While October is here, it doesn’t seem like the holidays are approaching; they are just around the corner. This year can be especially financially challenging as the pressures to provide a “magical holiday” may seem difficult while keeping finances intact. For military families, holiday spending can be particularly challenging, especially when paired with frequent relocations or deployments. However, with planning, budgeting, and taking advantage of various support programs and resources, it’s possible to enjoy a stress-free holiday season without breaking the bank. Here’s how to prepare for the holidays with financial fitness in mind.

Layaway: Spreading the Cost Over Time

One of the most effective ways to prevent a holiday budget bust is by utilizing layaway programs. Layaway allows families to reserve items and pay for them over time, rather than making one large purchase all at once. This approach spreads the cost of holiday gifts over several weeks or months, making it easier to manage within your budget.

Many retailers, including military exchanges, offer layaway programs during the holiday season. The Army & Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES), for example, typically has a holiday layaway program that waives the fee for toys and other holiday-related items, making it easier to purchase gifts for children without straining your wallet all at once. By using layaway, families can gradually pay off larger items like bikes, electronics, or holiday decorations without putting everything on a credit card, which can lead to high-interest debt after the holidays.

Plan Ahead to Avoid a Holiday Budget Bust

Planning ahead is essential to keeping your holiday spending under control. Start by creating a holiday budget that outlines what you can afford to spend on gifts, meals, travel, and entertainment. Break down your budget by category, and be realistic about how much you can spend without going into debt.

• Start Early: Begin shopping early to take advantage of sales and avoid the last-minute rush. Purchasing gifts throughout the year can help spread costs and prevent a large lump sum of holiday expenses all at once.
• Use a Gift List: Instead of feeling pressured to buy a lot of gifts, create a list of the people you want to buy for and assign a budget for each. This way, you’re less likely to overspend or get carried away with impulse purchases.
• Look for Deals: Keep an eye on holiday sales, clearance sections, and coupons. Shopping during Black Friday or Cyber Monday can help you score great deals on gifts and holiday essentials, allowing you to stick to your budget.

By setting a budget and sticking to it, you’ll avoid the dreaded January debt hangover.

Experiences Over Material Gifts

One way to ease the financial burden of the holidays is by focusing on creating memorable experiences with family rather than focusing solely on material gifts. There are numerous military programs that offer free or discounted experiences for service members and their families, which can make for wonderful holiday memories without the high cost.

Waves of Honor is one such program, offering military families free admission to SeaWorld, Busch Gardens, and other theme parks. Instead of purchasing multiple holiday gifts, consider spending a day at one of these parks, creating lasting memories without the high price tag. Experiences like these allow families to bond and celebrate the season together while reducing the need to buy expensive gifts.

Many museums, parks, and zoos also offer discounted or free admission to military families, which can be a great way to enjoy the holidays without overspending.

Holiday Support Programs for Military Families

Some military families may be able to utilize holiday support programs designed to provide assistance and cheer during the holiday season. These programs can help with everything from holiday meals to gifts for children, ensuring that financial struggles don’t take away from the joy of the season.

• Operation Homefront: During the holiday season, Operation Homefront’s “Holiday Meals for Military” program delivers holiday meal kits to service members and their families. These kits contain all the ingredients needed to prepare a festive meal, helping families stretch their budgets further during the holiday season.
• Blue Star Families: Blue Star Families, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting military families, offers various holiday programs. One such program is their annual holiday toy distribution event, where military children can receive toys for the holidays. Blue Star Families also partners with other organizations to offer special events, giveaways, and activities that bring holiday cheer to military families. Follow Blue Star Neighborhood for your local area to learn more.
• USO Holiday Programs: The USO, known for supporting military members and their families, has a variety of holiday initiatives. Many USO locations host holiday parties, gift giveaways, and even meals for military families. These events provide a sense of community and connection during the holidays, especially for families who may be away from extended family or dealing with deployments. Follow your local USO for such opportunities.

Many of these programs have eligibility criteria, so make sure to read all such required criteria before signing up.

Stay Financially Fit for the Holidays

Financial fitness during the holidays is achievable with a combination of smart planning, budgeting, and utilizing available resources. Layaway programs, early planning, and focusing on experiences over material goods can all help spread out the costs and reduce financial strain. In addition, military support programs like Operation Homefront, Blue Star Families, and the USO provide much-needed assistance, making the holidays brighter without adding to your budget.

