Military Life News

Military Life News, Commissary Rewards and Military Discounts

You are here: Home / Front Page Buttons

Prepping Your Family for a PCS Move

By

Helpful tips to make everyone look forward to the adventure

By Marguerite Cleveland

The first PCS move I can remember as a child was a three-week adventure I still recall to this day even though it was over 40 years ago. It was an epic trip from San Diego, California to Newport, Rhode Island with five kids, our dachshund Cleopatra, Mom and Dad; all in a Pontiac Station wagon. What an adventure it was crossing the desert at night to avoid the heat, seeing Monument Valley, the Grand Canyon, and Mesa Verde National Park. We got snowed in when in Colorado and ate spaghetti for six straight meals while visiting family (the go to meal in the 70’s for lots of people) in Louisiana. What could have been a challenge for many was a great adventure due to my Mother’s always positive demeanor and my Father’s excellent planning and organizing skills.

PCS moves can be challenging and stressful, but we all signed up for this life so embrace it and look at the positives.  My Mother began prepping us about three months out. “I’ve got the go bug,” she would say. “I am so tried of living here and ready to see somewhere new.” I am sure she had mixed feelings and would miss her friends, but she never let us know anything other than she was so excited to be moving. I have to say it was infectious. We never worried about leaving friends behind because she had us so focused on the fun places we were going to see and all the new people we would meet. So that is tip number one. No matter how you feel embrace the PCS and get your kids onboard. Act like you’re happy even if you aren’t because believe me whining and complaining especially in front of the children will make it much worse. I have made over 30 moves in my lifetime and I can tell you there is always something you can focus on at your new location that will bring you joy.

Plan, plan and more planning. Research your trip and make reservations well ahead of time but make sure they are cancelable. Also, don’t try to ironman it and wear yourself out. You get paid travel pay for 350 miles a day. Take advantage of that and drive 7 to 8 hours a day when traveling with kids. Always book a hotel with a pool. It’s a great way to get out all that pent-up energy after a long day in the car. Save money by bringing a cooler and plan picnic lunches. Always carry snacks.  You never know when you will hit a long stretch of road with no stops. I still have a trip notebook from one of our many moves. Give each child a notebook, colored pencils (crayons can melt in summer heat) glue sticks and safety scissors to journal their trip. We would stop at visitor’s center to get brochures to use in our books. One of my Mother’s most important rules. Stop every two hours and everybody out of the car to stretch and use the facilities. This was always nonnegotiable and avoided unnecessary stops.

To this day I still get the “Go Bug”, just that sense of wanting to see and do something new. So even though you may not be happy about your move try to focus on the positives not the negatives. It really does make a difference.

Marguerite Cleveland is a freelance writer who specializes in human interest and travel stories. She is a military brat, a veteran and now a military spouse.  Her military experience is vast as the daughter of a Navy man who served as an enlisted sailor and then Naval Officer. She served as an enlisted soldier in the reserves and on active duty, then as an Army Officer. She currently serves as a military spouse. She lives in the Pacific Northwest with her husband and two sons. Visit her website www.WanderWordsWine.com

Make 2019 the Year to Get Your Degree

By

How Can Military Spouses Find the Money For It?

By Marguerite Cleveland

So you’ve decided you want to go back to school, now what? A great place to start is Military One Source Spouse Education and Career Opportunities. This website is a wealth of information to get you on track. Get information on finding the perfect career for you. Learn about the education requirements for the career you are interested in. Are you ready for employment and how to find out? Also learn about career connections that can help you land your dream job. You may find you don’t need a four year degree to pursue your dream. For example the local community college near where I live offers a computer certificate and graduates can expect jobs with median salaries of $60K and with the 2 year degree a median salary of $80K. So it is important to do your research.

Visit your Installation Education Center and find out what programs are available to you. Many installations have classes offered right on the base from a variety of colleges. If you find yourself stationed OCONUS this is a good way to continue your education. The centers also serve as testing centers for a variety of professional tests and certifications as well as college tests such as CLEP and the SATs.

If you are a junior military spouse you are eligible for the Military Spouse Career Advancement Account Scholarship or MYCAA. This program helps you to pursue a license, certificate, certifications or an associate degree to help you get the education you need for a portable career. One that can move with you when you PCS around the globe. You can receive up to $2000 a year and a total of $4000. You can use your scholarship at any institution approved for participation in the program.  For more information call Military One Source at 800.342.9647, Operators are available 24/7 but the career counselors are available M-F 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. EST and Sat. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. You can also find out more about the program at www.militaryonesource.mil.

