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Set Yourself Up for Success in 2020 with Our Jumpstart Plan

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We’re already counting down to 2020 at MilitaryShoppers and just know it’s going to be the best year yet! But in order to make sure it’s great (instead of just wishing and hoping), we’re creating an action plan to plant seeds of success that will sprout all year long.

Set Yourself Up for Success in 2020 with Our Jumpstart Plan

Use these ideas to help jumpstart your new year!

Check Your Money

Yes, the DoD paychecks are regular, but just because you know how much will be coming in every two-ish weeks doesn’t mean you shouldn’t clean your financial house at the end of the calendar year.

Start by checking on your bank accounts, checking, savings and any other places you’ve stashed money, like a money market or CD. Ask these questions:

  • If I didn’t work for 6 months, could my family get by?
  • Is my money working for me? Is it earning as much interest as possible?
  • Do I have money set aside (and growing) for retirement?

Be brutally honest. It doesn’t pay (literally) to look at your finances with rose-colored glasses.

If you don’t have liquid (cash in the bank) assets to cover your basic bills for six months, it’s time to make a plan to get to that point. This might mean cutting down on extras, like trips or eating out. What can you cut to save money?

If you have a good amount stashed in the bank, make sure that everything above and beyond your emergency fund is working hard. This might mean diversifying your bank accounts into higher yield options or opening a CD. Talk to a financial adviser, either through your preferred bank or a privately-operated business, to understand your options and what might be best.

Okay, you’ve got money for “just in case” and the rest is earning decently, but what about after you’re done working 9-5 every day? Do you have money for retirement? If not, now is the time to chat with a financial adviser about how, when and where to create your retirement investments. A financial adviser can help you with that, too.

Check Your Credit and Spending

Where is your money going? Do you know?

If you don’t know, even just a rough guesstimate, you need to figure it out. Look at your bank accounts and credit/debit card statements. Break things down by category, then total up the spending per category and compare it to your total spending.

This will help you know just how much of your income is going to say, restaurants and bars, over the course of a year, quarter or month.

Pro Tip: there are tons of apps that can do this for you.

Clean House

Like literally clean it and clean it out. Start now, going room by room or by category. Consider each item and whether it’s useful and used regularly. Yes, we are going full Kondo.

There will be those items that you keep to use seasonally, like the grill stuff that only comes out in the summer or serving ware that makes an appearance at the holidays only. Totally fine.

But everything else should be considered and de-cluttered accordingly.

Once you’re whittled down, get to scrubbing. Start cleaning at the actual top of your house and work your way down. Save the floors for absolute last in each room.

It feels nice to start a new year with a fresh, clean house!

Photo Credit: © Halfpoint /Adobe Stock

Assess Your Fitness

Sure you can pound out a fitness test when needed, but is your fitness actually working for you?

One way to check is to log your food for a week or two. Maybe try after the New Year, just so you can enjoy the holiday goodies and desserts. Write down everything that goes into your mouth. You can use an app, like MyFitnessPal, to keep your food diary and get a good estimate of calories.

While you’re logging, write down your workouts and describe them. Every person needs a different workout style and routine. If you have questions, check with a personal trainer. Most on-base gyms offer consultations with the trainers on their staff. You can also check your military community for certified trainers and nutrition coaches. Many military spouses are entering the fitness and wellness industry!

Make a plan to create positive change. Even if it’s just swapping a granola bar (not terrible) for an apple (pretty great!) when you’re reaching for a snack, it’s a great first step! You could also push yourself to go an extra lap on the track, sneak in an extra rep or try a new exercise.

Update Your Resume

Even if you’ve got a sweet gig, it never hurts to have a fantastic resume and cover letter template in your back pocket.

Check over your resume and make sure it includes:

  • Degrees, licensures & certifications
  • Most recent relevant jobs to your “dream” position
  • Brief action-oriented descriptions of your job(s)

Your cover letter should be mostly a template, but ready to be tweaked whenever you need it. Cover letters and resumes should be tailored to fit the job you’re applying for each time.

If you need help, there are employment support centers on every military base that can help you create your resume and even adjust it for federal job applications.

Make Your Resolutions SMART

Identify your goals and the baby steps you’ll need to take along the way. Make a plan for success.

You’re going to make your goals SMART:

  • Specific: very clear cut and focused “I will do a 10-mile race”
  • Measurable: you can quantify the success with a number “I will run a 10-mile race in under 2 hours”
  • Attainable: spell out the mini-victories you’re going to reach along the way “I will run 5K, 10K and a 5K+10K races at less than an 11-minute pace on the way to running my 10-mile race”
  • Realistic: is this something that you can realistically achieve under the circumstances? Ex: if you’ve literally never run before, maybe start with a 5K and adjust your goal as you go
  • Timely: set a deadline “I will run a 10-mile race by April”

If you overshoot or reach your goal faster, you can always adjust. Once you reach your goal, make a new one!

Write your goal, and the benchmarks to success, somewhere you’ll see it daily.

Cheers to a successful 2020! Happy New Year!

What are your best tips for a successful new year? Share your wisdom in the comments!

4 Accidentally Vegan Meals Perfect for Winter

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Sure, you like a nice steak as much as the rest of us, but you’re also looking to sneak more veggies into your diet. Did you know that there are a ton of accidentally vegan meals you can DIY at home?

In fact, you might already be making vegan choices without even knowing it! Which meals do you already make and which ones are on your list?

Accidentally Vegan Meals You Can DIY at Home

Adding more veggies to your diet can come with a host of health benefits, liked lowered cholesterol and weight loss. Increasing your vegetable intake can be super simple. Try these recipes to get started.

