Building and maintaining strong family connections during a deployment is essential for the emotional well-being of both the deployed service member and the family members at home. Despite the physical distance, there are numerous ways to foster a sense of closeness and ensure that family bonds remain strong throughout the deployment period. Here are several strategies and ideas on how to stay connected as a family during deployment:

Regular Communication

Maintaining consistent communication is crucial. Although the frequency and method of communication may vary depending on the deployment location and military regulations, there are several ways to stay in touch:

• Video Calls: Schedule regular video calls through platforms like Zoom, Skype, or FaceTime when able. Seeing each other’s faces can help bridge the distance and create a more intimate connection. This is great for children, especially at ages when they may not understand the reason for the family separation.
• Phone Calls: Regular phone calls allow one to hear each other’s voices and share updates about daily life.
• Emails and Letters: Written communication, whether via email or traditional letters, allows for more thoughtful and reflective exchanges. Letters, in particular, can be kept as keepsakes and re-read whenever comfort is needed.
• Voice Recordings: If real-time communication is challenging, sending voice recordings is a personal and heartfelt way to share messages.

Share Daily Life

Involving the deployed family member in the daily life of the household can help them feel connected and informed:

• Photos and Videos: Send photos and short video clips of everyday moments, such as family meals, school events, or weekend outings. This helps the deployed member feel included in the family’s routine.
• Shared Journals: Keep a family journal where everyone writes entries about their day, thoughts, and feelings. The deployed member can also contribute entries when they have time.
• Family Calendar: Use a shared online calendar to mark important dates, such as birthdays, anniversaries, and special events, so everyone is aware of family milestones.

Creative Connection Ideas

Get creative with ways to stay connected and engaged with each other:

• Care Packages: Send care packages filled with favorite snacks, personal items, and handwritten notes. Themed packages, such as holiday or seasonal themes, can add a fun element.
• Reading Together: Choose a book to read together as a family. Each person can read the same book or chapter, and then discuss it during calls or in letters.
• Watch Movies Simultaneously: Plan a movie night where both the deployed member and the family watch the same movie at the same time. Share reactions and thoughts about the movie afterward.
• “Hug A Hero Dolls”: For children of all ages, a Hug A Hero Doll allows for continued familiarization and connection with the deployed parent. Bonus if you get the voice recording, your child can press and hear their deployed parents voice whenever they want.

Emotional Support and Understanding

Acknowledging and addressing the emotional challenges of deployment is essential:

• Counseling and Support Groups: Seek out counseling services and support groups for military families. These resources can provide coping strategies and a sense of community. Resources like Military One Source and Military Family Life Coaches (MFLCs) are great places to start. The Cohen Veterans Network has clinics for in-person and virtual support groups for those of all ages; check out their website to see if there is a clinic near you. If more connection or counseling is needed, TRICARE offers mental health resources that are available virtually or can be sought in person.
• Open Communication: Encourage open and honest communication about feelings and experiences. Family members need to express their emotions and support each other.

Keep Traditions Alive

Maintaining family traditions and rituals during deployment can provide stability and a sense of normalcy:

• Maintain Traditions: Keep family traditions alive, even if the deployed member is not physically present. Celebrating holidays, birthdays, and other special occasions can provide a sense of continuity and normalcy.
• Virtual Participation: Involve the deployed member in family traditions via video calls or recorded messages. For example, they can read a bedtime story over video call or send a recorded message for a family holiday celebration.
• Photo Albums: Create a photo album documenting family activities and special moments during the deployment to be shared with the deployed member upon their return. Or share through a Google folder during the deployment to keep the deployed service member in the loop.

Prepare for Reintegration

Planning for the return of the deployed member can help ease the transition and build excitement:

• Countdown Calendar: Create a countdown calendar to mark the days until the deployed member’s return. This can be a fun and visual way to build anticipation.
• Welcome Home Plans: Involve the entire family in planning a welcome home celebration. This could include decorating the house, planning a favorite meal, or organizing a special outing.
• Discussing Expectations: Discuss expectations for reintegration, acknowledging that it may take time for everyone to adjust to being together again. If you aren’t sure what to expect or where to start, check out resources on Military One Source on reintegration or reach out to e MFLC.