By preparing in advance and using these resources wisely, military families can create a memorable and joyful holiday season without financial stress.

As the cooler months approach, military families must prepare their homes for the changing weather. Whether you’re stationed on base or off base, ensuring that your housing is ready for the fall and winter months is crucial for maintaining comfort, safety, and energy efficiency. In addition to colder temperatures, families in the Southeast must remain vigilant during hurricane season, which lasts through November. Preparing your home now can help you avoid last-minute repairs and costly heating bills when temperatures drop.

1. Prepare for the End of Hurricane Season (Southeast)

If you’re stationed in the Southeast, fall doesn’t just bring cooler weather but also the tail end of hurricane season. Even though it may seem like the peak storm months are behind you, the season doesn’t officially end until November 30. Preparing your home for potential storms can protect your property from damage and ensure your family’s safety. Here are a few key tips:

• Check for leaks: Inspect windows, doors, and your roof for any signs of leaks. Seal any gaps with weather stripping or caulk to prevent water from entering your home during heavy rain.
• Clear gutters and downspouts: Leaves and debris can clog your gutters, leading to water damage during a storm. Ensure your gutters and downspouts are clean and working properly to direct water away from your home.
• Secure outdoor items: Any outdoor furniture, grills, or decorations can become projectiles in high winds. Secure or bring them inside when a storm is forecast.
• Stock up on emergency supplies: Even though it’s late in the season, it’s wise to have an emergency kit with essentials such as non-perishable food, water, batteries, and first aid supplies. Some will do a mad dash and buy out all the water when a storm is approaching, get ahead of it by buying some early.

2. Check Heating Systems Before It Gets Cold

As the temperature drops, you’ll rely more on your heating system to keep your home comfortable. Whether living on base or in private housing, checking your heating system before you need it can prevent unexpected failures during cold snaps.

• On-base housing: If you’re living on base, now is the time to test your heating system. Turn it on to ensure it’s functioning correctly, and listen for any unusual noises or signs of malfunction. If you notice any issues, put in a maintenance request with your housing office as soon as possible. Quick action can prevent larger issues later on and ensure you have heat when the cold weather arrives.
• Off-base housing: For families living off base, it’s essential to have your heating system inspected by a professional before the cold weather hits. A thorough inspection can catch any potential problems with your furnace, heat pump, or boiler. Additionally, check that all heating vents are unblocked, and replace filters if necessary to ensure maximum efficiency.

3. Ensure Insulation Is Up to Date

Proper insulation is key to keeping your home warm during cooler months without driving up your energy bills.

• On-base housing: If you feel drafts or notice uneven heating in your home, it could be a sign of poor insulation. Contact your base housing maintenance team to inspect your home’s insulation. They can address any issues and ensure your home retains heat more effectively.
• Off-base housing: If you’re renting or owning an off-base home, check the insulation in your attic, walls, and floors. If your home is older, you may need to add or replace insulation in these areas. Additionally, check for drafts around windows and doors. Installing weather stripping or using draft stoppers can prevent heat from escaping and keep your home warmer.

4. Fall Cleaning and Home Maintenance Checklist

A good fall cleaning and home maintenance routine will prepare your house for cooler weather and help you address potential issues early. Here’s a checklist to guide your fall preparation:

Fall Cleaning Checklist:

• Clean gutters and downspouts to prevent clogs and water damage.
• Clean windows and inspect them for any leaks or drafts. Apply weather stripping if necessary.
• Deep clean carpets and upholstery, which accumulate dust and allergens over the summer.
• Organize and declutter closets to make room for winter gear, such as coats, boots, and scarves.
• Check for pests: Colder weather often drives pests indoors. Seal cracks, and use traps if necessary.

Fall Home Maintenance Checklist:

• Test your heating system to ensure it’s functioning properly.
• Inspect insulation in your attic, walls, and floors.
• Seal any gaps around windows and doors to prevent drafts.
• Check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they’re working.
• Reverse ceiling fans: Set your ceiling fans to spin clockwise to push warm air down into the room.
• Drain and store garden hoses to prevent freezing damage.
• Trim trees and shrubs away from the house to prevent damage during storms.