There are a variety of scholarships available to military spouses. Many military spouse clubs offer scholarships to military spouses. I know one base that offered a $15K and a $10K scholarship to a military spouse and only had five spouses apply that year!  The amounts were not disseminated a head of time as they never know how much money they will raise.  Many military organizations and unit associations offer scholarships. A quick GOOGLE search will give you tons of options like the Thanks USA Scholarship that provides up to $3,000 in funds for school or the National Military Family Association which offers a variety of military spouse scholarships. Also many scholarship search engines will let you filter by military.

There are so many opportunities now for going to school. I managed to cobble my four year degree together with a combination of tests, traditional classes, credit for military experience and since there was no internet at the time, a video course.  Today you can go to school online which is great with frequent moves, but you have to be disciplined to complete a program this way. You can also do a mixture of live classes and online courses, look at what fits your needs. Also don’t just lock into college as the only source of education. Consider technical schools, apprenticeships, internships or vocational schools. Some unions even offer courses to learn a trade. The key is to know yourself and what is going to be a good fit for you.  What are your educational goals? Post in the comments below.

Marguerite Cleveland is a freelance writer who specializes in human interest and travel stories. She is a military brat, a veteran and now a military spouse.  Her military experience is vast as the daughter of a Navy man who served as an enlisted sailor and then Naval Officer. She served as an enlisted soldier in the reserves and on active duty, then as an Army Officer. She currently serves as a military spouse. She lives in the Pacific Northwest with her husband and two sons. Visit her website www.WanderWordsWine.com

Host the Ultimate New Year’s Eve Party with Help from the Commissary

By

The countdown is on to 2019. That means it’s time to firm up your New Year’s Eve plans. Instead of fighting the crowds out and about, host your own fun and festive fete in the comfort of your own home!

Host the Ultimate New Year’s Eve Party with Help from the Commissary

Use this handy guide to help you throw a party to remember.

Logistics & Planning

Before you go crazy with party planning, let’s lay out some basics. Who, what, when, and what to wear.

Decide on your guest list. Go with just a few close friends for a smaller, intimate and super personal event. Or invite the whole neighborhood over for a major blow out bash!

Will your party be adults-only or are children welcome? Make that clear on your invites. Your guests will need time to find a good sitter.

Then decide if you’ll be dressing up or keeping it casual.

With a rough guest count, party formality, and child-friendly level determined, you’re ready to plan an awesome New Year’s Eve event! Look to your local commissary for great food options!

Formal & Festive Party Plan

Your party is child-free, or at least has kids supervised away from the adults-only gathering.

Drinks:

Keep your party popping with bubbly cocktails! Or try these simple mixes…

  • Mix creme de cassis into sparkling wine for a Kir Royale! Top with a fresh or frozen raspberry
  • Add a small scoop of lemon sorbet to a champagne flute. Top with a tsp of vodka, then finish with sparkling wine for a Sgroppino

Appetizers:

Make your small plates light and classic, think easy to eat while still being fancy.

  • Use puff pastry shells to make mini quiche, fill with spinach dip and top with melted cheese
  • Pan sear scallops and wrap in bacon before broiling briefly to finish cooking through
  • Set out a variety of cheeses, olives, pickles, and cured meats with tasty crackers

Main course:

If you’re having a sit-down dinner, consider serving a Smithfield ham with vegetables and mashed potatoes.

Try this brussels sprouts recipe:

You’ll need: 1-2 packages frozen brussels sprouts (or about 1-2 lbs fresh); 1 lb bacon; 2 cups dried cranberries; 2 cups chopped walnuts or nuts of your choice; maple syrup or molasses or brown sugar (your choice!)

  1. Set the oven to 400º. Slice fresh sprouts into quarters, leave frozen spouts whole for now. Spread evenly onto a rimmed baking sheet, season with salt and pepper to taste. Bake in oven for 15 min; remove and quickly slice frozen sprouts into quarters. Return and bake until the sprouts are starting to crisp.
  2. While the sprouts cook, prepare the bacon. Fry on the stove or bake in the oven (400º for about 15 min). Once crisp, roughly chop.
  3. In a medium pan, quickly brown the nuts and cranberries.
  4. Once the sprouts are starting to crisp, remove from oven. Add the chopped bacon and nut/cranberry mix, drizzle your sweetener (sugar, syrup, or molasses) over the top. Season with a sprinkle more of salt and pepper, to taste.
  5. Return to oven until fragrant and browned. Serve hot.

Dessert:

Stay classy with chocolate mousse cups!

DIY your own simple version with chocolate and vanilla pudding, whipped cream, cookies or cake, and candy sprinkles.

  1. Prepare your pudding as directed.
  2. Layer the pudding, cake or cookies, and whipped cream into small clear plastic cups.
  3. Top each dessert cup with a final flourish of whipped cream and add sparkle with the candy sprinkles.

Toast:

As midnight approaches, pass out another glass of sparkling wine or a champagne cocktail to your guests. Toast to the new year together!

Family-Friendly & Casual

For parties that include everyone, adults and kids, keep the atmosphere fun and festive with family-friendly food and drink options.