Military families can build resilience and maintain strong connections despite deployment challenges by employing these strategies. Fostering communication, sharing daily life, engaging in creative connection activities, providing emotional support, and preparing for reintegration all contribute to a sense of unity and support that can sustain families through the hardships of deployment.

Make this summer the summer your family unplugs and enjoys time together. Unplugging from technology has numerous benefits, including but not limited to building family time and resilience, improving sleep, boosting creativity, and enhancing mental and physical well-being. Interacting with your family members builds strong bonds, which are vital in a world of unknowns in military life.  Unplugging allows for more opportunities to practice mindfulness and relaxation techniques, which children and adults can benefit from.

Here are fifteen ways to engage in an unplugged summer moment. Add a few to your weekly activities this summer to build memories as a family or with friends.

1. Nature Scavenger Hunt: Create a list of items found in nature (e.g., pine cones, certain types of leaves, rocks) and go on a hunt in a nearby park or walking trail. If you are traveling to a new area and are unsure what to list, check out local naturalist groups.
2. Camping: Whether in your backyard or at a campsite, camping offers a great opportunity to disconnect and enjoy nature. Tell stories around the campfire, roast marshmallows, and stargaze.
3. Bike Rides: Explore local bike trails or simply ride around the neighborhood. It’s great exercise and a fun way to see the sights.
4. Gardening: Start a garden together. Kids can help plant and water the plants and watch them grow. It’s a rewarding and educational activity.
5. Beach Day: Spend the day at the beach building sandcastles, collecting shells, and swimming.
6. Craft Projects: Create art using materials like paper, paint, and recycled items. Make homemade cards, decorations, or even simple DIY toys.
7. Library Visits: Visit the local library to borrow books, attend storytime sessions, and participate in summer reading programs.
8. Picnics: Pack a picnic and head to a local park. Enjoy eating outside and playing games like frisbee or tag.
9. Hiking: Find kid-friendly hiking trails and explore the outdoors. Look for interesting plants and animals along the way.
10. Board Games and Puzzles: Have a family game night with board games and puzzles. It’s a fun way to spend quality time together indoors.
11. Cooking Together: Involve the kids in cooking or baking projects. Make homemade pizzas and cookies, or even try making your own ice cream. Don’t know where to start? Check out some cookbooks from the library.
12. Visit Museums and Zoos: Many museums and zoos offer hands-on exhibits and activities for kids. It’s a fun and educational outing. Bonus that many museums, zoos, and even aquariums participate in the Blue Star Museums program that runs from Armed Forces Day to Labor Day, offering free admission to active duty military, veterans, and their family members free admission. The program is a joint venture between the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) and Blue Star Families. Check out the Blue Star Museum map here to find a participating museum near you.
13. DIY Obstacle Course: Create an obstacle course in your backyard using household items. Challenge each other to see who can complete it the fastest.
14. Fishing: If you can access a lake or river, take the kids fishing. It’s a relaxing way to spend time outdoors and teach them a new skill.
15. Outdoor Performances: Check out local listings for outdoor concerts, theater performances, or festivals. Many communities offer free or low-cost events during the summer.

These activities provide ample opportunities for family bonding, physical activity, and creativity without the need for screens. Enjoy your unplugged summer!

The health insurance, TRICARE, is changing contractors in 2025. This will change up the current regions, enrollment, networks and claim services. Know what to expect ahead of these changes.

The current contractors for TRICARE East, Humana Military, and TRICARE West, Health Net Federal Services, LLC, remain in effect until December 31, 2024. There are NO changes to TRICARE For Life, U.S. Family Health Plan or TRICARE Overseas health plan users. The only changes will affect those using TRICARE East and TRICARE West.

The regions of TRICARE East and West are changing. The following six states are part of TRICARE East until December 31, 2024, and then move to TRICARE West on January 1, 2025:

• Arkansas
• Illinois
• Louisiana
• Oklahoma
• Texas
• Wisconsin

Those members located in those states will receive direct communication from the new contract company to assist with the changeover. As healthcare providers must “enroll” in the healthcare insurances that they take, the communication with the new contract company will happen ahead of the changeover.

