social security numbers and passports, while taking longer due to their origin from the States, highlighted the bureaucratic intricacies involved.

Chapter 6: Dual Citizenship Dreams An intriguing possibility emerged from our overseas adventures. While my daughters aren't German citizens, they have the option to apply for dual citizenship once they turn 18. This unique opportunity allows them to embrace their international roots, potentially studying in Germany and experiencing the country that played a part in their early lives.

Chapter 7: A Sweet Note About Gestational Diabetes Test Juice Amidst the medical procedures and paperwork, a light-hearted discovery awaited - the surprisingly good taste of the juice used for the gestational diabetes test. Finding a silver lining in an otherwise routine medical test added a touch of humor to the journey.

As I reflect on my journey as a veteran spouse, giving birth to my beautiful girls in a foreign land, I am reminded of the strength that comes from the military community. Navigating the challenges of motherhood and military life abroad is a testament to the resilience that defines us. The unique experiences, unexpected souvenirs, and lasting friendships have enriched my journey and shaped my perspective on what it means to be a mother, a military spouse, and a veteran.