Drinks:

Treat your younger guests to fancy juice boxes, warm apple cider, or sparkling juices.

Adults could choose from a selection of local wine and beer. Help everyone try new things by inviting guests to share their favorite brews and bottles!

Another option is a self-serve bar. Set out the ingredients, and recipes, for classic cocktails and let your guests help themselves.

  • Tonics: 2 oz gin or vodka, 4-5 oz tonic water, garnish with lime
  • Old Fashioned: one sugar cube, 2-3 dashes Angostura bitters, 2 oz Bourbon or Rye whiskey; add to a rocks glass with several ice cubes, garnish with cherries and an orange slice
  • Gin Martini: shake 3 oz gin with 1 oz sweet vermouth in a cocktail shaker with ice; pour into a martini glass, garnish with olives or a lemon slice
  • Selection of whiskey, scotch, vodka, and rum plus mixers and garnish

Appetizers:

Nibble on finger foods that both kids and adults will enjoy!

  • Mini weiners: cook mini hot dogs in a sweet and smoky BBQ sauce; serve hot
  • Meat & cheese plate: slice a selection of cheeses and serve with cured meats, pickles, olives, and crackers
  • Chips & dips: serve potato, tortilla, and pita chips with dips like ranch, French onion, salsa, and hummus

Main Course:

Set up a potluck buffet and invite guests to bring their crowd-pleasing favorite side dish to share! Set up a few mains to help round out the menu.

  • Mini chicken parm: in a 9×13 baking dish, arrange a single layer of precooked frozen chicken snacks from the freezer section; cover with prepared tomato sauce and top with cheese; cook at 350° until cheese is bubbly and chicken is heated through
  • Turkey meatballs: cook turkey meatballs in a prepared tomato sauce; serve with sliced buns and shredded cheese for sandwiches or pasta
  • Sliders: prepare precooked frozen mini burgers according to the package; serve with additional toppings, like pickles or ketchup

Dessert:

Make dessert super easy and sure to please with low-prep classics.

  • Fruit pies: enjoy fresh pie, straight from the oven, with frozen prepared holiday pies; serve with whipped cream
  • Pudding pie: prepare pudding as directed, then pour into a graham cracker crust; chill until slightly firm and top with whipped cream
  • DIY sundae bar: serve a selection of traditional ice cream flavors and set out different toppings, like syrup, nuts, and sprinkles; invite your guests to design their own sweet treat

Toast:

If any little ones make it to midnight, pop a bottle of sparkling juice, like grape juice or apple cider. They’ll feel extra fancy if you serve it in plastic champagne flutes!

Adults can toast with their favorite sparkling wine or a champagne cocktail.

How will you ring in 2019? Share your best New Year’s Eve party tricks and tips in the comments!

Why I’m Grateful To Be A Military Spouse

By

Endless moving, constant change, long deployments, never feeling 100% secure in a career because of the PCSing. It’s a lot of stress. Being a military spouse is certainly no cakewalk, even under the absolute best of circumstances.

But…

5 'In Uniform' Rules All Military Spouses Should Know

Photo Credit: Lauren Nygard Photography

I wouldn’t dream of living another life. Ever.

I might not like every part of this military spouse life, but I do love it. It’s given me freedom and support in equal measures, with lots of joy mixed in, too.

Why I’m Grateful To Be A Military Spouse

This life may not be easy, but I’m incredibly thankful to be on this journey!

1. I’m surrounded by experts in all things, all the time

My daughter was very, very ill recently. The doctor’s office was closed and I wasn’t sure what to do. I called the nurse advice line but didn’t feel 100% confident in their suggestions. They couldn’t actually see my poor girl or really get the full picture over the phone.

Instead, I phoned a friend. She’s a nurse and lives just one street over. In minutes, she was in my house with advice I trusted because I trust her. The next day, she called again to see how things had played out and to walk me through what the next steps might look like.

She’s not the only professional I know either. Just in my neighborhood, I’ve got a hairdresser, makeup artist, accountant, pharmacist, personal trainer, vinyl artist, and EMT. Those are just the folks I know!

No matter what problem I have, there is a military spouse friend I can call.

Help with my blog or business? It’s handled.

Medical advice? Done.

Buying, selling, renting or managing real estate? Didn’t even break a sweat.

Any direct sales company from books to makeup to unmentionables? You betcha!

2. I’ve lived farther from “home” than I ever thought possible

I grew up in a small New England town where most people stayed, at least, in the county. My life from college graduation on was mapped out: find a teaching job sort of close by, stay there for 20-30 years, retire and then travel.

The farthest my feet had taken me was up to Montreal and Quebec City for a college student exchange program.

Right now, I’m typing this post from my couch in Japan.

Japan.

