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Why the Sea Clash with Camouflage: Decoding the Naval and Army Rivalry

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The Navy-Army football game is anticipated year-round by service members, their families, and avid college football fans alike. The game is likened to the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade; it is anticipated and watched worldwide during the holiday season. What started the annual game between West Point’s Black Nights and the Navy Midshipmen of the Naval Academy?

History of West Point

The United States Military Academy at West Point was first known as Fort Arnold. After Benedict Arnold’s famous betrayal during the Revolutionary War, the location became known as Fort Clinton. It officially became the United States Military Academy at West Point in 1802. West Point welcomes around 1200 new cadets each year and about 1,000 cadets graduate. Upon graduation, the cadets attend the Basic Officer Leader Course and then study their branch-specific material aligning with their occupational specialty.

History of the Naval Academy

Annapolis served as Army Post Fort Severn before Secretary of the Navy George Bancroft established the school on October 10, 1845. When the school opened, it hosted 50 students. Like West Point, about 1200 midshipmen are accepted into the U.S. Naval Academy each year, with approximately 1,000 graduating at the end of the four years. Unique to the Academy, midshipmen can choose between serving in the U.S. Navy or the U.S. Marines, as the Marines are a branch of the U.S. Navy in their last year at the Academy. After graduation, the Ensigns (USN) or 2nd Lieutenants (USMC) attend their military occupational specialty (MOS) school.

The Game

Since the game was first played in 1890, it has become a long-standing tradition at the end of the year. Since the end of World War II, the game has been televised. CBS has a broadcasting agreement with teams through 2028 to play the game on the second weekend in December.

The game itself is not like other football games. Everyone playing on the field is willing to serve their country outside the game field. In honor of that service, before the game, there are demonstrations by the Green Berets and Navy Seals and military flyovers showcasing the precision and might of the United States Military. As the Commander-in-Chief of the military, the president is invited to attend the game. Historically, ten U.S. Presidents have attended the game, including Teddy Roosevelt, Woodrow Wilson, Calvin Coolidge, Harry Truman, John F. Kennedy, Gerald Ford, Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, Barack Obama, and Donald Trump.

The game is hosted in various locations, with most of the games hosted in Philadelphia as a halfway point between Annapolis and West Point. From 2023 to 2028, the game will rotate to five different cities – Foxborough, Massachusetts; Landover, Maryland; Baltimore, Maryland; East Rutherford, New Jersey; and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

While only for some years, the game is used for each team to show off new uniforms in honor of events. For the 2023 game, the Army debuted jerseys and helmets explicitly designed to honor the “Iron Soldiers” of the 1st Armored Division as part of the 80th anniversary of Operation Torch, a critical Allied invasion of North Africa during World War II. At the same game, the Navy team honored the 54 Naval Academy grads who have become astronauts with a uniform born of the partnership between the Academy and NASA.

Of the 123 games, the Navy has won 62 times, and the Army has won 54 times. The U.S. Navy had the longest winning streak from 2002 to 2015.

Is it really a rivalry?

During the weeks up to the game, Soldiers hang “Go Army, Beat Navy” signs from their cars, residences, and businesses. The same goes for Sailors and Marines with their “Go Navy, Beat Army” signs. In the end, it is all in good fun and jest. The service members and retirees get together in homes, bars, and restaurants and at the game themselves to watch the fantastic skills of individuals who have committed to giving their all for their country. In the end, it’s a time when these two military academies are highlighted for their skills both on and off the football field. In the spirit of the game – Go Army, Go Navy!

Updated Guidance for Lithium Batteries with A Move with the Army

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When military families prepare for a move, a litany of paperwork is involved. One such notice from both the military moving office and the actual movers is that they will not move lithium batteries. This is aligned with the change in the shipping of lithium batteries. During a PCS move, the Army has announced guidance on moving with lithium batteries.

Army personnel are authorized a combined limit of 100 watts in their household goods shipments, and those who must leave products behind with unremovable batteries that exceed the 100-watt-hour threshold can receive reimbursement. The guidance remains that lithium batteries must be removed if they are removable, moved, or shipped by the military members themselves. However, if the battery is not removable and has to be left behind due to the lithium battery limitations, Army personnel can claim a loss of this item.