By taking these steps to prepare your home for cooler weather, military families can ensure their homes remain safe, comfortable, and efficient. Addressing potential issues before the weather turns will also help prevent costly repairs and reduce energy consumption as you head into the winter months.

Halloween is a time for fun, creativity, and a little bit of spooky magic, but that doesn’t mean you need to spend a fortune on decorations. In fact, with a bit of ingenuity and materials you likely already have around the house, you can create a hauntingly festive atmosphere without breaking the bank. Here are ten budget-friendly Halloween decoration ideas to transform your home into a spooky spectacle this season.

1. DIY Ghost Lanterns

Ghost lanterns are a classic, simple, and affordable decoration that can be made from old mason jars, empty glass containers, or even plastic cups. Simply cover the jars with white tissue paper, cheesecloth, or even gauze. Use a black marker to draw spooky ghost faces on the outside. Place battery-operated tea lights or glow sticks inside for a soft, eerie glow at night.

2. Spider Webs from Cotton Balls

You don’t need to buy store-bought spider webs when you can make your own with cotton balls! Pull apart the cotton balls to stretch them into thin, web-like strands and drape them over doorways, furniture, and windows. You can enhance the effect by placing small plastic spiders within the webs, or you can make your own spiders using black pipe cleaners and googly eyes.

3. Toilet Paper Roll Bats

This is a great way to recycle old toilet paper rolls into something fun and spooky. Paint the rolls black and cut out bat wings from black construction paper. Glue the wings to the sides of the rolls and add googly eyes or draw on eyes with white paint or a marker. These cute little bats can be hung from the ceiling with string or placed around your home for a playful touch.

4. Milk Jug Jack-o’-Lanterns

Instead of carving pumpkins, try making Jack-o’-lanterns out of empty milk jugs. Wash and dry the jugs, then use a black marker to draw funny or spooky faces on them. Fill the jugs with string lights, glow sticks, or battery-operated candles to create glowing, ghostly faces that can line your porch or walkway.

5. Paper Bag Luminaries

Paper bag luminaries are a simple and inexpensive way to create a warm, spooky atmosphere. All you need are brown paper bags, scissors, and battery-operated candles or glow sticks. Cut out Halloween-themed shapes like pumpkins, bats, or ghosts on the sides of the bags, then place the light source inside. Line your walkway or porch with these homemade luminaries to create a welcoming glow for trick-or-treaters.

6. Egg Carton Spiders

Turn old egg cartons into creepy crawlies with a little bit of paint and imagination. Cut apart the individual cups of the carton, paint them black, and add black pipe cleaner legs and googly eyes. These lightweight spiders can be scattered around your home, hung from the ceiling, or placed in webs made from cotton or yarn for a fun and spooky effect.

7. Ghostly Hanging Sheets

For a classic haunted house look, use old white sheets or pillowcases to create hanging ghosts. Drape the sheets over balloons or lightweight balls and tie them off with string to create a head. Use a black marker or felt to draw on ghostly faces, then hang the ghosts from your trees, porch, or even inside your home for an eerie floating effect.

8. Cardboard Tombstones

Transform old cardboard boxes into a spooky graveyard by making tombstones. Cut the cardboard into tombstone shapes and paint them gray. Once dry, you can use black paint or markers to write eerie epitaphs like “R.I.P.” or “Here Lies…” on the tombstones. Stick them in your yard or around your home to create a haunted cemetery look.

9. Pumpkin Balloons

Balloons are an inexpensive way to create festive Halloween decorations. Buy a pack of orange balloons and inflate them to resemble pumpkins. Use a black marker to draw Jack-o’-lantern faces on each balloon, then hang them from the ceiling or scatter them around your house. For an extra effect, tie green ribbon to the top of the balloon to resemble a pumpkin stem.

10. DIY Monster Doors

Turn your front door into a monster to greet trick-or-treaters. Use colored construction paper or cardstock to create large eyes, sharp teeth, and a monster nose. Tape these features to your door and add a strip of crepe paper or a black trash bag across the top of the door to resemble hair or eyebrows. This DIY project is simple, budget-friendly, and creates a bold statement for any entryway.

Bonus Tip: Thrifty Materials and Recycling

For all of these decorations, don’t be afraid to get creative with the materials you already have at home. Old newspapers can be turned into paper mache, leftover fabric can be cut into creepy shapes, and even food packaging can be repurposed for Halloween decor. Visiting a local thrift store or dollar store can also yield inexpensive supplies like yarn, candles, and black paint.

