What do you love about being a military family?

Anyone in a military family knows this lifestyle comes with challenges. But there’s so much to love about the journey too.

On Instagram, we asked our readers, “What do you love about being a military family?”

READ: A conversation with Nashville star and military spouse RaeLynn

Here are some of the things YOU love:

“We spent 20 + years in the military, and I can tell you that the best thing about it is the people! Unlike my time out of uniform, we knew who our neighbors were and that we could always count on them if you needed anything! We tended to live in military communities for our whole career! I truly miss it now!” @richardghartman

“The very first glimpse of my husband as the ship returns home. Even before we shared a hug, a kiss, anything, as soon as I spotted him, the butterflies returned. It’s like the church doors opening, again, on our wedding day and I see my groom for the first time. For so many, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime moment. For me, I have had the privilege to experience those butterflies-in-the-stomach-heart-skips-a-beat-take-my-breath-away moments time and time again. Many have said before that Homecoming makes it all worth it and after all these years, not only do I understand why, I agree.” @seaportssweetheartstyle

“We love moving! Getting to experience different climates and cultures is enriching for our whole family.” @ag_flipflopsandflightsuits

“Our family has been fortunate enough to have traveled to 26 countries together, which would not have been possible if it weren’t for the Navy. In addition to experiencing other cultures and the learning that comes with that, we have made lifelong friends with families from all over the world—military and civilian—who have varying backgrounds. I’ve witnessed the impact that this has on my children in broadening their perspective and deepening their empathy.” @Sarahwilkening, Navy veteran and spouse

“I love watching my husband do a job he was made to do.” @thewaitingwarrior

“I love going new places and building diverse experiences all along the way. It allows me to show my kids how big and different places can be and that’s it’s all beautiful too.” @slowerdowntoread

“We truly cherish the time when we’re together. Deployments and TDYs are so hard being apart, but I get butterflies every time we are reunited! It’s like falling in love with your spouse all over again!” @kelseykennelbaird

“The relationships are unmatched! From friendships to neighbors, school friends, etc. Moving often results in more exposure to amazing people who become lifelong friends.” @ash.m.losoya

“TDYs and deployments are hard, but they have made us closer than ever. I love how close our little military family is.” @madi.thor

“I loved being able to serve our country as a family & growing together through all the sacrifice that comes with that service.” @kidsbooksbychandelle

“I love the neighbors-turned-friends that we have made along the way! We have supported each other in ways that most civilians couldn’t imagine.” @septembernatalie9

“Growing up as a brat, I loved that I got to live overseas and see other countries!” @bysarahannecarter

“We truly cherish family time. When you’ve experienced separation, it makes the time together so special and sacred. We also love exploring so many new places! We take advantage of wherever we are to make memories.” @moniquesanchez_

“Giving my kids the chance to see the world, and meeting so many amazing people along the way. I know that if I had stayed in my hometown, it would have been hard to move beyond a very narrow and limited perspective.” @julie_c_b

“We love the chance to explore so many new places with a steady paycheck.” @mrs.v_m_wildeman

“Moving is hard, but now we have friends all over the world that we love to visit!” @trcolby

“We’ve loved it for the opportunities to meet so many different people and live and travel in amazing new places!” @kaitimoves