The TRICARE East region contract company will remain Humana Military, but as noted above, certain states will no longer be part of the East Region.

The TRICARE West region, including the new states as above, will be managed by the TriWest Healthcare Alliance Corporation.

Per the TRICARE news release, the new contracts “include a commitment to help you identify top-performing providers and improve access to highly specialized care.”  The news release specifically reported that the changes would lead to “improved choice, including virtual value network tools that will help you quickly identify providers with best outcomes and better access to telehealth appointments.”

To make sure you do not miss out on any changes with TRICARE, sign up for email alerts here. Confirm that family members are active in the DEERS system, with current address and contact information as the DEERS system is where TRICARE pulls information for healthcare coverage. Up to date information in DEERS will ensure continuity of healthcare coverage.

The Defense Health Agency (DHA) is the healthcare umbrella over the TRICARE Regions. Lt. Gen. Telita Crosland, director of the DHA said of the change in contractors, “We are committed to keeping all of our military families informed about your health plan, your choices, and ensuring a seamless transition to new contractors.”

USN Blue Angels

The United States Navy Blue Angels, renowned worldwide for their precision and aerial acrobatics, represent the pinnacle of aviation excellence and patriotism. With their signature blue and gold F/A-18 Hornets streaking across the sky in perfect formation, the Blue Angels captivate audiences of all ages, inspiring awe and admiration with each daring maneuver. Since their inception in 1946, the Blue Angels have remained steadfast in their mission to showcase the skill, professionalism, and dedication of Naval aviators while serving as ambassadors of the United States Navy and Marine Corps. With a history spanning decades, the Blue Angels continue to thrill spectators and honor the proud tradition of naval aviation through their extraordinary performances at airshows and events nationwide.

Blue Angels Show Schedule

June 1-2: Terre Haute, IN

June 8-9: Chesterfield, MO

June 15-16: La Crosse, WI

June 22-23: Dayton, OH

June 29-30: Traverse City, MI

July 6-7: Johnson City, NY

July 13: Pensacola Beach, FL

July 27-28: Fargo, ND

August 3-4: Seattle, WA

August 10-11: Chicago, IL

August 1217-18: Colorado Springs, CO

August 24-25: Wichita, KS

August 31: Cleveland, OH

September 1-2: Cleveland, OH

September 14-15: Owensboro, KY

September 21-22: NAS Oceana, VA

September 28-29: MCAS Miramar, CA

October 5-6: Reno, NV

October 12-13: San Francisco, CA

October 19-20  Jacksonville Beach, Florida

October 26-27: Houston, TX

November 1-2: Pensacola, FL

USAF Thunderbirds

Since their formation in 1953, the Thunderbirds have captivated audiences worldwide with their breathtaking aerobatic maneuvers and precision formations, showcasing the unparalleled capabilities of the United States Air Force. As ambassadors of airpower, the Thunderbirds embody the spirit of excellence, teamwork, and innovation, inspiring audiences young and old as they demonstrate the strength and precision of America’s aerial forces at airshows and events across the globe.

Thunderbirds Show Schedule

June 2: Holloman AFB, NM
June 8-9: Selfridge ANGB, MI

June 14-16: Columbus, OH

June 29-30: Hill AFB, UT

July 4, 6-7: Battle Creek, MI

July 13-14: Mather, CA

July 20-21: JB Elmdendorf-Richardson, AK

July 24: Cheyenne, WY

July 27-28: Milwaukee, WI

August 3-4: Brunswick, ME

August 10-11: New Windsor, NY

August 24-25: Offutt AFB, NE

August 31 – September 2: McMinnville, OR

September 7-8: Gatineau, QC, Canada

September 14-15: St. Joseph, MO

September 21-22: Columbus AFB, MS

September 28-29: Salinas, CA

October 5-6: Huntington Beach, CA

October 12-14: Topeka, KA

October 26-27: Peachtree City, GA

November 1-2: Pensacola, FL

A special treat this year is that the USAF Thunderbirds will join the Blue Angels at the Blue Angels Homecoming show in November at NAS Pensacola. It is rare to see both of these aerial powerhouses at the same show, and it is sure to provide amazing entertainment.