With a little creativity and some basic household materials, you can decorate your home for Halloween without spending much money. From DIY ghost lanterns and cotton ball spider webs to monster doors and egg carton spiders, there are countless ways to transform everyday items into spooky decorations. Not only are these ideas easy on the budget, but they also offer a fun opportunity for families to work together and get into the Halloween spirit.

Fall is the perfect time to transform your home into a warm, cozy space filled with seasonal colors and textures. For military families who move frequently, decorating can present unique challenges, such as ensuring decorations are easy to pack, reusable, and adaptable to new locations. Creating DIY fall decor using budget-friendly materials and natural elements is cost-effective and adds a personal, creative touch to your home. Here are some ideas to help you make beautiful fall decor without spending a fortune, while also keeping military moves in mind.

Utilize Local Nature for Budget-Friendly Decor

One of the best ways to create beautiful, budget-friendly fall decor is by incorporating natural elements. Whether you’re stationed near the woods, mountains, or a more urban area, you can often find natural materials right outside your door to use in your fall decorating projects.

1. Centerpieces with Fall Foliage: Enjoy the abundance of colorful fall leaves, acorns, pinecones, and branches. Collect them during a walk or while exploring your new surroundings. Arrange these materials in a glass vase or bowl for a natural, elegant centerpiece. Add small pumpkins, gourds, or candles for extra warmth and color. Using nature in your decor is not only cost-effective, but it also brings a sense of your current location into your home, helping you feel more connected to your environment.
2. Garlands with Natural Materials: Use the fall foliage you’ve collected to create a stunning garland. String together leaves, pinecones, and small branches with twine or fishing line to make a garland that can be draped over a mantel, hung on the wall, or used as a table runner. This type of decor is lightweight, easy to store, and can be made from materials you already have or find outdoors, making it a great option for families on a budget.
3. Wreaths Using Natural Elements: DIY wreaths are perfect for welcoming the fall season. Using a wireframe (available at most craft stores), you can weave in branches, twigs, and other fall elements such as leaves, dried flowers, or cinnamon sticks. Adding a large bow or ribbon that matches your color scheme can pull it all together. This project is not only inexpensive but creates a wreath that is lightweight and easy to hang. Additionally, natural wreaths are easy to disassemble and store flat when it’s time to move.

If living in an area without an abundance of particularly “normal” fall nature, consider using what is available. If living at a beach location, using shells and coral for a wreath, garland or centerpiece adds a touch of the local outdoors. Such items can be painted for a fall accent, or mixed with items like felt or paper to commemorate the duty station. Don’t let social media tell you that fall is only about pumpkins, acorns and leaves, because in some locations around the world, it isn’t.

Use Reusable Materials That Pack Easily

When it comes to decorating on a budget, reusable and easy-to-pack items are ideal for military families who move frequently. Creating decor from materials like felt, paper, and lightweight fabrics means you can reuse them year after year, and they take up minimal space in your moving boxes.

1. Felt Decorations: Felt is an inexpensive, durable, and versatile material that is perfect for DIY fall decor. You can cut felt into shapes like pumpkins, leaves, and acorns, and use them to create garlands, banners, or table decorations. Because felt is lightweight and lays flat, it’s incredibly easy to store and pack when it’s time to move. Felt garlands, for example, can be draped over mantels, windows, or even doorways, adding a pop of fall color without the bulk of heavier decorations. Plus, felt doesn’t fade easily, so it’s perfect for long-term use.
2. Paper Crafts for Quick and Easy Decor: Paper is another budget-friendly and easily transportable material. Try making paper pumpkins, paper leaf garlands, or simple cut-out banners that say “Happy Fall” or “Give Thanks.” These can be taped to walls, windows, or even used as place settings for a dinner table. Paper decorations are a great way to change up your seasonal decor from year to year without spending much. They can be folded flat and packed away with minimal space needed.
3. Multi-Use Table Runners and Fabric Accents: Consider making a table runner out of fall-themed fabric that can be reused for other seasons. For example, a burlap table runner can be dressed up with seasonal accents like felt pumpkins or fabric leaves for fall, and then reused for other occasions. Adding removable accents is key for military families who want to pack light and have multi-purpose items that can be adapted for various seasons and events.

