Summer did not choose the military life; she opted for love instead. Everything that is now a part of her life results from her decision to prioritize love over everything else. Francia Gonzalez describes life as an army wife, all the emotions that come with it, and the changes her life has seen. Although Francia has only been married for three months and the couple dated for less than a year, the couple has learned a lot in this short journey.
Being in love with someone who belongs to forces does mean days or sometimes even months away from home and family. Even when she penned her story, she included how the couple was seven time zones away. The distance might be more than 6,000 miles, but the hearts remain connected. Despite being married for over three months, the couple has physically spent only 10 days together.
Summer mentions how great strength and a unique perspective are required to keep things going smoothly as the distance takes over on some days, and all you need is your partner.
When the couple decided to get married, they knew how all this would be a part of their lives, but they were not prepared for it to come this soon. A few days after marriage, Summer did not hear from her husband for two weeks. There were no messages, no calls, just prayers keeping each other safe. She remembers how she thought she would lose her mind, not hearing from him, but being surrounded by her loved ones, especially wives of other military officers, gave her hope and strength as she knew someone understood how she felt.
Not only this, but as Summer had to spend most of her days alone, she knew she had to find new hobbies, work, or build a routine that kept her occupied for most days. Thus, she always chooses activities that her husbands love to see her doing, whether as simple as catching up on her favourite shows or travelling to their favourite hiking spot. Not just this, Summer mentions keeping her phone by her side 24/7. Every time the phone rings, her heart screams, hoping it would be him on the other side, thus, as communication is the heart of it all.
The couple does send cute reminders, messages to comfort, and updates from their daily lives, but on some days, silence takes over and drowns the heart.
On days when Summer misses the love of her life more than usual, she lies down all curled up in his army jacket to feel his presence and scent, and also visits his family to check up and spend quality time.
She lets her heart miss him as it is proof of their love and how much she needs his presence with her. Above all, Summer knows that she chose this for herself. Thus, she not only proudly takes the title of being an ‘army wife’ but, with great courage, captains the ship when he is away for days. Summer lets her love win on days when the silence and sorrow of the distance want to take over. What else is it if not pure strength?
Summer has also made the most significant decision of her life: to move overseas. That way, at least she will be near him. For that, she had to sell her home and close her belongings, which she did. She would do anything for love, as he is all she needs! Summer also reminds the courageous woman of all officials to stay strong, and each passing day is a reminder that they will again be close soon; one step closer every day.