Chili with Rice

Grab your slow cooker and rice maker for this simple set it and forget it meal that cooks while you’re at work!

To make chili you’ll need:

  • 3-4 cans beans of your choice
  • 1 chopped onion
  • 1-2 carrots, chopped (optional)
  • 1 large can diced tomatoes (32 oz)
  • 1/2 package frozen corn (optional)
  • 1-2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt, pepper, paprika, cinnamon (it’s the secret ingredient!)

Literally just dump everything into the slow cooker and turn it to low. And that’s it.

Your chili will simmer and cook all day. You’ll come home to a yummy, hearty bowl of comforting chili.

Set up your rice cooker in the morning. Program the timer to delay cooking or pop it on the minute you step in the door.

Serve your chili over rice for a completely vegan meal.

Have leftovers? Bake up some potatoes and top with reheated chili for a second day of yummy food.

Pasta & Homemade Sauce

Spaghetti, shells or rotini served with a hearty tomato sauce is a staple food in many homes, Did you know that it is likely vegan, too?

According to PETA, most packaged pasta sold in grocery stores is completely vegan! Just check the box for any animal products, like eggs or milk.

To DIY your own vegan pasta and homemade sauce, you’ll need:

  • 1-2 lbs of your favorite pasta
  • 32 oz can of crushed tomatoes
  • 32 oz can of diced tomatoes
  • 1 chopped onion
  • 1 clove chopped garlic
  • Salt, pepper, other herbs of your choice
  • Optional: mushrooms, eggplant, olives, broccoli, other veggies you like

Cook your pasta to your preference. In a separate saucepan, carmelize the onions. Once they are cooked to your preference, combine the two cans of tomatoes and the garlic in the pan. Add in the herbs and spices. If you’re adding more veggies, pop those in the pot, too.

Stir and simmer until any additional veggies are tender and cooked through.

Serve the pasta with a generous portion of sauce!

Customized Rice Bowls

Sometimes simple is the best. And this vegan rice bowl is endlessly customizable! Seriously, add in whatever veggies and toppings you prefer.

To set up your own vegan rice bowls, you’ll need:

  • Rice, cooked
  • Veggies: avocadoes, tomatoes, carrots, onions, eggplant, broccoli, cauliflower, seriously – anything goes!
  • Proteins: tofu, tempeh, beans
  • Toppings: soy sauce, peanut sauce, tahini, Thai sweet pepper sauce

Cook your rice and divide into bowls. Set out your veggies and toppings buffet style. Let everyone make their own combination for customized rice bowl.

Photo Credit: © sonyakamoz /Adobe Stock

Best of all, this dish can be served cold or hot, making it perfect for packed lunches or leftovers.

Comforting Lentil Stew

You love stew, warm and comforting on a cold day. We serve ours with hunks of crusty, fresh bread and (vegan) butter. However, our stew isn’t meat-based. Instead, we use lentils to add depth of flavor and tons of protein!

To slow cook your own lentil stew, you’ll need:

  • 1/2 to 1 lb lentil, any color (pre-soaking is optional)
  • 1-2 cans beans, any type
  • 3-4 medium carrots, peeled and roughly chopped
  • 4 medium potatoes, peeled and chunked
  • 1 onion, roughly chopped
  • 32 oz can diced tomatoes
  • 1 turnip, peeled and chunked (optional)
  • 2 sweet potatoes, peeled and chunked (optional)
  • 1-2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 32 oz container of veggie broth or stock
  • Seasoning: salt, pepper, paprika, rosemary, thyme, oregano, sage

If you want more tender lentils, you can soak them overnight and then drain them in the morning. You can also just start with dried lentils, they’ll just be more crunchy or need to cook longer.

Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker on high for 1-2 hours, then low for as long as you’d prefer. Taste test around the 6-hour mark for lentil doneness and to adjust the seasonings. Add the garlic at this time and stir.

Serve with fresh crusty bread and plenty of butter. This stew has a great broth base that’s perfect for dipping bread.

Have leftovers? Serve this reheated as is, the flavors get even better the next day! You could also pair the lentil stew with baked potatoes or rice for a hearty lunch or dinner.

What are your favorite accidentally vegan or vegetarian foods? Share a recipe in the comments!

Commissaries Expand Meatless Meat Offerings

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Eating healthy can be hard work, especially if you’re trying to cut down your meat intake. It’s just so yummy! And so easy to cook.

Starting soon, the Commissary will be adding more plant-based meat-replacements in varieties that even the pickiest of kids (or soldiers) can enjoy!

Commissaries Expand Meatless Meat Offerings

Meatless, plant-based proteins are all the rage as many Americans work to cut their animal protein consumption. Moving toward a diet with a higher percentage of plant-based foods can help cut greenhouse gas emissions and improve your personal health!

Commissaries around the world have been stocking some varieties of plant-based meat products for a few years. Stock has been added based on demand in various locations.

“Many commissaries have long sold vegetarian and plant-based meat products in keeping with consumer demand,” said Tracie Russ, DeCA’s sales director. “But demand has grown for more of these options, and so we’ve expanded our offerings in our worldwide network of stores.”

Now the Commissary is prepared to meet the needs of its customers with more options!

“The demand for these products is through the roof,” said Daniel Clary, DeCA’s meat and seafood category manager. “Whether it’s for health, convenience or taste, our patrons have demonstrated that they want plant-based meat. We are definitely looking at expanding our inventory of meat alternatives to match what our patrons want.”