Which show will you see this year?

DODEA announced last spring the addition of full-day Pre-K starting for the 2024-2025 school year. This fall, the introduction of Pre-K programs in Department of Defense Education Activity (DODEA) schools marks a significant milestone in the education system for military families. This expansion reflects a growing recognition of the importance of early childhood education and aims to provide military-connected children with access to high-quality educational opportunities from an early age.

One key benefit of introducing Pre-K programs in DODEA schools is the opportunity to support young learners’ social, emotional, and cognitive development. Research consistently demonstrates that early childhood education is crucial in laying the foundation for future academic success and overall well-being. By offering Pre-K programs, DODEA schools can help children develop essential skills such as language, literacy, numeracy, and critical thinking in a supportive and nurturing environment.

Moreover, introducing Pre-K programs in DODEA schools aligns with broader efforts to support military families and address their unique challenges. Military families often experience frequent relocations, deployments, and other stressors that can disrupt children’s educational experiences. By providing Pre-K programs on military installations, DODEA schools can help mitigate the impact of these challenges by offering stability, continuity, and consistency in early childhood education.

Additionally, the availability of Pre-K programs in DODEA schools can enhance the overall educational experience for military-connected children and their families. By starting their educational journey in a familiar and supportive environment, children can develop a sense of belonging and community, positively impacting their academic performance, social relationships, and overall well-being. Furthermore, Pre-K programs can serve as a valuable resource for military families, providing access to early intervention services, special education support, and other resources to meet the diverse needs of young learners.

The implementation of Pre-K has a three-phase implementation plan. Phase I includes installations with available appropriate facilities, while Phase II locations require minor facility adjustments (bathrooms, playgrounds, etc.). Schools identified for Phase III will need more extensive modifications or construction to support expanding PK classrooms. The phases ensure that all schools in the DODEA system are ready for an universal roll out of Pre-K in the fall of 24-25 school year.

The introduction of Pre-K programs in DODEA schools this fall represents a significant step forward in supporting the educational needs of military-connected children. DODEA schools can help ensure that all children can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally, regardless of their family’s military status or circumstances by prioritizing early childhood education and providing access to high-quality Pre-K programs.

If it’s your turn to pack up and move this summer, it’s time to bust out some tunes to help you get organized. Get your kids involved with this playlist to help them assist this summer, all without worrying about what song will pop up next.  Bonus that this playlist works for purging, packing and the actual road trip!

1. Happy” by Pharrell Williams—It’s hard to be upset while listening to this song, and the beat keeps everyone in the groove of purging or packing or whatever is on your PCS list.
2. “Better Place” by NSYNC is a happy, melodious tune for both parents and kids.
3. “Shake It Off” by Taylor Swift – Another emotional one – shake off those emotions, shake off the extra stuff, and get to packing!
4. “Brave” by Sara Bareilles – Every military kid, and parent, are brave as they embark on their new adventure, and the moving prep is part of it.
5. “Roar” by Katy Perry – With lyrics like “I got the eye of the tiger, a fighter, Dancing through the fire,” how can you not roar while packing?
6. “Let It Go” by Idina Menzel (from Frozen)—If this isn’t every parent’s mantra as they go through the pre-PCS purge, I don’t know what is.
7. “Firework” by Katy Perry – Inspiring everyone to ignite the light in them, and quite honestly ignite any inspiration to pack.
8. “Dynamite” by Taio Cruz – Who doesn’t throw their hands up in the air sometimes, especially when packing? Dance, sing and rock to this one while prepping.
9. “I Gotta Feeling” by The Black Eyed Peas – It’s a song with a good rhythm, and that helps with motivation.
10. “Shut Up and Dance” by Walk the Moon – Another feel-good song,
11. “I Like to Move It” by Reel 2 Real ft. The Mad Stuntman – Channel King Julian with this jam.
12. “Walking on Sunshine” by Katrina and the Waves – How can you not smile and dance while singing this song?
13. “Count on Me” by Bruno Mars – The perfect song for the kid preparing to pack and up and move- they may feel stuck in the middle of the sea, but with their family they are never along with the move process.
14. “Everything Is Awesome!!!” by Tegan and Sara ft. The Lonely Island (from The Lego Movie) – If you are going to add LEGO songs to your list, you should also probably add “This Song is Gonna Get Stuck Inside Your Head,” “Not Evil,” and “Everything’s Not Awesome” to round out the LEGO songs and emotional kaleidoscope that packing and moving present.
15. “Rainbow Connection” by Kermit the Frog – You cannot go wrong with anything sung by the green frog.
16. “Under the Sea” by Samuel E. Wright (from The Little Mermaid) – How can you not belt out this song.
17. “You’ve Got a Friend in Me” by Randy Newman (from Toy Story) – Anything Toy Story may bring tears in the parents, but this is a classic song.
18. “Hakuna Matata” by Nathan Lane & Ernie Sabella (from The Lion King) – A great way to wrap up the playlist – you’ve got no troubles when you listen to this fun song!