I’ve gone from the person who was content to maybe cross a state line to grab a great job to a literal world traveler. We’ve lived in California, DC, and now Japan.

I never thought I would get to visit anywhere beyond the US or maybe western Europe. Now, I can say that I’ve lived in Japan!

3. My kids have bathed elephants in Thailand

They’ve eaten pho in Vietnam, worn hanbocks in Seoul, tried sushi in Tokyo, and walked paths through thousands of years of history.

We have seen the world, thanks to this military life we lead.

Without the gift of our overseas duty station, traveling throughout Asia would have been a pie-in-the-sky dream. We would have stuck with the wonders of America, and been very thankful for the experiences.

But now, I have the image of my daughter’s surprised face the first time she touched the rough wrinkled skin of an elephant. My son’s laughter at the shisa dog dancers rings in my ears. I can still taste the Cao lau, made from scratch with water from an ancient well, in Hoi An.

4. I can try new things often

Traveling brings new adventures no matter what, or where, we explore. But I’m talking about personal and professional new things.

Remember, I thought I would be a teacher for a few decades? Instead, I’m dipping my toes into freelance writing and running my own virtual business. I’ve been able to serve families around the world as a tutor and homeschooling coach. I wrote a book, something I never thought I would do in a million years.

Yes, I’ve been a teacher and worked in schools, too. So that dream is still very much alive!

And our next move has even more potential for reinvention. I can choose to return to the classroom, dive into non-profit work that I’m passionate about, or continue to build my personal brand.

Without the constant moving and changing, my “brand” would still be what it was on college graduation day: elementary and special education teacher.

Instead, I’ve been able to explore different interests and areas with a little bit of a safety net. I’m still not 100% sure where I’ll land next, but I know it will be something exciting and amazing.

5. I get to be Cinderella at least one night a year

Growing up, my best friend and I would go to JC Penny and try on the prom dresses. We weren’t shopping for anything. It was just for fun. Putting on a fancy dress, sweeping your hair up into a formal updo, and wearing more makeup than normal is exciting!

I love that one night every year I get to play Cinderella with my own handsome knight in shining armor on my arm.

So, I might moan and groan about finding a sitter or trying to get dressed with a toddler underfoot. But deep down, I live for this. The ball is my Super Bowl.

I love to see everyone in fancy clothes, on their best behavior before dinner and then breaking it down on the dance floor after dessert.

Watching the motivational videos, especially the Birthday Message, makes me tear up every year. If there’s a remotely poignant guest speaker, I’ll be trying to hold back the waterworks!

I’m so grateful to be part of this supportive, adventurous, incredibly talented military spouse community!

Let us know why you’re thankful to be a military spouse!

Stumped for a Gift?

By

Give the Gift of Experience

By Marguerite Cleveland

With less than two weeks to Christmas, I often find myself wracking my brain for a special gift for someone who is hard to shop for. It could be that teenager who only wants expensive tech gifts or someone who has everything. When you find yourself in this situation, give the gift of an experience. It makes a perfect gift and it is unique.  It is a gift people really like just make sure you tailor it to their interests. Here are some options:

  • Zoo or Aquarium Membership – This is perfect for a family and is something they can enjoy over and over again all year round.
  • iFly Indoor Skydiving – This company has locations all over the country and offers cool experience for an adrenaline junky. Bonus you can often snag a deal on gift certificates at Costco.
  • Distilling – Many craft distillers offer tours and tastings and some offer distilling experiences where you get to make your own batch. Super cool activity for a bourbon whiskey lover.

Photo credit: Marguerite Cleveland

  • Cooking Class – We all have that relative or friend who is glued to the Cooking Channel and never misses an episode of chopped. A cooking class makes a great gift. Look in your local area, restaurants, schools and personal chefs are a great place to start or contact your local tourism bureau. Fun classes include fresh pasta making or learn how to make macarons. So many options.
  • Day Trip – Check with Outdoor Rec or MWR at your local duty stations. Many offer fun day trips such as white water rafting or ski trips. Lots of fun and a great way to meet new people.
  • Indoor Shooting Range – I don’t know anyone who doesn’t love to shoot and if they haven’t it is fun to learn. You can give shooting classes or time at the range. Purchase extra ammo to wrap up.
  • Ziplining or bungee jumping – Another experience for the adrenaline junky. Places to zipline are popping up all over the country and are not just in vacation spots anymore. Just make sure your recipient is not afraid of heights.
  • Specialty Dinner – Another great foodie gift. Many restaurants will offer special meals throughout the year that highlight local produce like a farm to table meal. Wine dinners are also popular where a local chef flexes his culinary muscles and prepares a meal to pair perfectly with a selection of wines.
  • Groupon – This is a great place to go for last minute gifts of experiences. I often find great ideas for things to do locally but also in other towns. Checking in my area and everything from Escape Rooms, Paintball, Go Karting and quite a few things on this list pop up. Great gift at a great discount.