To meet demand, four new additions, produced by Beyond Meat, will be added to Commissaries worldwide. Look for Beyond Burger, Brat Sausage, Hot Italian Sausage and Plant-Based Ground on shelves near you soon!

Photo Credit: ©ablokhin /Adobe Stock

“Every month we are seeing double-digit increases in sales; the plant-based products are in very high demand and our stores are excited to be able to offer this stock assortment to their shoppers,” said Andrea Coyle, store operations perishable team member.

These options should be rolling out in the very near future, joining products already on the shelf in many locations.

Allergen-Friendly, Meatless Meat Products

Many are seeking plant-based proteins due to dietary restrictions, like allergies or sensitivities. All of the Beyond Meat options are:

  • Certified Kosher
  • Vegan
  • Non-GMO project verified
  • No soy or gluten
  • 20 grams of plant protein per serving
  • 25 percent less saturated fat than ground beef
  • Cholesterol-free

That makes these products a great choice for people who are trying to stick to a strict diet.

 “It’s exciting to see that the commissary is working diligently to increase offerings to meet the multitude of lifestyle and dietary preferences of our military community while saving our patrons money in the process,” said Health and Wellness Program Manager Deborah Harris, MPH, RD, CDE.

Why “Fake” Burgers & Brats?

You might be shaking your head and rolling your eyes, wondering why anyone would willingly eat these “fake” meat replacements. And yes, these items aren’t for everyone.

But they can also help you to have a more balanced diet with increased fiber – something many Americans lack in their diets.

“With an increased focus on the benefit of protein in the diet, plant sources of protein help meet protein needs as well as offer a different nutritional profile than animal sources,” said Harris. “For example, plant-based protein sources also provide fiber, which most Americans lack in their diets.

However, for individuals who need to eat less meat for medical reasons or are choosing to do so as part of a lifestyle shift, having plant-based proteins can be an easier transition.

Using a plant-based protein to use in place of meat allow those making this dietary transition to:

  • Cooking familiar recipes
  • Eating familiar foods
  • Easing resistant family members into the new diet
  • Appeasing reluctant or picky eaters
  • Sneaking “healthier” foods into typical meals

All of this can make the switch from meat to, well, not meat simpler and more seamless.

How Do You Cook Meatless Meat?

Generally, these plant-based products should cook similarly to the real deal! Throw Beyond Burgers on the grill or cook in a skillet. Same with the sausages and ground “meat” products.

Use these as you would animal-based proteins.

Meatless burgers and sausages can be served at your next BBQ, with all the regular fixings! Serve with buns and all the fixings for a vegan or lower meat feast that everyone can enjoy.

Combine the ground “meat” with bread crumbs and eggs for a vegetarian meatball. Add these on top of pasta and sauce for a delicious, hearty meal.

Other options include:

  • Meatloaf
  • Chili
  • Brats & sauerkraut
  • Pasta dishes + sausage
  • Burgers
  • Casseroles
  • Hamburger helper-type sides

Often, these meat-like products are so similar in taste and texture to their real-deal counterparts that it may be challenging to distinguish between meat and not meat.

With demand going through the roof, hurry in soon to ensure that you can snag some Beyond Meat options ASAP.

Have you tried the plant-based “meat” options from the Commissary? What do you think? Sound off in the comments!

New School, New Challenges: How To Fix-Up Your MilKid’s Year ASAP

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School can be hard for military kids. The constant moves, always feeling like the new kid and different standards can seriously impact how your MilKid feels about school. Add in deployments or other bumps in the military life road and K-12 school can start to become a mess.

But you can fix your military child’s school year starting right now. In fact, the end of the calendar year is a great time to take stock, look back and plan ahead.

New School, New Challenges: How To Fix-Up Your MilKid’s Year ASAP

Let’s be real: there is no one-size-fits all solution for school issues of any sort. But there are some common themes that run through many struggles and that can impact a majority of military children.

New to School & Feeling Alone

Maybe you’ve just PCSed, moved over the last summer or simply progressed to the next higher level of school. Whatever the case, your child is new. Even with almost 4 months of school under their belt, your child is still not quite feeling connected to the community.

It’s definitely hard to feel like you don’t belong. Here are some options to fix up your MilKid’s school year ASAP:

  • Contact the teacher: works best in the lower grades; let them know your concerns
  • Work with the school counselor: share your concerns and ask about options
  • Extracurriculars: think beyond school-based options and include community-run sports, clubs and organizations
  • Therapy: sometimes talking to someone completely separate from school and home can sometimes help uncover issues
  • Connect with old friends: set up video chats with friends from previous duty stations; connecting with old friends can help boost confidence to make new friends
Photo Credit: ©vejaa /Adobe Stock

Someone is Deploying Soon

A fact of military life is deployment. But just because it’s “normal” doesn’t make it easier.

But you can build out your support team with these tips:

  • Share with the teacher: respect OPSEC, but share as much as possible
  • Let the admin and counselor know: there might be extra resources available to support your child or family
  • Keep communication open: let the teacher and school know about changes with the deployment or your child at home
  • Look for changes: dropping grades, changing behavior and social differences can all hint at bigger issues; let the teacher know if you notice these things, ask that the teacher do the same

Getting Ready to PCS Soon

The process of leaving can be hard. Every child acts and reacts differently. Keeping your school and community in the loop can help to make PCSing easier.