But what items have lithium batteries? Aside from computers, consider power tools, electric scooters, rechargeable camera batteries, medical equipment, and even electric toothbrushes.

Any batteries that cannot be shipped or moved with the military member should be disposed of by the proper channels. Battery recycling centers or specific areas at base recycling centers. Make sure to inquire at your recycling center on post to know where and when to turn in batteries if they are no longer needed.

The exception to the 100-watt rule is electric vehicles. Shipping of electric vehicles is through a different party and therefore, is not under the limitations of the household goods move.

Per moving experts, the Air Force is looking into a similar policy. The Navy, and therefore including the Marine Corps, is not looking to extend a similar policy currently.

Holiday Charcuterie Boards: What’s The Big Deal?

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Grazing Boards V Charcuterie Boards

What’s really the difference? A grazing board is a board of foods that can be maintained at room temperature and, therefore, can be left out for several hours for family or friends to grab and enjoy a snack as they are able to. A charcuterie board, on the other hand, has food that requires refrigeration. If a food item requires refrigeration, it is usually best to only keep these foods out for two hours or less. Once the charcuterie board has had its last snack taken, cleaning it up and storing any leftovers for another day is safe.

Charcuterie Board Ideas

Grinch Board

This is fun – pair it with watching the classic movie with your friends and family, or just because. Lay out green and red snacks as the Grinch’s face and hat. Cut strawberries and raspberries for the hat with white snowballs as the cotton ball for the tip of the hat. For the face, use green grapes, cut kiwi, green wrapped Hershey kisses, green M&Ms or even Skittles as his face. For this wily smile, black licorice is a great addition to both his licorice-like behavior and smile. Use licorice to outline his eye and fill with yellow M&Ms with a black M&M for the pupil.

Classic Charcuterie Board

Add in and layer any of the following:

  • Baked cheese like camembert or cheese wrapped in dough or topped with herbs or nuts
  • Various hard cheeses like cheddar or silton
  • Dried fruit like figs, apricots or pomegranates
  • Thinly sliced cured meats like salami, chorizo or sausage
  • Savory crackers
  • Dips like cranberry chutney or hummus
  • Nuts
  • Olives
  • Honey or honeycomb

Seafood Board

For those who are more of a fan of what is under the sea, consider making up a seafood board with:

  • Smoked salmon
  • Cooked shrimp
  • Trout Pate
  • Cooked prawns
  • Crackers
  • Sliced toast
  • Lemon wedges
  • Capers

Breakfast Board

This one is a big hit and can be done without the items that require refrigeration for a grazing board (see below), but if you are feeding a crowd at the same time, consider adding these items to a breakfast board.

  • Smoked Salmon
  • Deli Meat
  • Yogurt
  • Fresh Fruit
  • Sliced Avocado
  • Hard Boiled Eggs

Grazing Board Ideas

Have family or friends coming and going throughout the holiday season. Consider laying out one of these grazing boards.

Hot Cocoa Grazing Board

In addition to hot cocoa in a jar or hot cocoa packets, layout mint candies like Andes mints or York peppermint patties to be added to the powder. Candy canes, marshmallows – mini or full size, crushed peppermints, caramel or chocolate sauce, M&Ms, and sprinkles are all great additions. Shelf-stable squeeze bottles of caramel and chocolate sauce mean that they can be stored on the board all day.

Sweets Grazing Board

A holiday sweets board can go many ways – consider adding these to your board.

  • Dried fruit
  • Chocolates
  • Cookies
  • Peppermint bark
  • Gummy Bears
  • Pretzels – dipped in chocolate or yogurt or naked
  • Salted Nuts
  • Brownies
  • Chocolate coins
  • Marshmallows

Breakfast Grazing Board

A breakfast board is always a hit when guests wake at various hours.

  • Waffles or mini pancakes
  • Pastries, including cinnamon rolls or croissants
  • Granola
  • Cereals
  • Mini jars or chocolate spreads

These boards are great ways to provide food and nourishment, with less stress on the host to have food ready to go for a crowd at a certain time, especially when there are various arrivals of family members or friends throughout the holiday season. Which holiday board will you use this season?

