Last week we began the discussion of ways to make the holidays more enjoyable while a loved one is deployed. This week we’ll continue discussing ways to make the upcoming season a bit more bearable.

Last week we mentioned making things to put in a care package. Baking cookies can be something fun to do together with those at home. Decorating sugar cookies is always a treat. The best way to get them there and in one piece is to use a FoodSaver type vacuum-sealing system. This can keep the cookies fresh for the long trip there. The package can then be placed on a flat piece of cardboard and wrapped in bubble wrap for minimum breakage. You can also include homemade ornaments, cards, gifts and any other things that may make your service member’s holiday more cheerful. Focusing attention on what will make them happy can cheer you up in the process. You can even asked the deployed person to make use of what’s around them and send the family something back. They can be especially creative with as little as garbage bags and duct tape!

Last week we also touched on the value of helping those less fortunate. While this is a valuable lesson all year, why not take this time to focus your attention on reminding your children (and yourself) that there is always someone that has it worse than you do. Despite the fact that your loved one is gone, there are others dealing with many hard situations as well. Focusing on helping them somehow can make you feel great. If you’re not sure where to start, ask around and see if there’s a family within your military community that might need a little extra hand during the holidays. Doing something as simple as having a holiday meal with them can do wonders for your morale and can help the receiving family in the process.

Remember to document the holidays to share with the service member. Take lots of pictures and video. You can make a scrapbook to share with them either while deployed or once they come back. It will help the deployed member feel a bit like they were there with the family to see all the reactions, fun and happiness that took place.

Above all, remember that it is ok and healthy to talk about your feelings. If you’re feeling sad, share that with your children and your deployed family member. Chances are they’re feeling the same way. The key is to not dwell on the bad feelings. Talking about them can make everyone feel a bit better though. Maybe the other person has a way of helping you cope you never thought of.

The upcoming holiday season will be difficult for those of you with deployed loved ones. Remember that it can still be fun and a season worth treasuring with a little planning and forethought.