Try these tips:

  • Reach out to the school counselor: use support groups and resources
  • Tell the teacher: ask for contact information for classmates; request recommendation letters, final assessments and one last report card
  • Request the cumulative file: talk to the school’s administration or front office; ask for a copy of your child’s permanent record and let then know when and where you’ll be moving
  • Create a contact list: plan to keep in touch with friends – set up an email group or other chat group, pre-address envelopes and put video chats on your schedule

Grades Aren’t Looking So Hot

Every child can struggle with grades, regardless of military connections. How you react to lower than expected grades can help your child get back on track.

Try these tips:

  • Talk to the Teacher: start by talking to the teacher(s); use email, phone calls or in-person meetings to chat about trouble spots and ways to help
  • Ask for resources: there might be extra options in school to help your child succeed, like differentiated assignments, extra tutoring or other small groups for learning
  • Keep good data: make a file of your child’s grades, assignments, tests and other work; keep track of where those trouble spots are popping up routinely – use this data when you talk to the teacher
  • Get a tutor: free tutoring is available to military families through Tutor.com, but hiring someone to work with your child in-person could be a good option; ask the school for a list of teachers who tutor or reach out to the military community for recommendations
  • Request testing: if nothing is working, and you’ve tried a lot of things, you can formally request special education testing to see if your child might qualify for an IEP

You’re Feeling Disconnected & Alone

Maybe everything is going well for your child, but you’re the one feeling out of sorts and lonely. Try these things:

  • Join the PTA: yes, it’s another thing to do, but you’ll also get access to their membership rosters – which means contact info for parents in your child’s class
  • Find just one: start with one person; reach out to the parents of your child’s best friend or talk to someone at practice on Saturday – it just takes one friend
  • Use the military community: hop into the digital community and send a request for a buddy out to the hive mind – someone will respond and you’ll gain a new friend
  • Be a joiner: don’t limit your new found love of joining things to the PTA, try other groups like Toast Makers, rotary groups or fitness communities; your new friends might be waiting there

How have you helped your child succeed at school? We’d love to learn from your wisdom!

Hustle to Make the 2019 Holiday Shipping Deadline

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Prepping a care package to send to a military-connected loved one this holiday season? As of right now, it’s officially go time! You’ll need to hustle to get your presents and cards ready in order to make the holiday shipping deadline.

Photo Credit: ©AYA images /Adobe Stock

Hustle to Make the 2019 Holiday Shipping Deadline

Run, don’t walk, to your closest USPS location to drop your parcels and envelopes so that they arrive in time for the holidays!

CONUS Holiday Shipping Deadlines

You have a little more wiggle room if you’re sending mail within the lower 48 US states.

  • Retail Ground: December 14
  • First Class: December 20
  • Priority: December 21
  • Priority Express: December 23

Just because you have a smidge longer to procrastinate doesn’t mean that you should hold off on sending your items. It’s better to be on the early side to ensure your packages arrive on time.

Alaska & Hawaii USPS Deadlines

If you’re sending things to Hawaii, you’re going to want to watch these dates:

  • First Class: December 18
  • Priority: December 19
  • Priority Express: December 21

Alaska-bound mail has similar deadlines for their Christmas delivery:

  • First Class: December 19
  • Priority: December 19
  • Priority Express: December 21

APO/FPO/DPO AE Zip 090-092 Mail Deadlines

Everything needs to be shipped, completely, by December 18. But that’s the most expensive option. If you’re looking to save some money, watch these dates:

  • Retail Ground: November 6
  • Space Available: November 27
  • Parcel Airlift: December 4
  • First Class and Priority Mail: December 11
  • Priority Express Military: December 18

APO/FPO/DPO AE Zip 093 Holiday Shipping Deadlines

If you’re mailing to or from an AE zip code that begins with 093, you’ll want to mark these dates:

  • Retail Ground: November 6
  • Space Available: November 27
  • Parcel Airlift: December 4
  • First Class and Priority Mail: December 9
  • Priority Express Military: None

APO/FPO/DPO AE Zip 094-099 Holiday Mail Deadlines

Like our first group of zip codes in OCONUS military locations, sending mail to or from AE FPO/APO/DPO addresses with zip codes beginning with 094-099 should watch these dates:

  • Retail Ground: November 6
  • Space Available: November 27
  • Parcel Airlift: December 4
  • First Class and Priority Mail: December 11
  • Priority Express Military: December 18

APO/FPO/DPO AE Zip 340 Mail Deadlines

Everything sent to or from AE zips starting with 340 needs to be mailed by December 18 in order to ensure arrival before December 25. Keep these dates in mind when you’re planning:

  • Retail Ground: November 6
  • Space Available: November 27
  • Parcel Airlift: December 4
  • First Class and Priority Mail: December 11
  • Priority Express Military: December 18

APO/FPO/DPO AP Zip 962-966 Mailing Deadlines

For packages, letters and cards headed to the Asian-Pacific region, everything will need to be posted by December 18. Mark these dates to ensure arrival by Christmas:

  • Retail Ground: November 6
  • Space Available: November 27
  • Parcel Airlift: December 4
  • First Class and Priority Mail: December 11
  • Priority Express Military: December 18

Check It Twice & Pack It Nice

Always confirm shipping deadlines with your local military of civilian USPS locations. If these dates don’t work for you, it can pay to check with other shipping services, like UPS and FedEx. However, you may pay a premium for their shipping options.

When packing holiday packages, ensure that there are no prohibited items, like alcohol and drugs. For mail headed OCONUS, check the shipping restrictions for your intended recipient’s location.

For international mail, even if it’s being sent to or from a military post office, it’s important to complete a US customs form. There is a quick short-form option that’s easier to fill out. Pick up a few at your local USPS office. Make sure the form is filled out correctly and all information is accurate.