Enjoy a Seasonal Spin on Fruits and Veggies This Holiday Season

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Fresh fruit and vegetables aren’t just for the spring and summer seasons. While some fruits are not widely available in the winter due to the growing season, it doesn’t mean there aren’t ways to enjoy them. Packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, fresh fruits support the immune system, promote healthy skin and aid in digestion. The fiber in fruits helps regulate blood sugar levels, maintain a healthy weight, and improve heart health by reducing cholesterol. Additionally, the natural sugars found in fresh fruits provide a quick and sustained energy boost without the drawbacks associated with added sugars in processed foods. Make sure to enjoy fresh produce this season with seasonal twists.

Red and Green Salads

Looking for a color-themed salad? Look no further!

Frisee, Romaine and Red Endive Salad

Mixing these green and red leaves of frisee, romaine lettuce and red endive creates a great red and green background. Make a sweet and tangy dressing by mixing ¼ cup balsamic vinegar, 2 TBL brown sugar and the juice of lemon with 2/3 cup olive oil. Top the lettuce with the dressing and consider topping with candied nuts and scallions for a crunch.

Pomegranate and Kiwi Salad

Mix these two seasonal fruits for a stunning red and green fruit salad. Top with a little honey and lemon juice for added zest and flavor.

Red and Green Fruit Salad with Mint Syrup

For the mint syrup, bring together ½ sugar and ½ cup of water to a boil in a small saucepan. Remove from the heat and add in ½ fresh mint, allowing the mint to steep in the syrup for 20-30 minutes. Strain the syrup to remove the mint leaves from the syrup. This can be refrigerated overnight until ready to serve.

Combine cut strawberries, honeydew melon, cut grapes, cut kiwi, and pomegranate seeds in a large bowl. Pour the mint syrup over the fruit combination for a holiday taste onto the red-and-green salad.

Red and Green Fruit Salad with Orange-Cinnamon Dressing

Combine ¼ cup honey and ¼ cup orange juice for the dressing. Whisk in ½ ginger, 1 tsp cinnamon and ½ tsp vanilla extract.

Combine cut strawberries, red and green apples, honeydew melon, grapes, kiwi, and one cup of dried cranberries in a large bowl. Pour the dressing syrup over the fruit combination for a zesty dressing.

Christmas Fruit Salad

The key to this fruit salad is mixing in the seasonally available fruits. This usually includes pears, red apples, pomegranate seeds, persimmon, raspberries, red and green grapes. Mix the fruit together and top with your favorite dressing or mix honey, yogurt and lemon juice together for a light and flavorful dressing.

Add extra pizzaz with cutting apples with small star or tree shaped cookie cutters for a themed signal to the holiday.

Pepper Santa

This fun take on a charcuterie board uses vegetables to make a Santa face!

Ingredients:

Red Peppers

Grape or Cherry Tomatoes

Cauliflower Florets

Broccoli Florets

Hummus

Olives

Instructions:

Use hummus to create a “face” of Santa in the middle of the board. Above the face, lay strips of red bell peppers creating a Santa hat. For the “fur” trim with cauliflower florets. Use olive for eyes, cauliflower florets for eyebrows and mustache. Use a cherry tomato for his red nose, and a pepper slice for the smile. For the beard of Santa, use cauliflower florets. For the background add cherry tomatoes and broccoli.

Strawberry Santas

A popular pin on Pinterest is the Strawberry Santas.

Ingredients:

Strawberries

Whipped Cream

Mini chocolate chips

Instructions:

Cut the strawberries about ¾ the way up. Remove the smaller part of the strawberry and top with whipped cream, then add the strawberry piece back on top of the whipped cream. Add two “eyes” with the mini chocolate chips to the white between the Santa “body” and “hat.” Top the hat with whipped cream for a cotton ball puff.

What is your favorite way to dress up produce for the holiday season?

A Military Spouse Christmas Wish

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The winter sky is open, without a cloud in sight, just a lone star shining. Make a wish! If a military spouse could make a wish upon a star that would come true this Christmas season, it would be to have a glimpse into the future by a year, maybe even two.