So don’t despair if you haven’t found the perfect gift. A present of an experience is sure to be a hit. What is your favorite experience gift? Post in the comments.

Marguerite Cleveland is a freelance writer who specializes in human interest and travel stories. She is a military brat, a veteran and now a military spouse.  Her military experience is vast as the daughter of a Navy man who served as an enlisted sailor and then Naval Officer. She served as an enlisted soldier in the reserves and on active duty, then as an Army Officer. She currently serves as a military spouse. She lives in the Pacific Northwest with her husband and two sons. Visit her website www.WanderWordsWine.com

 

 

Scholarships for Military Children

By

NEWS RELEASE

Defense Commissary Agency

Corporate Communications

1300 E Avenue, Fort Lee, VA 23801-1800

Tel:  (804) 734-8000, Ext. 8-6105  DSN: 687-8000, Ext. 8-6105

FAX: (804) 734-8248  DSN: 687-8248

www.commissaries.com

 

 

Release Number:         86-18                                                                                                                        

Date:                              November 29, 2018

Media Contact:             Kevin L. Robinson, public affairs specialist

Tel.:                                (804) 734-8000, Ext. 4-8773

E-mail:                           kevin.robinson@deca.mil

 

Scholarships for Military Children

Dec. 14 start date for new applications; process all online

By Mike Perron,

DeCA public affairs specialist

 

Note: To watch a video on DeCA’s YouTube page related to Scholarships for Military Children, go to https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YbJrphCfYBY.

FORT LEE, Va. – The Scholarships for Military Children Program for school year 2019 – 2020 kicks off Dec. 14, and continues accepting applications through Feb. 15.

This marks the first time the entry process will happen entirely online according to Jim Weiskopf, Fisher House vice president. “It will be simple to create an account, save your work and submit your application when finalized,” he explained. “The online process will make it easier for military children to reach their education goals.”

The program, entering its 19th year, recognizes the contributions of military families to the readiness of the fighting force and celebrates the commissary’s role in enhancing military quality of life. It’s administered by Fisher House Foundation, a nonprofit organization that helps service members and their families. Thus far, the program has awarded more than $18 million to 10,814 students.

Selection qualifications are straightforward. Requirements include completing the application; submission of the student’s official transcript indicating a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 or above on a 4.0 scale for high school applicants, or college transcript indicating a cumulative minimum GPA of 2.5 or above on a 4.0 scale for students already enrolled in college; and an essay of 500 words or less, no longer than two pages.

Eligibility for the program is determined using the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System database. Applicants should ensure that they, as well as their sponsor, are enrolled in the DEERS database and have a current military dependent ID card. The applicant must also be planning to attend or already be attending an accredited college or university, full time, in the fall of 2019 or be enrolled in a program of studies designed to transfer directly into a four-year program.

Applicants who are awarded a full scholarship to attend a college or university or receive an appointment to one of the military academies or affiliated preparatory schools are not eligible to receive funds from this program. A full scholarship is usually defined as one that provides for payment of tuition, books, lab fees and other expenses.

For scholarship year 2019-20, Fisher House Foundation will award 500 scholarship grants of $2,000 each. The selection process will begin immediately following receipt of all applications in February.

“It will be exciting to see the increase in the applications with the new online submission,” said Marye Dobson, the Defense Commissary Agency’s scholarships program liaison. “I believe online submissions will attract more potential recipients as this method is right in line with the way many students attend classes, complete school work, and live their everyday lives.”

All rules and requirements for the program, as well as links to frequently asked questions are available at the Scholarships for Military Children website.

Fisher House also recently added an additional custom scholarship search engine to the site, tailored to military families, called “Scholarships for Service.” It’s free, easy to use, and available on mobile devices or computers at militaryscholar.org.

-DeCA-

Finding Your Own Holiday Traditions and Activities near Your Current Duty Station

By

By Marguerite Cleveland

One of the most difficult things about being a military family is being away from all your relatives during the holidays. You miss the local holiday traditions and activities especially if you looked forward to sharing them with your children. Although you can’t get the same experience you can recreate it where you currently live and maybe find some new experiences that your family will love.

Going to See the Lights – This is always a popular event whether it is that cool neighborhood known for its Christmas Lights, the drive thru extravaganzas with thousands of lights or walking through Zoolights. The good thing is these events are available just about everywhere. If Zoolights are your thing check the website of your local zoo which is bound to have this holiday tradition. Make sure to check since many offer a military discount or military days.  As an Army family we are rarely stationed near a coast but this year living near the Puget Sound we’ve discovered a new event, the lighted boat parade. So cool and there are three different ones located not far from our base.