These songs are sure to get kids moving and grooving, and the adults can jam out as well all while preparing for the PCS.

Summertime is a period looked forward to by school-age children across the country. For some lucky military children, it will also mean moving to explore a new location and an opportunity to check out some new museums along the way. Thanks to the Blue Star Museums program, military children can explore these new places for free.

The Blue Star Museums program is a joint initiative with Blue Star Families and the National Endowment for the Arts. In collaboration with the Department of Defense and museums across America, it offers free admission to the nation’s active-duty military personnel and their families, including the National Guard and Reserve. 

The 2024 Blue Star Museums program begins on Armed Forces Day, Saturday, May 18, 2024, and ends on Labor Day, Monday, September 2, 2024. While the museum list grows throughout the summer as museums apply to participate, the 2024 Map is available online for planning purposes. There are a variety of museums to choose from across the country—here are some favorites.

The San Diego Automotive Museum

This museum will be a hit with anyone in your family who enjoys cars or history, showcasing a diverse collection of vintage and classic automobiles. Located in historic Balboa park, the museum offers fascinating journey through the evolution of automotive design, technology, and culture. For example, did you know there was a car that you could change a tire while it was operating? Interested in motorcycles? What about inspecting cars heralding the Downton Abbey era? This museum has it all!

Stafford Air and Space Museum

Located in Weatherford, Oklahoma, the museum is a captivating destination that celebrates the history and innovation of aviation and space exploration. Named after astronaut and Weatherford native Lt. General Thomas P. Stafford, the museum features a remarkable collection of aircraft, spacecraft, artifacts, and interactive exhibits. Visitors can explore displays showcasing the achievements of pioneers in aviation and space travel, including the Mercury, Gemini, and Apollo programs. Kids of all ages can sit in aircraft, pulling levers and pushing buttons pretending fly.  The kids room allows for safe exploration and learning through dress up and imaginative play. The Stafford Air and Space Museum is a must-visit destination for enthusiasts of all ages.

The Washington Heritage Museums

The Washington Heritage Museums include five locations in Fredericksburg, Virginia: the Mary Washington House, the Rising Sun Tavern, Hugh Mercer Apothecary, St. James’ House and the Mary Washington Monument. The Washington Heritage Museums offer a captivating journey through America’s past that is not to be missed. The Hugh Mercer Apothecary Shop features talks on the medical practices of the 18th century. Explore the childhood home of George Washington’s mother at the Mary Washington House or learn about the 18^th century hospitality at the Rising Sun Tavern. These museums highlight the colonial history that shaped the founding of our country.

The Abraham Lincoln Library and Museum

Housed at Lincoln Memorial University in Tennessee, The Abraham Lincoln Library and Museum features one of the largest private collections of memorabilia on Abraham Lincoln and the Civil War.  Check out the original Emancipation Proclamation, one of only five surviving copies signed by Lincoln, original manuscripts and rare photographs. Whether you’re a history buff, a student of politics, or simply curious about Lincoln’s enduring legacy, a visit to this museum is sure to be both informative and inspiring.