When packing items, take care with potentially fragile things. Adding some extra padding or using bubble wrap can help to ensure a break-free delivery! It’s also helpful to pack really breakable items so that they are surrounded by other items that can provide cushioning in the event of a drop or hard bump. Shipping can be rough!

For food gifts, double-check the expiration date on pre-packaged items. If you’re sending a special batch of homemade goodies, stick to dry and dense items, like biscotti, or use tried-and-true recipes, like canning jar cake.

Pro tip: don’t pack food items in with other non-food items, especially scented things. Smells can mingle and change during shipping due to proximity and varying external conditions, like temperature, altitude and humidity. When in doubt, pack things separately!

No matter what you are sending or where it is headed, be sure to secure all boxes prior to shipping. Use packing tape to really seal all edges and prevent the box from breaking apart in transit.

Add a clearly written address label to the box or envelope and you’re ready to send!

What is your favorite gift to mail to military loved ones for the holidays? We’d love to learn from your ideas!

Why Are Military Spouses Still Being Called on To Do All the Things?

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We’ve moved, yet again, to a new town, a new unit and a new life (kind of). My spouse has added my contact information to all the things. And then the requests come flooding in. Not requests to be friends, but to volunteer my time in a professional capacity.

Folks, it’s 2019. And military spouses just don’t have the time to be doing all of the work for free.

And yet…

Why Are Military Spouses Still Being Called on To Do All the Things?

I love volunteering. I’ve actually volunteered since childhood. From planting gardens with my Brownie troop to collecting clothes for the less fortunate, I honestly like to give of myself and my time.

Even in small ways, like taking care of a friend’s children for a few hours so they can run errands, I know that performing acts of kindness for others without expecting compensation makes the world a better place.

Here’s the thing: the military seems to run on volunteers. No, I’m not talking about our all-volunteer force. I’m talking about the spouses running things behind the scenes.

From homecomings and welcome aboard briefs to larger organizations on base, military spouse volunteers are the glue that is holding it all together. Many spouses are spearheading large roles and tasks, jobs that a professional would be overseeing in the civilian world.

And they’re doing it all for free. Sometimes there might be a certificate of recognition or hearty thanks offered, but often these tasks are just completed without acknowledgment.

Volunteering Looks Good on Your Resume

Or so I’ve been told, countless times. I’ve yet to use my volunteer experiences, formal or informal, as a stepping stone into a paid position as an adult.

Instead, it’s my paid work – in any of my varied jobs over the years – that has paved the way to a new position. When I’ve brought up my volunteering, the interviewers didn’t really seem to care.

So, does volunteering look good on resumes or is that just a line?

Honestly, I’m not sure.

Unpaid Work + Extra Costs = What?

If I wanted to volunteer today, right now, I would need childcare for my youngest. Preschool isn’t free and neither are reliable sitters.

Conveniently all of the positions most likely to lead to employment happen exactly when my spouse is at work. They’re also not child-friendly. Especially since most of these roles aren’t just a quick pop-in or work-at-home gigs. Nope, they’re all multiple hours per day, several days a week.

Which means that I will be paying to volunteer.

Sure, I might have that extra cash to throw around in order to give of myself. Then again, we’re a military family and not exactly rich either.

So what exactly am I going to be going into debt for? I’ll be working for free in the hope that one day, maybe, this organization will pay me?

Why would they do that when I’m, wait for it, working for free to begin with?!?!?

The roles available to spouses are professional-type positions. Center staffer (USO), financial consultant (NMCRS), event organizer (family readiness assistant) and medical records assistant (Red Cross). Yet we have military spouses filling them, for free.

Unpaid Work is Extra Stress

I ran myself ragged as a family readiness assistant. And now I see other military spouses doing the same thing in their volunteer roles.

Photo Credit: ©reewungjunerr /Adobe Stock

We are treating these positions like jobs, even though we are not being paid. Likely, we are paying for childcare and support in order to fill these volunteer roles. Ironic, isn’t it?

At the end of the day, we take all that stress home with us. All the stress of our “fun” volunteer role becomes our baggage.

It’s extra stress on the level of being in paid employment, but without the paycheck.

This dedication is what makes our military community tick and hum. Military spouses take ownership of every role they are given. We take this stuff seriously!

But is it fair to expect employee-level work from a volunteer?

What Would Happen Without Volunteers?

I don’t think the youngest military spouses (and some of us older hands) are quite buying the line about volunteer roles leading to employment. We haven’t see the fruit from that tree yet, and it’s a line that’s been tossed around for at least a decade.

More and more military spouses are achieving advanced education, earning professional credentials and seeking paid employment. Their family needs two paychecks to make ends meet. Just the military earnings alone won’t cut it.

We might be coming to a reckoning in the military community: a world without rampant volunteerism.

I don’t think that’s a bad thing either. It’s time that we weigh just how much benefit unpaid military spouse labor brings into our communities daily. Then, it’s time we start paying people. Because these things don’t run themselves.

If you’d like to still have family readiness groups, relief societies and community spaces to use, someone needs to be there running things. It’s probably going to be a military spouse. And that person should be paid.

What do you think would happen if military spouse volunteers disappeared?

Stop Running Around for the Holidays

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November rolls around and the to-do lists for the holidays start to get longer and longer. It’s not just the holiday stuff, it’s the visits. That endless cycle of running between houses, seeing all the people and making endless trips.

Every single year, we make the trek to be with family and friends back home. Only to spend the entire trip running back and forth between everyone’s homes.

Frankly, it’s exhausting and kind of disheartening to always be the one doing the heavy lifting during visits.