Into The Unknown

Every year, or two or three, the military family moves. Military orders are issued, and within weeks or months, the family decides if they will move with the service member or stay behind. Moving means uprooting everyone – the military spouse’s job, if there is one, a new home, a new school, and new medical providers, including therapies. Will the movers pack up things well, or will there be a broken mess on the other end? Will we find a house? Will there be good school programs? What about the dentist, doctors, physical therapists? This unknown causes an increase in stress for everyone in the family.

Planning Ahead

If there was one wish, it would be to have that glimpse in the future, to have an idea of where life will lead to manage expectations. Instead of at the last minute, planning could happen, meaning less stress. It would mean being able to plan dental visits on time instead of being told at the next duty station that, no, there are no open appointments for six months because “you should plan ahead.” It means transitioning children into dance, karate, or music programs that suit them best versus what programs have room for them. It would mean finding affordable housing, or better yet, being able to go on the military housing list with enough time to actually be offered a house when still living at that duty station instead of when you are being packed up to move somewhere else. Knowing ahead would provide stability.

Health and Home

We would know where we were living. This would lead to a lot less stress. In the real estate market, rental and purchase prices are skyrocketing. BAH is not keeping up with these costs in many areas that military members serve. Looking ahead means planning financially and picking the best place and home cost. This would mean less stress of living in a hotel for months or choosing “the best of the worst.” If OCONUS orders are in the future, plan ahead for car purchases or sales to lessen the financial burden of a large purchase if it is unnecessary. Wow, knowledge really would be power.

When knowing where to live, the decisions for schools, kids programs, dentists, and doctors come quickly. Find programs that best suit your family within your comfortable driving distance. Find therapists that accept TRICARE and provide care promptly, lessening gaps in treatment and care. If the military spouse works, it means being able to plan ahead for jobs or licensing and certificates if they are needed for employment. It would mean no gap in financial security in the dual-income family. Less financial stress means less stress overall. The military lifestyle is generally stressful; the unknowns of moving catalyze the stress level upwards – knowing ahead would manage that stress for all family members.

Yes, it is true. There are a lot of unknowns in the future. There is unrest in the world; there is worry. But for the little corner of the one military spouse who just wants stability, comfort, and less stress, a glimpse into the next year or two would be a fantastic wish come true. It’s just wishful thinking.

Pending Changeover for Company to Handle Household Goods (HHG) Delayed Again

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Moving military families will continue with the current system for moves for a bit longer. U.S. Transportation Command, or US TransCom, is the command providing coordination of air, land and sea transportation for the entire Department of Defense. This organization houses the Defense Personal Property Program, which handles and coordinates military movers for the Department of Defense and the Coast Guard. The change over to a new company has been delayed. US TransCom and its new contractor, HomeSafe Alliance, are working through technical difficulties and will not be transitioning to HomeSafe Alliance taking over the coordination of moves under the Global Household Goods Contract.

The goal of the transition was for it to occur in September of 2023. Due to the technical difficulties leading to issues with the HomeSafe Alliance application from working with the interface of a new MilMove platform. Once the application is up and running, moving military families could track inventory and request assistance for any issues that arise.

US TransCom awarded the contrast to HomeSafe Alliance in November of 2021 for around $20 million dollars. HomeSafe Alliance is a joint venture of existing moving companies, made specifically for US TransCom to coordinate military moves. Per the November 2021 press release, “We are honored to partner with the military community around the globe,” said Alan Thompson, HomeSafe CEO.“Combining our HomeSafe Connect advanced digital solution and global program management expertise, we will dramatically improve the relocation experience for our service members, civilians, and their families. Our solution will significantly expand and reward quality performance and is an important catalyst in the transformation of the military household goods moving industry.”

Their website states services will start in 2023.  HomeSafe Alliance has developed a HomeSafe Connect app to connect with a new MilMove site, replacing the current website. The connection will allow for 24/7 access to updates on where household goods are and 24/7 customer service. Per an October news release, HomeSafe Alliance is looking to hire military spouses to assist with their 24/7 customer service and fill other necessary roles. There is no pending date on when these two interfaces will work.