KidsQuest Children’s Museum

In Bellevue, Washington, this children’s museum features over 20 hands-on exhibits to engage children ages toddler to older age. From the water play area in the Water Gallery to the outdoor garden to the ThinkTank area, to the Bellevue Mercantile, where they can role-play as shopkeepers and customers in a mini-marketplace, children will love exploring this museum all while learning (and don’t even know it!)

From history museums, to learning about space to cars to children’s museums – the Blue Star Museums program has it all! Which museum do you recommend? Which one are looking forward to checking out this year?

Okinawa, Japan, has its typhoons. California has its earthquakes. Twisters usually stick within tornado alley. The east coast has hurricane season. For each location and natural phenomenon type, there is a different type of preparedness. If you are relocating to the hurricane zone, you are new to this preparation. Don’t be left behind or left scrambling to prepare at the last minute – be prepared as soon as possible for hurricane season.

Hurricane season begins on May 15^th in the North Pacific and begins June 1^st in the Atlantic and Caribbean. The storm season lasts until November 30^th.

Plan

If you are moving to one of the hurricane zones, once you know where you are living, it is time to prepare for the storms to arrive. If you wait until a storm is announced, you may be too late to find the materials or supplies you need.

Boards for Windows – this can be in the form of storm shutters on the home you can close or plywood to cover the windows. Do NOT wait until a storm is on its way to purchase these. If you do, there may not be any plywood left.

Emergency List – know which emergency numbers you need to call in the event of an emergency in your area. This goes beyond 911. If there is a flooding or power outage in your home, know where these need to be reported to.

Emergency Supply Kit – This kit is meant to provide care to every member of the family to survive for several days after a natural disaster. Ready.gov has a build-a-kit downloadable list to make your own kit. The basics are one gallon of water per person for several days, food for several days for each family member, battery-powered radio and flashlight, first aid kit, extra batteries, whistle, masks for potential dust, plastic sheeting, and duct tape, moist towelettes, hand sanitizer, manual can opener, local maps, chargers and back up batteries for cell phone. It is also recommended to have basic tools of wrench or pliers to turn off utilities.  Make sure to have matches and a fire extinguisher in the kit. Don’t forget about medicine for everyone in the family.

Grab and Go kit – If you do need to evacuate, these items are items you should carry with you should your home flood or be unable to reach it after the hurricane. Have a plastic container with important family documents, including birth and marriage certificates, cash, and prescription and non-prescription medication. Have several changes of clothes for each family member in the kit in addition to games, books, or entertainment for everyone in the family.

Nearest Hurricane Evacuation Route – this may seem like a crazy thing to be looking for when looking for your new home, but it is better to be familiar with it before you are in a mad rush to find it.  In the event that a hurricane evacuation is announced, you will need to utilize the hurricane evacuation route. This usually includes reversing major roadways to allow for more traffic to leave than enter the evacuation zone. If your job is one that would require staying put in an emergency such as this, make sure your family knows the route, and you know where to avoid going. Each state lists the evacuation routes on its transportation website. Read more about using these routes on the FEMA website.

Get the Car Ready

If a hurricane is imminent, make sure to fill your car’s gas tank and move vehicles under cover like a carport or garage. If your car is in a garage, consider moving your emergency kit to the car so it is ready in case a hurricane evacuation is announced.

Prepare Your Home

As noted above, prepare the home by boarding and covering the windows. This protects you from shattered glass from winds.

Clean up the yard to avoid any potential debris being blown by the wind. Move bikes and outdoor equipment like a trampoline, grill, and lawn furniture inside.

Take care to trim any loose branches or trees that could hit the home.

Fill sinks and bathtubs with water for washing and flushing the toilet if water is lost.

If you see downed power lines near your home, turn off the power to your home.

Check the battery in the carbon monoxide detector to make sure it is working without electricity in case the power goes out or has to be turned off.

Watch versus Warning

According to the CDC, a hurricane watch is announced when hurricane conditions are possible in a stated area within 48 hours.

A hurricane warning is when hurricane-force winds are expected to occur in a stated area. The warnings are typically announced within 36 hours of expected landfall.

Among these two, the local area may also announce a hurricane evacuation timeline.

In Case of Evacuation

If you do have to evacuate your home, unplug devices and consider disconnecting power, gas and water to limit power surges and flooding.  Follow the reported evacuation route, making sure to follow any emergency workers who may be directing traffic flow.

