It Isn’t the Place, But the People

As I write this, we’re in the beginning of yet another PCS season. So, as I try and tell you a little about myself, please bear with me as my brain struggles to process everything! My name is Kathleen Palmer, and I’ve been a military spouse for 21 years.

We’ve moved 13 times (about to hit the 14 this summer), and as I think back over the years and reflect on how many times I’ve been asked, “What is your favorite duty station?” I find myself answering, “It isn’t the place, but the people.” That sounds vague and dismissive, but I truly believe the best thing about this crazy, unique life is the other people on the journey with us.

My journey as a military spouse started on a soccer field near Fort Polk, Louisiana, when a soldier not only stole the ball from me, but my heart as well. Since that day, he’s taken me to so many amazing places such as Korea, Germany, and Texas and allowed me to take on different roles. I’m a teacher, coach, FRG leader, writer, and finally the most important role I have ever held, parent.

Matt and I added two beautiful sisters to our family in 2007 through foster care, and our lives have never been the same.

We’re currently stationed at Carlisle Barracks, Pennsylvania, and will PCS to Fort Hood this summer. I’ve been working with the Spouse Project here at the Barracks, and it has ignited my desire to write again. It is so hard to pursue your passion when you are changing zip codes so often, but I love this life and the people who fill it.

The military community is simply amazing, and I’m proud to be a part of the small percentage that serves our nation. It isn’t easy, and sometimes, the pressure to drive on can be overwhelming. It helps that I can turn to my fellow spouses and just be real.

Let’s face it: Life is rarely the put-together facade of the perfect Christmas card or the snapshot of contented bliss we put forth on social media. Real life is big, loud, and full of mistakes. Most of us are struggling with something, and we all deserve to give ourselves the gift of “being messy” without shame. So, I believe we need to dream big, fail big, forgive big, and above all else, love big!

Thanks for taking the time to get to know me!