When the transition is completed, military movers will check the Defense Personal Property Program to see if their move qualifies for the new system. Once verifying that the MilMove site can be utilized, all guidance will be found on the new website, and the HomeSafe Connect application will allow seamless connection. According to a TransCom fact sheet, these changes will continue to occur over the following years.

Whether this transition will help smooth the difficult process of military moves is yet to be seen. PCS time is fraught with frustrations by military families – military movers that do not show, assistance that is difficult to reach through the current system, and often delays in shipping or large amounts of missing items. Time and testing will tell if this system is a useful tool for addressing the issues of the current military move system. With 300,000 service members and families moving yearly, plenty of testing will occur.

Subletting Child Care Spots Program Expanded

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Finding childcare at your next duty station may be easier with the subletting program. One challenge to military spouse employment is childcare. Childcare on base is based on priority – dual military spouses first, then a military service member and a working spouse, then a military service member and a spouse in school, then a military service member and a spouse looking for employment. It is hard to find a job when you can’t interview. The subletting program may help those looking for employment or for spouses who need to coordinate their own medical appointments or need a break.

Air Force bases will roll out the new application, Kinderspot, in 2024 to allow for ease of subletting childcare spots at participating childcare development centers (CDCs). It is already active at 29 Air Force bases, including the new additions of Beale Air Force Base and Vandenberg Space Force Base, California; Fairchild Air Force Base, Washington; Spangdahlem Air Base, Germany; and Whiteman Air Force Base, Missouri as of November 15th. Beyond the 29 Air Force Bases, Kinderspot is utilized at the following Joint Bases: Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling, Washington, D.C.; Joint Base Andrews, Maryland; Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska; Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia; and Joint Base San Antonio, Texas. The subletting of childcare spots will allow other families to “rent” the spots that the current CDC families don’t need, and if rented, will provide a credit to those families.

To sublet spots, families must complete all the required paperwork for the CDC and be verified before being able to utilize the Kinderspot app. The rate for the childcare spot will be based on the renter’s family income, not the family who has the permanent spot at the CDC. The subletting is based solely on the spot available. For example, if a family with a permanent CDC spot will be away for the holidays in December, they can add their two available weeks for the infant room on the Kinderspot app. Only an infant from another family can fill that spot. The fees will be paid directly to the CDC, not to the family that is putting the time up for sublet. This also allows families with permanent CDC spots to get a financial break when not using the CDC without losing their permanent childcare spot.

The Kinderspot application was created by Air Force Major Jacque Vasta, who modeled the application after applications utilized to sublet homes like AirBnBs, an application many military families utilize to find temporary lodging when moving.

The Kinderspot application is available for both Android and Apple phones. Since its inception in 2021, the application has 6200 users with almost 4,000 rented spots.  As of now, no other military branches are using the Kinderspot application.

Eight Gifts Your Service Member Will Love

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Like it or not, the holiday shopping season is here. The months have flown by, and the holidays are here. Whether you enjoy shopping or not, shopping for a military service member isn’t always easy. Looking for last-minute gifts to get your service member? Look no further!