If Staying Home

If you stay home, make sure you can reach your emergency kit and necessary paperwork and medication. Do not leave your home to test the wind or waters – you are not Jim Cantore. Listen to the radio for any announcements, including an evacuation announcement.

If you are moving to an area prone to hurricanes, ask your new neighbors and locals where they recommend finding emergency supplies, where the hurricane routes are, and any other questions you have. Don’t be afraid to ask ahead of hurricane season – this will keep you prepared for hurricane season.

Mother’s Day is the second Sunday in May – are you ready for it? We have broken down gifts for moms based on the five love languages. Have Mom take the Five Love Languages Test to determine the best way to fill up Mom’s cup. Then, find the love language on the list and see what would work best for your family. Plan ahead to avoid rushing around with these ideas for the Mom in your life who serves in the military.

Words of Affirmation

1.     Personalized affirmation jar: Have everyone in the family write notes or pictures with their favorite things about Mom and reasons why she is loved. The littlest members can draw pictures of Mom. Use a mason jar and design the outside to your liking—consider fingerprint art or using handprints for everyone in the family. This is sure to be a tearjerker.

2.     Handwritten letter or card: You can’t go wrong writing all your thoughts on how awesome Mom is on a card.

3.     Personalized photo book: Add in those words of affirmation along with pictures of the family. Make sure to include photos of Mom!

4.     Wall Art: Choose Mom’s favorite quote or affirmation and have it printed and framed. You can also design and create the artwork at home and give it to Mom.

5.     Personalized Gratitude Journal: Have so much to say it wouldn’t fit in a jar? Have everyone write down their reasons for appreciation for Mom in a journal and hand it to her on Mother’s Day. Be sure to have tissues nearby!

Quality Time

1.     Plan individual dates: Whether you have a small or big family, quality time is not always easy to coordinate. Plan out dates with Mom for one-on-one time and write these on coupons. If quality time is her love language, this will for sure fill her up!

2.     Sign up for a cooking or baking class together. Check out the local library or community college for classes as sometimes they hold family events.

3.     Plan a family getaway: Whether locally or further out, plan a getaway together. Personalize this based on preference—hiking in a local park, heading out to a theme park, or checking off something from your travel bucket list.

4.     Family Project: Do you have a project you want to do? Perhaps you want to add a garden or renovate that older furniture piece. Make Mother’s Day the day you spend time together tackling that project and spending quality time together.

Physical Touch

1. Mommy Spa Day: Make a spa day at home with a complete foot bath, pedicure, manicure, and massage, all while giving Mom her physical touch. Include scented candles, body scrub, bath salts, and a soft towel.

2.     Aromatherapy Oils: Give mom the treat of oils for different occasions to rub on to address those occasions.

3. Massage Gift Certificate: Give the gift of downtime and relaxation with a gift certificate for Mom to get a professional massage.

4. Foot Massager: A foot massager for home or even work provides a relaxing way to take a break.

5.  Soft throw blanket: Look for a cozy blanket made of cashmere, fleece, or faux fur for a cozy blanket for Mom to snuggle up with. Want to personalize it? There are companies that will recycle t-shirts or even baby clothes into cozy quilts.

Acts of Service

1. Coupon Book: Give mom the ability to ask for things but without asking with a coupon book of things you can do for her.
2. Professional Cleaner: If you don’t have the ability or time to clean at home, hire a professional cleaner to clean the house deep. This is an act of service that possibly allows moms to have more quality time or much-needed downtime.
3. Subscription Service: Sign your mom up for a subscription service that aligns with her interests or hobbies. Whether it’s a meal kit delivery service, a monthly book club subscription, or a streaming service for her favorite shows, it’s a gift that keeps giving.
4. Car Wash: Take the car to get a car wash and detail, or hire a service that will come to her!
5. Tackle a Project: Is there a project around the house that Mom needs to do? Now is the time to do it!