Other Tips for Decorating on a Budget

1. Thrift Store Finds: Local thrift stores can be a treasure trove for finding budget-friendly decor items like vases, candle holders, and baskets that can easily be dressed up with fall accents. Hitting up thrift stores in new locations can also be a fun way to find unique decor that reflects your new home.
2. Invest in Neutral Basics: Invest in a few neutral basics like burlap, twine, and natural-colored baskets. These items can be used year-round and easily adapted to fit the fall season with a few small adjustments. For example, a simple basket can be filled with fall leaves, pinecones, or pumpkins for autumn, and then switched out with flowers or greenery in the spring. Neutral decor items save space and money because they’re adaptable to different seasons and locations.
3. Repurpose and Recycle: Repurposing materials you already have is another great way to save money. Consider using leftover ribbon, fabric scraps, or even old t-shirts cut into strips to create decorative bows or accents. Mason jars or empty food containers can be painted or wrapped in twine and used as vases, candle holders, or containers for small decor pieces like acorns or potpourri.
4. Freecycle and Buy Nothing Groups: Check out local giveaway groups to see if someone is moving or downsizing. Perhaps you can score a couple blow up decorations and then pass them on to another family when you move. A great way to reuse local resources without having to think about packing and moving that item.

For military families, creating beautiful fall decor doesn’t have to mean spending a lot of money or lugging around heavy, bulky items when it’s time to move. By utilizing natural elements from your local area, creating decor with reusable materials like felt and fabric, and repurposing what you already own, you can transform your home for the fall season on a budget. With these tips, you’ll be able to enjoy a warm and festive atmosphere wherever you’re stationed, without the financial or physical burden of traditional store-bought decorations.

Halloween is a time for creativity and fun, but it doesn’t have to mean spending a lot of money on expensive costumes. With a little imagination and some resourcefulness, you can create amazing costumes using items you already have at home. Whether you’re planning for a group theme or an individual look, here are seven DIY costume ideas that will help you make the most of what you have on hand.

Group Costumes

1. Classic Ghosts

The classic ghost is an easy go-to if you’re looking for a simple and iconic group costume. All you need is an old white sheet for each person. Cut out eye holes, and if you want to add a little extra flair, use fabric markers to draw on spooky faces. This costume works well for groups because it’s uniform and allows for individual expression. You can also add accessories to change up the look to steampunk or haunted house.

2. A Box of Crayons

This fun and colorful idea can easily be pulled together with matching shirts and crafting. Assign each person in your group a different color. Grab some construction paper or cardboard and fashion pointed hats to resemble crayon tips, securing them with tape or glue. Use strips of black tape or paper for the crayon labels and adhere them to the shirts. This costume is especially great for families or groups of friends who want to stick together in a playful and vibrant theme.

3. Deck of Cards

A deck of cards is a fantastic and versatile group costume idea. To pull this off, you’ll need white poster boards or large sheets of paper for each person. Draw or paint a card design on each one, focusing on different suits to add variety. Attach strings or ribbons to the top corners so they can be worn like sandwich boards over your shoulders. For added detail, consider using playing cards to create a crown or accessories that tie the theme together. This costume is ideal for larger groups as you can easily expand the theme by incorporating jokers or royal court cards.

Individual Costumes

4. Rosie the Riveter

If you have a denim shirt and a red bandana, you’re already halfway to becoming Rosie the Riveter. This iconic World War II symbol of female empowerment is easy to recreate at home. Pair the denim shirt with jeans or overalls, roll up the sleeves, and tie the red bandana around your head. Add a bit of red lipstick, flex your arm, and you’re ready to go. This costume is perfect for those who want a simple yet powerful look that can be put together in minutes.

5. A Black Cat

A black cat is a timeless and simple Halloween costume that can be made with just a few household items. Start with an all-black outfit—black leggings, a black shirt, or a black dress will do. To create cat ears, cut triangles out of black construction paper or felt and attach them to a headband. Use eyeliner to draw whiskers and a nose on your face. If you want to add a tail, simply attach a length of black fabric or a scarf to the back of your outfit. This classic costume is quick, easy, and always effective.

