Remind Them of Home

6 surprises for spouses going on a TDY.

by Julie Steed


Care packages aren’t just for deployments. You don’t need to do anything fancy or expensive. Simply let them know that you are thinking of them and waiting anxiously for their return from a TDY or a cruise work up is another way to say you care.

Here are some suggestions for simple surprises.

1-Messages on Note Cards.
Buy a pack of tiny note cards with simple messages already printed on them. Fold them and tuck them into places where they’ll easily be found. One in each pair of socks takes care of a note for every day. For more personalized notes, cut pieces of paper and write your own message.

2-Candy and Homemade Treats.
TDY’s often lead to remote locations where familiar items cannot be readily purchased. Surprise your spouse by including favorite candies and snacks in their luggage. Seal food items in plastic bags to make sure they don’t ruin anything in the suitcase.

3-Pictures and Photo Albums.
It is very easy to slip a small, framed photo into a suitcase pocket. You can also put together tiny photo albums that include pictures of children and pets.

4-Letters.
Refuse to allow technology to make old-fashioned letter writing a thing of the past. Pull out a piece of stationery and write to your spouse. Sneak the letter into their carry-on so they will find it right away. You can also put a second letter in their luggage to be found later.

5-Entertainment.
For an especially long or ill-anticipated TDY, purchase a gift that you know your spouse will use and enjoy. A few suggestions for an entertaining surprise include a new edition of a favorite magazine, a new book or a new movie.

6-Drawings from the Kids.
Many children love to draw, so ask them to make a special picture to send along with mom or dad. Children often have creative ideas of their own that make for extra-special reminders of home.