Stop Running Around for the Holidays

This year, make a resolution to say “no” to the parade of visits, flights and car rides. Say “no” to attempting to see everyone and please everyone over the holidays.

Make Some Decisions

As a family, decide how you want your holiday season to look this year.

  • Where will you go?
  • Where will you stay?
  • How will you get there (or not)?
  • What will you do?
  • Who will you see?

Once you have your vision, make your travel plans from there. Keep sanity in mind as you make your itinerary.

Let Them Come to You

If you are going home, set some clear boundaries. There is no reason for you to be running yourselves ragged traveling all over creation to see people.

One of the most powerful things you can do is share your plan:

“We’ll be at (location) from (dates). If you’d like to see us, please let us know and we’ll share our specific plans.”

This puts the onus on your extended family and friends to come to you. After all, they live in the area you’re visiting and haven’t traveled from far away.

You have. Let them come to you.

Or you could simply say:

“We’ll be making reservations at (restaurant) on (date). Should we add your family to the reservation?”

Again, this puts the responsibility on others to join you. And it limits your travel – a win no matter how you spin it!

Simply Stay Put

Staying home is underrated. Traveling on or around the holidays is awful whether you’re driving or flying.

So don’t travel. Stay at home instead!

If you’re feeling welcoming, you could invite folks down to see you. Just be clear about whether you’ll be hosting them in your home or if they’ll need to make reservations elsewhere.

Photo Credit: ©Monkey Business /Adobe Stock

You’ll feel so much more relaxed! It’s fun to create your own traditions as just a small family unit. Or build your community by sharing events with local friends or your unit.

Take a Vacation

Another option is to seriously escape it all: go on a legit vacation. Book your family on a trip to somewhere fun – all together!

Again, you could invite your extended family or friends along on your adventure. Or go it solo with just immediate family.

Either way, you’ll escape the forced marches between different sides of the family. And that’s a victory.

Celebrate at Another Time

Skip the inflated ticket prices and crowded highways, celebrate Christmas during March or Thanksgiving in October. Find a time that works for everyone and commit!

This way you’ll get to have your cake and eat it, too. On the actual holiday, you can create traditions with your own family with some sanity to boot. At another time, you can host a big celebration with your extended family and friends.

Keep Your Sanity Front & Center

If it’s not making you happy, say no. No excuses needed.

Driving around, flying hither and yon – it’s just not relaxing or celebratory. It’s not what the holidays are supposed to be about.

Instead, this year, put yourself and your family first. Take a break. Do your own thing. Set boundaries and don’t force yourself to do ALL the traveling all the time.

It’s okay to say no. It’s fine to pass up on opportunities. And it’s good to ask those you love to make the journey to see you for a change.

No matter what you decide to do this holiday season, make sure your own sanity is coming first.

How will you be saving your sanity this holiday season?

Tricare Benefits for Nursing Moms – Explained!

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You’ve got a baby on the way! But you’re also not sure about how you’ll juggle life along with lack of sleep plus breastfeeding. Really, you need support and some common sense explanations about how to make motherhood and military life work together.

Tricare Benefits for Nursing Moms – Explained!

Tricare has a benefit for this exciting time in your life, and The Breastfeeding Shop can help military-connected new mothers navigate the system.

The Breastfeeding Shop was founded in 2014 specifically to support military families looking to nurse their new baby.

“I am a huge proponent of breastfeeding and supporting new moms as well,” explains The Breastfeeding Shop founder Patty Gatter. “I also wanted to help support our military families in some way.  So this seemed to be the perfect way to accomplish all of these things.”

The Breastfeeding Shop offers military moms an easy way to access their Tricare-covered breastfeeding supplies, including breast pumps and milk storage bags as well as some replacement parts.

Get Yourself a Prescription

All new mothers are authorized breast pumps, paid for via Tricare. This benefit applies to each live birth event, which means that Tricare beneficiaries can get a new breast pump for their first child and every child born subsequently!

That’s important since breast pumps can wear out due to age or frequent use.

The first step to accessing the Tricare breast pump benefit is to obtain a prescription. According to Gatter, expecting mothers can and should request a prescription for a breast pump from their OBGYN at or after 27 weeks gestation.

Any prescription form will work, as long as it is properly signed by the appropriate medical practitioner.

“Tricare requires the prescription to have the Mom’s name on it, what type of breast pump, electric or hospital grade, signed and dated by the ordering physician, nurse practitioner, midwife or physician assistant,” says Gatter.

Moms-to-be can submit their own prescription via The Breastfeeding Shop’s easy to use online form. If that’s not possible, trained staff members at the Shop can call the doctor’s office to confirm the prescription. You can also call 866-255-6779 for assistance in submitting an order or use the mobile app.

All prescriptions should include a diagnosis code, length of need (at least 36 months) and a medical provider’s signature.

Photo Credit: ©Kristin Gründler
/Adobe Stock

Get a Handle on Insurance

Working through Tricare’s red tape can be daunting, especially when already sleep-deprived.

Luckily, The Breastfeeding Shop can and will handle all the paperwork for Tricare beneficiaries!

“We want it to be as simple as possible,” Gatter explains. “We know a new mom has a lot to do! We submit the claim and all necessary paperwork on the mom’s behalf.”

That’s it:

  • submit your prescription
  • order your pump and supply kit
  • let The Breastfeeding Shop handle the paperwork

Keeping Your Milk & Pump Safe

Once the pumping starts, parents need places to store expressed milk. New military moms are authorized 90 milk storage bags when the pump is first issued.