6. Mime

A mime costume is a fantastic option that requires minimal supplies. Begin with a black and white striped shirt and black pants. Use white face paint or makeup to cover your face, and then add black eyeliner to define your eyes and draw a tear or exaggerated facial expressions. Wear white gloves if you have them, and consider adding a beret for that authentic French mime look. The mime costume is perfect for those who enjoy getting into character and can entertain the crowd with silent performances throughout the evening.

7. Scarecrow

A scarecrow costume is another simple yet creative idea that can be made using old clothes and a few accessories. Start with a pair of overalls or jeans, a flannel shirt, and a straw hat if you have one. For the scarecrow effect, tuck pieces of straw (or yellow yarn) into your pockets, sleeves, and hat. Use makeup or face paint to draw on a stitched smile and add a bit of blush to your cheeks. You can also add patches to your clothes using fabric scraps or old bandanas for a more authentic, rustic look. This costume is both charming and easy to assemble with items you likely already have at home.

Halloween is a time to have fun and let your creativity shine, and you don’t need to break the bank to do it. With a little ingenuity and some common household items, you can create memorable, budget-friendly and unique costumes. Whether you’re planning for a group theme or just need something for yourself, these seven DIY costumes offer plenty of inspiration to help you celebrate in style.

Before you head out to buy a costume, take a look around your home—you might just find everything you need to create the perfect Halloween look!

Marriage is vital in providing stability and emotional support, especially in the face of the unpredictable and lengthy schedules inherent to military life. For military families, a strong marriage serves as a foundation that helps both partners navigate the unique challenges of deployments, frequent relocations, and long periods of separation. A resilient marital bond fosters trust, understanding, and communication, which are essential when dealing with the uncertainties and pressures of military service. In this way, marriage becomes not just a partnership but a powerful anchor, helping couples endure the demands of military life together.

Service Branch Specific

Each service branch has a program specifically to assist in developing strong marriage relationships. While each branch has different operating rules, overall if the family is stationed at the base, they can utilize the resource. Check with the chaplain or those running the program for eligibility as some programs may only be open to that service branch.

Air Force

The Air Force Installation and Mission Support Center announced the Strong Bonds program offered by the chaplains in the Air Force. The program offers a wide variety of programming not just specific to marriage, but to building strong relationships. Check with the base chapel and unit Chaplain for specific events offered.

Army

The Army chaplain offer programs through the Building Strong and Ready Teams program, facilitated by chaplains to strengthen relationships among soldiers and their families.  From Spouses nights, Marriage date nights and couple events, the program offers a variety of events to support families. Search events by location and type here.

Navy

The Navy offers programs like date nights (and some with childcare!) and weekend retreats geared at providing tools to navigating the military marriage. The Chaplain Corps offer these programs by both region and by base. The Chaplains Religious Enrichment Development Operations (CREDO) retreats are weekend retreats, usually without childcare, but include hotel, meals and enrichment opportunities to build the lines of communication and understanding.

Check out the offerings here.

Marine Corps

The Marine Corps’ offering for building skills navigating relationships in amidst military life is the Preventions and Relationship Enhancement Program (PREP). The program is part of the Marine Corps Family Team Building (MCFTB) programs under Marine and Family Support. Check the MCFTB social media or base page for programs and offerings.

Weekend to Remember

FamilyLife offers marriage retreats for all called a Weekend to Remember.  These weekend retreats provide a peaceful, distraction-free environment where couples can focus solely on each other, away from the stresses of daily life. With a blend of insightful talks from marriage experts, practical tools, and guided conversations, participants explore key aspects of a healthy relationship, such as communication, conflict resolution, and intimacy. The retreats cater to couples at all stages, from newlyweds to those who have been married for decades, offering fresh perspectives and time-tested principles to enhance their connection.

There are specific military branch out sessions at certain retreats, and these retreats offer discounted admission to the conference to active duty military, reserve and guard members here, not including hotel fare or meals.

The marriage conferences and tools available to military families are invaluable resources designed to help couples build stronger, more resilient relationships amidst the unique challenges of military life. By taking advantage of these programs, whether through retreats, workshops, or counseling sessions, couples can find meaningful ways to reconnect, improve communication, and strengthen their bonds. Don’t hesitate to utilize the resources available to you; they are there to help you grow together and build a lasting, loving partnership.