Base Activities – Most military installations have some type of holiday traditions. In our case it is the annual tree lighting ceremony. This is a great way to come together with military families who are also missing home. The chapels will also have holiday services for a variety of faiths and denominations. Consider inviting a single service member or young couple to a holiday dinner.

Snow – Not all locations you are assigned to will have four seasons so sometimes you have to improvise. Our family was stationed a number of years in the south and my children have unique memories of “snow”. In Savannah, Georgia they actually brought in a few truckloads of snow and dumped it out downtown for the kids to play in, a big hit with my children. I have to admit the plastic flooring with water on it to simulate ice skating, not so much. At Stone Mountain Park near Atlanta, Georgia the big holiday event has real snow for tubing. If you live in a snowy climate there are plenty of options. National and State Parks will have snow play areas and there are bound to be great hills for sledding.

Local Holiday Events – Google (name your location) and you should be able to locate a visitors bureau for your location. The website will include an event section and you can find all the information about things that will appeal to your family. You’ll find everything from caroling, ice skating, holiday lights, Christmas Shows etc. Some locations will offer Polar Express Train Rides and often fairgrounds will have events.

I have found the key to a happy holiday season is not to focus on the things you miss, but the things you have. It’s a lot of responsibility but I’ve found as a military spouse if you make the effort to be happy then the whole family will follow suit. Get excited about all the new things you might never have seen if you hadn’t moved. So Happy Holidays to all.

Marguerite Cleveland is a freelance writer who specializes in human interest and travel stories. She is a military brat, a veteran and now a military spouse.  Her military experience is vast as the daughter of a Navy man who served as an enlisted sailor and then Naval Officer. She served as an enlisted soldier in the reserves and on active duty, then as an Army Officer. She currently serves as a military spouse. She lives in the Pacific Northwest with her husband and two sons. Visit her website www.WanderWordsWine.com

 

Enjoy a December Staycation in Sunny SoCal!

By

SoCal is practically vacation land. And it’s all right outside your front door. Whether you’re stationed in Coronado, MCAS Miramar or way up north in the San Onofre region, there is always something to do.

While you’re celebrating the holidays San Diego-style, consider making it a full staycation by exploring all that SoCal has to offer!

Enjoy a December Staycation in Sunny SoCal!

Try our three day San Diego-area staycation itinerary for a long weekend’s worth of fun and sun!

Hang onto your hats because we are going to fit a whole lot of fun and excitement into just a few days.

Day 1: San Diego

Planning to live up your staycation starting the night before? Try to book into the Navy Lodge on Coronado Island, just over the bay from downtown San Diego. If you can’t book a room at this specific location, there are options. San Diego is a major hub for the Navy and USMC. Many bases offer DOD lodging for recreation at reasonable rates.

Start your day at The Broken Yolk, a top San Diego breakfast chain. There are several convenient locations throughout San Diego and the surrounding communities. Pick a yummy breakfast burrito or go for classic pancakes. There are no bad choices.

After you fill up, get your thrill on at SeaWorld! Use your Waves of Honor tickets to score free entry. Enjoy exciting roller coasters, fun dolphin shows, and even connect with your favorite Sesame Street characters. Enjoy some heavy snacks and head out in the early afternoon for your next location.

Go to Balboa Park, in the heart of San Diego, for a relaxing late lunch or early dinner at The Prado. They decorate for the season and always feature fresh, locally inspired cuisine. Rumor has it that they make a margarita to die for!

Once you’re full, walk over to the iconic San Diego Zoo. While you have a little daylight left, take the gondolas (free with a standard ticket purchase) to the back of the zoo. Check out the elephants, lions, and other animals while you stroll back toward the front. As the sun goes down, the lights will pop on and Jungle Bells will start! Enjoy holiday music with a SoCal spin, animal encounters, and checking out select animals at night.

The zoo closes at 8 pm. If you’re still looking for a little fun, go to the Gaslamp District for a light dinner and drinks. You can find something for everyone, including children, in this happening neighborhood. From little hole in the wall local spots to bigger national chains, there are plenty of options! Plus, it’s exciting to wander around under the Christmas lights.

Day 2: Disneyland

It wouldn’t be a SoCal staycation if we ignored the main mouse: Mickey! Get up early, if you can, and head to Anaheim. It’s just about two hours from San Diego by car.

If you go purchase your tickets by December 16, and go before December 19, you can still take advantage of the 2018 Military Salute pricing. Check with ITT for details or to purchase tickets. If you’d like to stay near the park and squeeze every last bit of fun from your day, there are tons of great hotel options nearby.

You’ll be spending your whole day at Disney, so relax and enjoy! Disneyland and California Adventure do Christmas in a major way. Look for special snacks and souvenirs at shops throughout the park. Maybe pick out an ornament to remember your magical December SoCal staycation?

You could do just one park all day, or hop between the parks. Remember to specify which option you’d prefer when you purchase your tickets.