While more than 90 bags aren’t included in the initial prescription for the breast pump, more storage bags could be ordered with an additional prescription.

Maintaining clean tubes, valves and flanges are essential to keeping a breast pump in good working order. All of these parts are covered by Tricare. New moms can order these supplies 30 days after birth through The Breastfeeding Shop.

For the initial set of replacement supplies, a new Rx is not required,” says Gatter. “However, if they need additional replacement items after that, they will need an Rx for each new order.”

Not all breast pump parts fit every mom. Breasts and nipples come in different shapes and sizes! New mothers can now order flanges in different sizes through The Breastfeeding Shop, all covered under Tricare.

“They have also added to the benefit to cover Supplemental Nursing Systems (SNS feeder) and nipple shields (an RX is required for those),” Gatter explains.

In addition, Gatter explains that some new moms might also be eligible for maternity support belts, postpartum compression, positioning wedge and compression socks to be covered as well.

Supporting Military Moms Around the World

The Breastfeeding Shop is committed to supporting military-connected mothers and moms-to-be no matter where they are stationed. Breast pumps and accessories can be shipped within the US as well as to APO and FPO addresses overseas.

“We are appreciative of our relationships with all regions of Tricare, Tricare West, Tricare East and Tricare Overseas,” says Gatter. “We have worked very closely with them throughout their policy changes to stay properly informed.”

While other breastfeeding supplies providers have disassociated from serving Tricare beneficiaries, The Breastfeeding Shop continues to serve military families.

“We have not backed away and have continued business as usual,” says Gatter. “A lot of companies have stopped supplying accessories for a variety of reasons. We have not and continue to honor the policy and our contract/ relationship with Tricare.”

Going forward, Gatter and The Breastfeeding Shop are on a mission to support military moms who choose to breastfeed or use expressed breast milk to nourish their infants.

“My mission is to be the best and most helpful breast pump supplier. to listen to the moms and have a good understanding of their needs and help them address those needs,” she says. “I always tell my staff that we don’t provide breast pumps – and the look at me like I’m crazy – I say, we are in the business of helping new moms.”

Have you used your Tricare benefits to cover a breast pump? What was your experience? Sound off in the comments!

Credit Card Benefits Many Military Families Don’t Know They’ve Earned

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Editor’s Note: This is not an endorsement of any mentioned credit card by MilitaryShoppers. Nor is this article intended to serve as sound financial guidance. It is simply to inform military troops and families about additional benefits of which they may be unaware. Proceed at your own risk.

If you’ve ever tried to break a rental agreement with your PCS or deployment orders, you’ve used the Servicemember’s Civil Relief Act (SCRA). In short, it’s a group of protections that gives military members a little bit of wiggle room and grace for when the DoD throws a wrench in their plans.

But there is a little more to the SCRA than just breaking your lease. Did you know that there are credit cards that give you a break, too?

Credit Card Benefits Many Military Families Don’t Know They’ve Earned

There are hidden perks and benefits, especially with some exclusive or high level cards, available only to military members! And you might be missing out on this deal.

Lower Your Interest Rates

If you have debt, like a loan or credit card payment, from before you joined up, you can use the SCRA to lower what you owe monthly.

For example, if you bought a car before you enlisted with a higher interest rate, you can use your SCRA benefits to lower that rate to below 10%, according to Military Benefits.

This is true for pre-service credit card debt, too.

But be warned: any debt you incur post-enlistment or commissioning is yours. Avoid payday loans and car dealers located right outside of base. Many people have learned hard lessons trying in invoke SCRA interest benefits on expensive loans from these types of places.

Photo Credit: ©Tippapatt /Adobe Stock

More Than Interest Lowering

Did you know that you can get a whole lot more than your interest lowered?

Many credit cards, especially higher end ones, offer free annual fees and/or lower interest rates to qualified applicants.

For example, American Express and Chase both offer a break on annual fees. That’s a big deal since these cards both charge several hundred dollars to members, just to have the card!

But membership with both companies, and several others, comes with additional perks that make life easier for military families.

Airport Perks with High-End Credit Cards

When my family traveled back from OCONUS last summer, we enjoyed open bars and buffets at the airport. And we didn’t pay a dime. How?

Our AMEX Platinum and Chase Sapphire cards. Both cards offer active duty troops free membership, with verification of course.

According to CreditKarma, AMEX Platinum is the best choice for military families on the go (which is all of us, am I right?).

Honestly, we travel so much more often and so much easier than before. All because AMEX waived the $550 annual membership fee based on our active duty status.

Instead of hunting for an uncomfortable seat at our gate, we lounge in plush easy chairs. You get premium airport lounge access, baby! That means yummy nibbles at the buffet and often an open bar, too. Plus, and best of all, sparkling clean restrooms!

AMEX Platinum cardholders have free access to several networks of lounges at airports around the world, including many in the US. With complimentary membership (as a cardholder) to Priority Pass, you can find lounges from Providence, RI to Bangkok. Plus, many international airports also host Centurion Lounges. These exclusive clubs are open only to AMEX Platinum members or higher.

Chase Sapphire Reserve cardholders also get access to Priority Pass Lounges, according to Military Money Manager.

Both cards also offer options to get a certain amount reimbursed during travel.

AMEX Platinum gives back up to $200 in baggage fees and other expenses on one qualifying airline per year. You select your preferred airline annually. Sapphire Reserve reimburses up to $300 per year in travel expenses. Military Money Manager shows receipts from Uber and Priceline being reimbursed!

Before You Get to the Gate

Want to fly through airport security like a VIP? Your cards have got you covered!