Have you created your fall bucket list yet? If you are among the 400,000 active-duty members who relocated this summer, then this is your first fall in a new location. Or perhaps you are still settling into a new base and now is the fall to get out and explore. Whether new or the base is old hat, this fall is a great time to learn about the place the military has you calling home. Fall is a season full of natural beauty, making it easy to find activities that are both fun and affordable. Here are some budget-friendly ideas for exploring the area where you live while building wonderful family moments this autumn.

1. Explore Local Parks and Nature Trails

One of the best ways to enjoy the fall season is by exploring local parks and nature trails.  Make a day of it by packing a picnic with seasonal treats like apple slices, cheese, and warm cider. Encourage your kids to collect fallen foliage to create a nature-inspired craft at home. You could even turn it into a scavenger hunt by making a list of items to find, or you could check out the local or state parks website before going to see if there is a pre-made scavenger list. This is a fun way to engage with the outdoors and learn about the local environment while getting fresh air and exercise.

2. Visit a Local Farm or Orchard

Fall is synonymous with apple picking, pumpkin patches, and harvest festivals. Many local farms and orchards offer affordable activities like hayrides, corn mazes, and petting zoos. Choose a farm that allows you to pick your own apples or pumpkins. Not only is this a great way to support local farmers, but it also provides an opportunity to teach kids where their food comes from.

After the trip, use the goodies collected from the trip to try new recipes. Cooking and baking as a family are perfect ways to build warm memories, and you’ll have delicious treats to show for it!

3. Create a Fall-Themed Outdoor Movie Night

You can turn your backyard or patio into an outdoor movie theater with a few blankets, pillows, and a portable projector. Choose a family-friendly fall movie, like “It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown,” and serve seasonal snacks like popcorn with cinnamon, hot chocolate, or spiced apple cider. If you have a fire pit, consider roasting marshmallows for s’mores. The earlier sunset will make for an earlier movie time.

Consider including neighbors and friends to join in the fun.

4. Host a Backyard Campfire or Storytelling Evening

Gather around a backyard campfire or portable fire pit for a night of storytelling and songs. Encourage everyone to share a favorite ghost story or a personal adventure or take turns reading from a favorite children’s book. You can also have fun creating new stories together by playing a “pass the story” game, where each person adds a sentence to the story as you go around the circle. This activity costs little to nothing and provides a cozy way to enjoy the cooler evenings while engaging in creative storytelling and laughter.

5. Plan a Scenic Drive or Bike Ride

Enjoy the beautiful fall foliage by planning a scenic drive or bike ride around your area. Research routes that offer the best views of the changing leaves or follow a trail that leads to a local landmark or a quaint town. Make it a photo adventure by bringing a camera or smartphone to capture the beautiful colors, exciting sights, and candid family moments. Create a photo book or digital slideshow afterward to remember the day. This simple activity encourages appreciation for nature and provides an excellent backdrop for some impromptu family photos.

6. Host a DIY Craft Day with Natural Elements

Bring the beauty of fall into your home by hosting a DIY craft day using natural elements found in your backyard or during a walk. Live near the beach? Collect shells, sand or washed-up coral. Living where there area season? Collect leaves, twigs, pinecones, and acorns. Use the natural elements to create wreaths, garlands, or centerpieces. You can also make leaf rubbings or use leaves as stamps to create unique artwork. These crafts are not only inexpensive but also offer a great way add some seasonal décor without spending a ton at the store.

7. Participate in a Local Fall Festival or Community Event

Check your local community calendar for free or low-cost fall festivals, farmers’ markets, or Halloween parades. Many towns and cities host pumpkin festivals, craft fairs, and outdoor concerts. Check the local library calendar or your town or base calendar for events. Attending these community gatherings is a great way to meet neighbors, support local businesses, and enjoy the season’s festive atmosphere and learn how the local area celebrates the season.

8. Start a Family Tradition of Gratitude

Autumn is a season of thanksgiving and reflection. Start a new family tradition by creating a gratitude jar. Throughout the season, encourage each family member to write down things they are thankful for on small pieces of paper and place them in the jar. Read them together on Thanksgiving or at the end of fall and reflect on all the positive moments you’ve shared.

Fall is the perfect season to slow down and appreciate the little things with your family. By taking advantage of these budget-friendly activities, you can explore your local area while creating warm, lasting memories. So, grab a sweater (or light sweater depending on where you currently call home), gather your loved ones, and make the most of this beautiful season

There is a big election coming in November. You may question whether your vote will make a difference.  For many, especially those in unique circumstances like military families, the logistics of voting can seem daunting, leading to apathy or disengagement. The recent history of tight election margins and the importance of every single vote in shaping the future cannot be overstated. Make sure your vote counts, whether you are overseas, serving outside your voter district or can’t get out to vote on the official day of the election.