Stay until the fireworks show.

Day 3: Temecula

It’s the last day of your staycation. You’re probably absolutely wiped right now. Perfect, it’s time to unwind in wine country!

First up, enjoy breakfast in Old Town Temecula. There are a few small town-type diners here that serve up classics, like scrambled eggs and corned beef hash.

Next, head to SouthCoast Winery. No, the wine bar isn’t open yet. You’re going to the spa for some rest and relaxation. After a few hours of pampering, connect with your wine tour for a day of tasting! Best of all, you’ll have a safe ride. Just make sure you’ve also booked a local room, too. There are plenty of hotel options at a variety of price points! Be sure to use Military Shoppers Travel and Rewards to book your stay for additional savings.

Sip yummy Temecula wines. Some popular wineries include:

  • Wiens: sample their orange infused sparkling wine, Amour de l’Orange
  • Callaway: try a pour of Zinfandel
  • SouthCoast: their wine menu is extensive and it’s hard to pick even a few favorites!
  • Robert Renzoni: known for their big, jammy red wines

Temecula is a super laid back, casual tasting experience that the whole family can enjoy. If you’re bringing the kids along, skip the wine tour and spend the day at a kid-friendly winery. Wiens has a wide lawn where children can romp. Wilson Creek even has a whole wooden playset for kids to enjoy. It’s set back from the main winery.

Whatever your tasting choice, make sure you designate a driver or call a cab.

After your tasting, enjoy a quiet dinner in Temecula’s Old Town. There are several SoCal style Mexican restaurants, as well as BBQ and upscale dining options.

In the morning, head back to your home base, exhausted and happy.

What are your favorite SoCal or San Diego staycation ideas? Share your top tips in the comments!

Holiday Traditions Around the World that MilFams Love

By

Pop into a military family’s home in North Carolina and you might find origami cranes on the tree and stollen sharing space with a nice bottle of California red wine on the table.

Military families are sent all over the country and around the world. Along the way, we mix a few local holiday traditions into our family celebrations.

So pop a Christmas cracker, light the Advent wreath and deck the halls this season with holiday traditions around the world!

Holiday Traditions Around the World that MilFams Love

With military families celebrating around the country and across the globe, we’ve picked out a few unique and special traditions that we love.

Advent Wreaths

This is a German tradition originally but has definitely spread around the world. Advent wreaths use winter greens, like pine boughs, and candles.

Place four candles into the circle of pine branches. Light one candle each Sunday leading up to Christmas so that by Christmas day all four candles will be lit!

Japanese Christmas Cake

Following World War II, this decadent whip cream-filled cake became popular to show how Japan rebuilt from almost nothing.

Today, you can buy a yummy “kurisumasu keki” all over Japan. You’ll love the perfect strawberries on top along with the kawaii (cute) candy decorations.

Christmas Crackers

Say “Merry Christmas” with a pop with this tradition from the UK! Set a cracker beside each table setting or leave a big basket out on the coffee table.

Guests pull both ends of the cracker, a paper tube with treats inside, which opens with a bang. Inside the cracker are candies and paper hats, plus other small toys and surprises.

Holiday Luau

Nothing says Christmas in Hawaii like a big, community luau and pig roast! Sway to island music and greet each guest with a lei.

Whether you are enjoying a day of tropical sunshine or sitting in a few feet of snow, your Christmas will be merry and bright.

Smoked Christmas Ham

Set your holiday table with a delicious Southern-smoked ham from Virginia or Tennessee! This tradition from the southern United States is a classic.

US-based families can keep the flavors of the South on their holiday table no matter where they live. Many top ham companies will ship throughout the lower 48!

Christmas Pickle

No one is quite sure where this tradition comes from, but it is definitely connected to German blown glass ornaments. Pick up your own pickle Christmas ornament in Europe, or anywhere really.

On Christmas Even hide the pickle in your tree. In the morning, the first child to find the pickle gets a “bonus” gift!

KFC for Christmas

You won’t find a turkey or even a nice honey ham on Japanese Christmas tables. Instead, you’ll find a big bucket of the Colonel’s special recipe chicken!

KFC meals are a huge Japanese holiday tradition. With several packages to choose from, ordering begins about a month before Christmas. You could even grab a meal complete with cake and sparkling wine!

St. Nicholas Day

For kids around Europe, especially in Germany, December 6 is one of the hallmarks of the holiday season. If you celebrate St. Nicholas Day, your own kids might have a hard time sleeping on December 5!

Set our your child’s shoes for St. Nick to fill with toys and small treats for good girls and boys. This sweet holiday is a great way to kick off the holiday season, celebrating giving to others!

Mince Pies & Figgy Pudding

Enjoy these festive British treats to get into the spirit of the season!