  1. Coffee, coffee, coffee – Every service member enjoys caffeine. The deployments, work-ups, shift work, and long hours are conducive to a caffeine-fueled lifestyle. Some awesome veteran-owned coffee brands have names with funny nods to the military lifestyle. Aerial Resupply Coffee and Fire Department Coffee are great places to start. If caffeine through tea is more your service member’s mode of caffeination, check out Valhalla Tea Company or Star-Spangled Tea.
  • Spices – Get spicy in the kitchen with fun spice blends. Smoked Bros Premium Spice Blends has various spice mixes, from breakfast-inspired ones to full-on flavor BBQ rubs.  Or perhaps a Saffron-based spice is what you are looking for – Rumi Spice is it. Dry rubs and BBQ sauces are bountiful and flavorful from Veterans Q. All of these companies are veteran-owned, which is another reason to check them out.
  • Massage Gun – All those caffeine-infused hours on top of the stress of the job, and perhaps the commute on top, means a little relaxation is vital for rest and restoration. Massage guns come in all shapes and sizes. If your service member is in physical therapy or works with a physical therapist, they can recommend one. The local base exchange or durable medical equipment shop may also carry some. Amazon has decent models at affordable prices as well. This may be a gift for your service member, but it can be used on most adults. Check with your medical provider for any questions or health concerns before use.
  • Projector – Many families have moved to streaming devices, but these little streaming sticks are mobile. No longer tied to the cable box means you can lose the big tv and get a projector. The projector can project an image of any size on a blank wall at home or outside on a fence line or outside of the home. It is great for hosting movie nights or even gathering buddies for a football game. Your service member will love a projector. There are various types of sizes, costs, and capabilities. Whichever you choose, make sure to get a hard case carrying case for it because you will definitely be bringing it with you for every PCS.
  • Durable Gear – Any durable gear is appreciated. Durable phone cases, durable phone chargers, and even durable coffee makers to take to the field or to work. Keep your service member hydrated with a durable water bottle that won’t break or bust when dropped off the roof of a vehicle on accident. Durable sunglasses that can survive being run over. There are many brands of durable gear. Check out the military exchange website, and shop across the brands online for the best deals.
  • Fitness Dice – Physical fitness is a key component required for military service. Working out isn’t always fun or exciting; fitness dice mix up the workout. There are various options on the market, from traditional six-sided dice to octagonal to those for families and those for HIIT exercise. Choose the best fit for your service member.
  • Blaze Pods – The light-up Blaze Pods are utilized for training, play, and recovery.  In fact, the Beckhams popularized their use with their plank challenge program, using the lights to activate and remain mobile while doing planks. These tools add a different variety to the workout and may motivate the younger family members to get involved. Use the lights as cones for a sprint or to create a serpentine for stability exercises. If David Beckham uses it, it will probably be a hit.
  • Anything Using the Nato Alphabet – There are some hilarious products, from coffee mugs to t-shirts to posters. Sayings with the “Whiskey Tango Foxtrot” to more colorful options make service members giggle and are likely to be appreciated by their coworkers as well.

Nine Tips to Staying Healthy During the Holidays

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An Apple A Day Keeps the Doctor Away

Okay, not quite. But eating your fruits and vegetables during the cough and cold season does provide antioxidants and vitamins that boost your immune system. Citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, and limes, in addition to tomatoes, red and green peppers, broccoli, strawberries, and cantaloupe, are great sources of vitamin C. Vitamin C is vital for healing wounds, protecting bones and teeth and protecting the body.

Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate

Per the Mayo Clinic, an adult male of normal health living in a normal climate needs 15.5 cups of fluid a day, and a woman of normal health living in a normal climate needs 11.5 cups. This doesn’t include drinks that dehydrate you, like coffee, caffeinated teas, or alcohol. Maintaining hydration allows the body to send appropriate hunger signals and maintain optimal function – meaning limiting illness.

Keep Up With Exercise

Maintaining health should be an everyday thing. One way to maintain a healthy body is through exercise. This can be walking daily, riding your bike with friends and family, or a more regimented workout routine. Keep this up during the holidays. While it may look varied if you have to travel during the holidays, maintain some healthy activity. Exercise maintains muscle, which helps maintain body weight, and boosts cardiovascular health, which may lower the risk of diabetes and high blood pressure.

Wash Your Hands

This may seem basic, but if there is anything the last few years taught us, people must be reminded to wash their hands. Whatever the reason, handwashing stations have become more available. Remember to wash your hands with soap and water after touching common touch points like railings, chairs, escalators, or door handles. If you can’t remember how long to wash your hands, sing Jingle Bells in your head. No sink nearby? Consider carrying sanitizer or washing or looking for sanitizer stations.

Get Your ZZZZZs

A healthy amount of sleep helps reset your body’s functions. According to John Hopkins,  “a healthy amount of sleep is vital for ‘brain plasticity,’ or the brain’s ability to adapt to input,” in addition to lowering your immune system – which can make you prone to getting sick. Think of sleep as the body’s reset button – it processes the day, heals any issues, and boosts your body’s functions for the next day.