Absentee, Mail Voting, Early Voting for Military Families

Military families often face unique challenges when it comes to voting. Frequent relocations, deployments, and living overseas can make it difficult to participate in elections. However, absentee and by-mail voting options are available to ensure that every member of the military community can exercise their right to vote, regardless of their location.

The Federal Voting Assistance Program (FVAP) is a crucial resource for military members, their families, and U.S. citizens living abroad. The FVAP provides information on how to register to vote, request an absentee ballot, and track the ballot’s status. Military families must understand that they can vote from anywhere in the world, and their votes will be counted just as if they were cast in person on Election Day.

To vote absentee, military members and their families must first register to vote. This can be done by filling out the Federal Post Card Application (FPCA), which also serves as a request for an absentee ballot. The FPCA can be submitted by mail, fax, or email, depending on the state’s requirements. Once registered, voters will receive absentee ballots, which must be filled out and returned by the state’s deadline. In many cases, the ballot can be returned electronically, making the process more accessible for those stationed abroad.

Most districts also offer voting by mail. As a military spouse who may be unable to get childcare or get down to vote the day of the election, voting by mail is critical. Voting by mail means that the ballot is received with plenty of time to complete and sent back in time for counting on election day.

Many districts also offer early voting. Check out your voting district for early voting locations. These may include local libraries, allowing for easy access before the election.

The importance of understanding and utilizing these options cannot be overstated. Every vote cast by military members and their families contributes to the democratic process and ensures their voices are heard, no matter where they are.

The History of Voter Apathy

Despite absentee and mail voting availability, voter apathy remains a significant issue in the United States.

In the U.S., voter turnout has varied widely over the years, with many elections seeing a substantial portion of eligible voters choosing not to participate. For example, in the 2016 presidential election, nearly 100 million eligible voters did not cast a ballot, representing about 43% of the eligible population. This level of disengagement has significant consequences, as it can lead to outcomes that do not accurately reflect the people’s will.

Several factors contribute to voter apathy, including a lack of trust in the political system, feelings of disillusionment with the candidates, and a sense of powerlessness. For military families, the added complexity of absentee voting can exacerbate these feelings, making it even more crucial to highlight the importance of their participation.

All the same, your vote makes a difference. This presidential election has already seen some unprecedented changes in the line-up. Do not decide not to participate because of the attitude “it won’t make a difference.” Do not be one of the nearly 100 million votes like in 2016 who did not register their beliefs or thoughts by voting for a presidential candidate.

Tight Margins and the Power of a Single Vote

The reality of tight election margins often challenges the belief that one vote doesn’t make a difference. History is replete with examples of elections being decided by a handful of votes, underscoring the importance of every individual’s participation.

The winner of the presidential election is determined by the electoral college.   When citizens cast their ballots in a presidential election, they are technically voting for a slate of electors pledged to their candidate of choice. These electors then cast their votes for president and vice president, with a majority of 270 out of 538 electoral votes required to win the presidency. While the electoral college setup may feel like one vote doesn’t make a difference, it does. One of the most famous examples is the 2000 U.S. presidential election, which hinged on a mere 537 votes in Florida. This razor-thin margin ultimately decided the presidency through the Electoral College, highlighting the profound impact that each vote can have. Similarly, in the 2008 Minnesota Senate race, Al Franken won by just 312 votes out of nearly 2.9 million cast, a difference of 0.01%.

The notion that a single vote is insignificant is not supported by history. In fact, in many cases, the opposite is true—individual votes have had a decisive impact on the outcome of elections.

The question of whether voting makes a difference can be answered with a resounding yes. For military families, absentee, by-mail, and early voting provide critical avenues to ensure their voices are heard, regardless of where they are stationed. Overcoming voter apathy and understanding the power of a single vote are essential steps in strengthening our democracy.

Every election presents an opportunity for change, and every vote cast shapes the future. By participating in the electoral process, military families and all citizens can help ensure that the outcomes reflect the true will of the people. In close races, your vote could be the one that makes all the difference.