Gifts

1. Ember Mug: Caffeine in all its forms is how most mothers function and an Ember Mug keeps a said cup of tea or coffee warm without the ten trips to the microwave.
2. Tea or Coffee: As said above – caffeine in all its forms. Mother’s Day is the time to splurge on the luxurious coffee or tea Mom enjoys but doesn’t usually purchase for herself.
3. Favorite Treat: What is the treat that Mom doesn’t get herself but loves? Surprise Mom with her favorite treat; it’s something she won’t really expect!].
4. A Book on her TBR List: For the reader Mom, give her the book she wants to read but hasn’t yet—and perhaps cut out some time so she can sit and read it.
5. Something Handmade: Whether it’s jewelry, artwork, or a paper flower, giving Mom a handmade gift is a gift and a gift of time.

These gifts demonstrate thoughtfulness, care, and a willingness to understand Mom’s needs, allowing her to feel valued and cherished on Mother’s Day. Happy Mother’s Day!

May officially named Military Appreciation Month to recognize and celebrate those currently serving and previously served in the military. The month holds several specific holidays recognizing military members – Military Spouse Appreciation Day is the Friday before Mother’s Day in May.  Armed Forces Day is the third Saturday in May, and Memorial Day is the last Monday in May.

Military Appreciation Discounts

Many businesses across the nation offer discounts to the military in honor of Military Appreciation Month. Some of these discounts are offered year-round – like the Waves of Honor program offering free admission to active duty military and their family members at Busch Gardens, Sea World and Sesame Place locations.  Colonial Williamsburg offers free admission for active-duty military, Reservists, National Guard personnel, retired military and veterans, and up to three direct dependents on Memorial Day weekend. In the past, Legoland Discovery Centers have offered a higher discounted admission for the month of May to military members than their baseline military discount. These businesses offer discounts or free admission to thank military families for their service while allowing them to spend quality time together.

Military Spouse Appreciation Day

Military Spouse Appreciation Day is a day set aside to recognize military spouses’ contributions to supporting their Active-Duty partners. The unpredictable schedules, deployments, reintegration, training and separations are all managed by military spouses at home. President Ronald Regan established Military Spouse Appreciation Day in 1984 as part of Proclamation 5184. Many installations and units will celebrate military spouse appreciation with special appreciation events.

If able to, show your military spouse appreciation by thanking them for all they have done, giving them a day off, or simply doing things to help that he/she may not like to do around the house. Record a video expressing your gratitude if you are deployed or out of the area when Military Spouse Appreciation Day occurs.

Armed Forces Day

Armed Forces Day is the third Saturday in May. Armed Forces Day is a day set aside to recognize and celebrate military members actively serving. President Truman announced the formation of the holiday, specifically stating, “Armed Forces Day, Saturday, May 20, 1950, marks the first combined demonstration by America’s defense team of its progress, under the National Security Act, towards the goal of readiness for any eventuality. It is the first parade of preparedness by the unified forces of our land, sea, and air defense”.

Memorial Day

Memorial Day is celebrated on the last Monday in May as a way to reflect on and remember those who served and paid the ultimate price for our freedom. While it has only been an official holiday for about 60 years, it has been a day set apart since after the Civil War.

Honor those who served by visiting memorials. Washington, DC, has several memorials, including the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Korean War Memorial, and World War II Memorial. The Vietnam Veterans Memorial is near Constitution Gardens with three distinct parts: Three Soldiers Statue, the Vietnam Women’s Memorial and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall. The Wall lists over 58,000 names of those who passed serving in the war. The Korean War Memorial honors those who served and lost their lives with statues representing the armed forces and a list of those who lost their lives in the Pool of Remembrance. The World War II Memorial honors the 16 million individuals who served during the war with a memorial with representation for the 48 states and seven federal territories.

Outside of Washington, D.C., the World War II Museum in New Orleans is a great place to visit, learn about the war, and remember those lives lost on not just Memorial Day but every day. Check your local area for memorials that may be specific to your location. There may be ceremonies on Memorial Day specifically to honor those who paid the ultimate price, and this provides an opportunity to take the time to honor and remember them.

Contact your local military cemetery to see if they need help laying flags or flowers on the graves of those who died in service.

While Military Appreciation Month may be just a month, military members serve every day around the globe. Thank you for your unwavering service.