Both AMEX Platinum and Chase Sapphire Reserve offer reimbursement on your TSAPreCheck, up to $100 every four years. PreCheck is free with your active duty CAC, but your dependent and kids might enjoy joining you in the faster line.

Both cards also offer the option to enroll in Global Entry. This program means that in certain countries, you’ll be able to breeze through immigration quicker and more easily. All you need is your passport and fingerprints! Global Entry is for low-risk travelers and everyone is screened prior to enrollment.

Once You Land in Your Destination

We stayed at the St. Regis in Bangkok and Osaka – for free. Thanks to the benefits programs of our Chase Sapphire and AMEX Platinum cards.

Yes, you read the right. St. Regis, Bangkok and free. There was a champagne toast offered at sunset. Also free.

Both cards offer great perks for points, hence the super upscale hotel stays. Trust me, we couldn’t have stayed at either property otherwise. Military family, remember?

Your hotel benefits aren’t limited to just those ultra-classy establishments. As a cardholder, you get upgraded status at Bonvoy properties, which combines the old Marriott and SPG groups of hotels, as well as Hilton. Upgrades mean you can get access to complimentary upgrades on rooms, free internet, expedited check-in, complimentary cocktails or even a free breakfast buffet.

Big Savings on Travel with a Free Credit Card

With how much much our family travels, even just every few years for PCS season or home for the holidays, keeping our AMEX and Chase cards on hand has saved us a bundle.

  1. We haven’t paid for a meal at the airport in years
  2. Checking email or social media between flights is free on high speed internet
  3. Keeping our kids entertained during travel is easier with enclosed lounges that offer food and space to stretch
  4. Our hotel rooms are larger (again, kids)
  5. We love our free breakfast buffets
  6. We turn our everyday spending into tangible benefits

On that last one, we saved up enough points just through normal spending on groceries, gas and other typical purchases that we were able to upgrade my seat to business class on a trans-Pacific flight.

While you still have to pay your credit card bills, having a card that makes your on-the-go military life a little better is 100% worth it. Just be sure to budget smartly and pay your bills on time!

Have you used the SCRA to get a high-end credit card fee waived? Tell us your favorite little known military money hack!

Why Raising Kids in a Village is Amazing

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My kids run out the door, and after a quick peek I know that I can keep on prepping dinner. When I run out of Tylenol at night, I know I’ve got some just a quick phone call away.

I’m raising my kids in an incredible village – and it’s amazing.

Why Raising Kids in a Village is Amazing

Finding a space like this is rare in the world. But it’s something you find on every single military base around the world.

No, our housing situation might not be amazing. But the neighbors truly do make up for what’s lacking.

Built-In Parent Friends

Parenting, especially when you are often doing things solo, is a rough journey. Military housing and military communities offer a support system – built right in.

No matter where you are on the parenting journey, there is a neighbor going through something similar.

When I was first pregnant, I lived off-base. I didn’t know my neighbors and only had my colleagues at school for support. Even the unit wasn’t supportive since it was an unorthodox structure.

I had almost no one to talk to about pregnancy, birth or what life is like with a newborn. It was lonely.

Contrast that to my second pregnancy, when we lived on base. My friend across the parking lot had a kid the same age as my oldest. My neighbor right next door had just had a baby six months earlier. And someone down the block was a pediatric nurse.

All my worries, problems and even medical questions were instantly answered. Everyone I needed was right there, in my on base community.

Immediate Friends for Kids

My kids have never known what it’s like to be the new kid because they have spent most of their (admittedly short) lives living on military bases. They were never the new kid because everyone was the new kid, at the same time.

My daughter’s best friends moved into their houses at exactly the same time we did. They were all new together.

By the end of week one, they were roaming our cul de sac as a tiny three-year-old mob.

They learned to ride bikes the exact same day, collected bugs and generally ruled the community playground.

Photo Credit: © Monkey Business /Adobe Stock

Immediate friends were plentiful in my little village.

Collective Parenting at Its Finest

When I moved into my last neighborhood on base, all of the parents seemed to share a collective parenting strategy. The consequence for one kid that stepped out of line was the same for everyone.

It was never really ever talked about, but it happened nonetheless.

Perhaps at some point, we had some informal chats about stuff or talked things through in the moment. But mostly, one parent spoke up and the rest of us followed along.

It’s also what made it easy to give my kids a lot more freedom.

They were able to run outside to play because I knew another parent would watch them while I wrapped up dinner or finished a few chores. Don’t get me wrong, this wasn’t a situation where my kids were running amuck 100% of the time without me.

No, we swapped our duties so that everyone operated more efficiently. I would come out once I had my inside things under control so that another parent could pop into their house for a bit. We rotated supervision.

That’s not something I’ve ever experienced before. Having that type of a community, the kind where you feel comfortable giving freedom to your children and still getting all the things done, is so freeing.

We Need More Villages for Our Kids

In the modern era, we seem to have moved away from neighborhoods like this. We don’t see kids outside playing after school. Instead, everyone is inside because parents have stuff to do, kids have homework and someone needs to be supervising every single second.

Living in a village with that unspoken community parenting agreement made it easier for my family to thrive. And we need that again in America.

Kids should play outside, parents should share the burden and everyone should support each other. This is just life on military bases around the world. But it needs to make a revival in cul de sacs and neighborhoods off base, too.

Our nation would be better for living together, sharing joys and responsibilities more freely. It would certainly make getting dinner on the table and keeping kids occupied safely a little easier!

How have you leaned on your military village to raise your family? Share your story in the comments!