Mince pies have a variety of fillings, with fruit, meat, and spices in the mix. The recipe has shifted over the centuries, with many families creating their own unique twists on tradition.

Figgy pudding is a fruit-filled, booze-soaked cake. This is definitely an adults-only treat from the UK!

Twelfth Night

Many European countries, including Germany, celebrate the Feast of the Epiphany, or Twelfth Night, on January 6. There are some connections to Christian stories, including the celebration of the three kings who visited Jesus.

It is also a great reason to prolong the holiday festivities with parties and good times! Gather together with family and friends for a night of celebrating.

Surfing Santa

St. Nick might show up on a surfboard in SoCal or an outrigger in Hawaii! Many local holiday decorations feature the man in red sporting a festive Hawaiian print shirt and hanging ten.

Pick up your own local Santa figure to display at your home during the holidays!

 

What special holiday traditions have you picked up over the years? We’d love to read about your Christmas traditions from duty stations near and far!

A Christmas List that Only a Military Spouse Would Understand

By

Christmas lists are so hard for me to write. There is truly nothing I need that I don’t already have. And the things I want can’t be bought at a store.

A Christmas List that Only a Military Spouse Would Understand

My most wished for Christmas gifts are things that might make military spouses nod and smile.

Magic Curtains

It would be nice if houses all came with just a few standard window sizes. You’d think that might be the case, given advances in modern house building and technology generally.

Nope.

My giant box of curtains knows the truth. Every single house we’ve lived in for the last ten years has had different sized windows. Sometimes the windows in one house are a variety of sizes.

Buying curtains to fit all those windows, plus hopefully work in the next few houses, can be a battle.

I’d love to get a dozen pairs of magic curtains. My magic curtains would resize themselves based on the windows in our current house. Wider, longer, shorter, narrower, whatever.

I’d prefer the upgraded pattern changing curtains, but will totally be happy with basic grey.

Post-PCS Fairy

The only thing worse than packing up your house is unpacking your entire house. It might just be me, but our HHG seems to triple in size by the time we accept delivery.

Not only does it seem like more, but now I need to make everything fit into a new house. All the rooms are different shapes, the walls are different colors, and suddenly that bookcase doesn’t work in any room!

I’d love to have someone come to my house to run interference on my post-PCS unpacking. My person would help entertain the kids, remember to walk the dog, give advice about organization, and share decorating tips.

A Clone

I feel like I always need to be in a million places at once. Usually, my crunch time is at the end of the day. I’ve got to hit the commissary, mail things out before the post office closes, go to the bank, and handle school pick up. All between 4 and 5 pm.

I could sure use a few more copies of me to do all the things!

If I had a clone or two, all those errands that I need to fit in between the end of working and the end of school would be a snap! There might even be enough of me to make dinner at a reasonable time, too.

Boots By the Door

I yell every time I trip over those big, clunky, smelly boots. They are always in the way, no matter where they land. But when they are gone, I miss almost breaking my legs falling over them.

I distinctly remember a Christmas not so long ago where I would have given almost anything to find those boots by my door. Muddy, stinking, dusty, and 100% in my way. I would have cried with joy.

This year, those boots will thankfully be by my door and their owner will be at our holiday table. But I know many military families will be missing a pair of boots by their doors.

Neighborhood Full of Friends

Over the last decade or so, we’ve made incredible friends, people we’ve bonded with and created deep, lasting connections. Our kids have been babies and toddlers together. We’ve celebrated weddings and promotions as a chosen family.

Right now, many of my dearest friends are scattered around the world. While we have celebrated holidays together in years past, this time we are apart.

What I want for Christmas is a neighborhood where I can live with all my best friends.

I want a place where I can step out the door and be reunited with my first best military friend from SoCal. Down the street are my favorite running buddy and her boys. Right across from me is the friend who saw me through an OCONUS pregnancy and birth.

I want to be together, with all the friends I hold dear, this Christmas.

A Way to Bottle Places

After we move, my son will likely never come back to the place he was born. He will not remember the beautiful island we currently call home. The Eisa drums won’t call to him in his soul anymore.

I want a way to bottle the places we’ve lived and loved. I want to take them with me when we move. I want to open up a bottle and be back in Okinawa. Or running along the surf in SoCal, or picking apples in the Virginia countryside.

The best thing about military life is that you move to new places often. Each move brings an opportunity for adventure and discovery.

What they don’t tell you is how much your heart breaks every time you have to move from a much-loved duty station. No one tells you that your soul will ache for sunrise over the Washington Monument on a crisp spring day. You don’t understand how much you’ll miss New Orleans jazz until you’re plopped in the middle of Oklahoma. But when you leave there, you’ll even miss the random bison who visit your backyard.

I’d love to revisit, if only for a moment, all the places we’ve lived.

What can’t-be-bought-in-the-store items are on your Christmas wish list this year?