Stay Zen

While meditating on a busy train or practicing mindful breathing while waiting in the school pick-up line may seem silly, these are important tools for maintaining health. The holidays are a busy time of year, with increased time and schedule demands. Remain mindful of your limitations – don’t be afraid to say no to a third potluck that week because you don’t have the time to make a dish. Take time for yourself, daily if possible, through meditation, mindful breathing, or even yoga. Managing your stress will increase your ability to enjoy the fun you have planned during the holidays.

Mindful Eating

Just like getting in your fruits and veggies, make sure to be mindful of your eating. Eat slowly, instead of rushing so you can listen to your body’s hunger cues. Indulge in the holiday treats, but maybe not every day. Maintaining healthy nutrition will maintain your energy and ability to enjoy the holiday festivities.

Cheers, in Moderation

Like any time of year, if you choose to indulge in alcohol, do so in moderation. Alcohol can lower your hunger cues, causing you to eat more and disrupt your normal sleeping patterns if you have more than a few adult beverages. Mix up alcoholic drinks with mocktails and water.

Minimize Crowds

This one may be difficult. Maybe you’ve got your friend’s daughter or son’s dance recital to see, or you are checking out the local Nutcracker production for the holidays. If you are joining larger gatherings than you have in years past, consider the fact that for years, these individuals may have been wearing masks, and now they aren’t. People may not remember coughing into their elbow, so they share their sneezing or cough with the room. Boosting and protecting your immune system while there, cleaning your hands frequently, and avoiding touching your mouth, hands, or eyes after touching something that doesn’t belong to you may limit exposure to cold and flu viruses.

This doesn’t mean you won’t get sick ever. In fact, getting ill boosts antibodies and helps your overall health, but no one wants to be sick over the holidays. If you get sick, take breaks –  limit the sugar intake, skip the packed auditorium, and stay home to rest and hydrate appropriately. Call your medical provider to be evaluated if an illness lasts several days or a fever persists despite anti-fever medications.

Don’t Pass By These Stocking Stuffers at the Commissary

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When you think of stocking stuffers, the image may be strolling down the aisles with that big red cart leisurely picking up items. The reality is rare, and it can become quite expensive. While grocery shopping at the military commissary, consider picking up a few things for stocking stuffers.

Local Vendors

Many commissaries feature local vendors or artisans at the front of their stores, especially for the holidays. From floral displays to local spice or baking mixes, there is a variety of local options. Consider checking these out to support a local vendor, all while sampling the beauty or taste of the local area you currently call home.

Spice Mixes

Spice mixes make great stocking stuffers – they are small and are great options for trying different mixtures. There are grill mixes for the person who likes to grill in the family and crock pot packets for the meal planner. There are even dip mixes for the snacker. There are many to choose from, from boxes to bags to bottles. Try one or two this year and make a mental note for the others in the future.

Baking Mixes

Boxed and bagged cookie and cake mixes are great ways to explore different flavors. There are even no-bake versions for a delicious and quick sweet treat! King Arthur often releases holiday baking mixes, including Gingerbread Cake and Cookie mix or even their donut mix! Remember to check out the health food aisle for gluten-free versions as well.

Bread Mixes

From mixes needing a bread machine to mixes to mix by hand and enjoy, or pizza crust mixes to focaccia – bread mixes are another fun stocking stuffer. It gives the gift of food and time together baking in the kitchen or working, building baking skills, and food exploration in younger children. The baking aisle includes options from sourdough, banana bread, cinnamon swirl, blueberry, and holiday bread mixes. If you can’t find what you are looking for, chances are there are some options in the seasonal section of the commissary.

International Aisle

The International Aisle is a favorite aisle, no matter the season, especially during holidays. It is a gem packed with fun foods to explore. From Pocky from Japan to lemon curd from the UK to zingy mustard from Germany, there is a lot of food to explore. Try something new for each family member – the perfect surprise for the stocking that will be tried and enjoyed.

Holiday Section

Remember to peruse the holiday section. These are where more international items are available, specifically for the holidays – minced pies, rich fruit pudding, shortbread, and tea mixes. Each Commissary location offers a variety, but some brands, like Walkers, remain the same, providing an opportunity to continue the holiday tradition of enjoying these treats no matter where the military sends you.

There is no need to make a special trip to the store for stocking stuffers. Save time and money and check out unique options while picking up stocking stuffers at your local commissary.