Lauren Bower
Mountain Home AFB, ID
The husband and I met in Okinawa, Japan, and continued our love story across the globe here to Idaho, where we are now stationed. To be brief, our family is most simply described by "One Girl, Boy Crazy...Literally." My awesome husband, Joe, and I have 4 amazing BOYS - Thomas (1), Riley James (3), and identical twins Landon and Logan (9). There is never a dull moment for the Bowers.
What do you like about military life?
I grew up an Air Force brat, so it's really the only lifestyle that I've ever known. I like the different experiences I've endured as well as those that I know lay ahead in our future.
What do you not like so much?
The many variables that make owning anything besides pencils or erasable pens realistic for planners. Such as the times orders drop short notice, then cancel, or the unpredictability of what time my husband's roll call will be for even just a week ahead, how one week swings means he goes in at 1400 and the next he goes in at 2000. Trying to keep a family strong and together while being unable to rely or plan on daddy's presence and/or help...that's what I don't like so much. Of course, the distance from our family is hard too. It's tough missing graduations, reunions, weddings, and sometimes even funerals.
Do you have special talents/hobbies? How do you spend your time?
Blaming my boy crazy household, I am half "tomboy" half "beauty addict." I love to get down working on cars or playing volleyball on rare occasions, but I also love playing with all my makeup beforehand too! My time is spent mostly on trying to keep the household together, but I get to catch the occasional mommy time too.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
Hopefully, planning a soon-to-be retirement for the hubby and closer to our loving family!
What's the most rewarding part of your life?
Of course, my family. But also the feeling of being part of something bigger than myself. I'm not the active duty member, but I pride myself in giving my best to support my man who wears the uniform. We support each other and it's so rewarding.
What's the most challenging part?
Holding it together when everything can seem out of place or uncertain, having to brave the tears of our "see you later moments," and having to make household decisions on my own can make life challenging, or I'd prefer to call it "interesting."
How would you say being part of a military family shapes you?
I've learned to remind myself (often) that everything will work out, that everything will be okay. I've become open-minded more to change and adjustments, I'm constantly learning to keep faith and love hard, and I'm always reminded that family isn't just blood.
What has surprised you about military life?
I'm often reminded that the military can make for a small world. I've reunited with old classmates in Turkey, Florida, Illinois, England, and even Idaho.
What advice or encouragement can you share?
Have faith. Be open to change. Be ready to adjust. Make him your best friend. Love unconditionally.
