The summer military moving shuffle is a common sight. Moving trucks line streets in on post-housing, and among neighborhoods where military families frequent. While many military families leave their previous duty stations, are they moving directly into homes? Is housing affordable?

While the basic allowance for housing (BAH) did increase in some areas in the 22-23 fiscal year, it was not enough for many areas. The housing crisis is nationwide. Home prices spiked during the pandemic and interest rates continue to increase. The housing inventory is low as many homeowners do not want to give up their low-interest rate mortgage. This means that there are fewer homes available for purchase.  Unfortunately, the rental market boomed to prices sometimes double what the rental price was three years ago, far beyond the BAH. Why the huge change in the housing market? Atop of stagnant sellers, another factor is investment groups like Blackstone who purchased many homes during COVID as they lost revenue on their commercial properties. These homes were then turned into a large property management company, Invitation, and rented out at top market prices. These homes, however, have led to lawsuits in some areas due to poor maintenance. When affordable housing is out of reach, what do military families do? And will they ever again have a chance to build home equity like their non-military peers?

A post on a local military spouse group showcases what families are dealing with this summer and have been for the last couple of years in areas where the BAH has not kept up with the local housing market:

“I think we’ve come to a standstill point in our life and literally don’t know the next move. We are paying $2750 [BAH for this member is $2,745] a month for our house, an hour from base. We have survived as long as we can. With gas, tolls, utilities, and food for our giant family, we just can’t do it anymore….We are at our end. Savings is gone, income isn’t enough to cover these expenses we did not expect….We’ve looked into food stamps and they’re telling us we make too much…How are our enlisted friends doing it?”

These kinds of posts are common in areas of high cost of living. Families are turning to programs like WIC and food stamps, but some families do not qualify as the post mentioned. Installations may offer food pantries, but these may be designated only for certain ranks and don’t serve all the families that need it. These programs are just band-aids to a larger problem.

On-installation military housing would be a reasonable answer, but oftentimes in high-cost-of-living areas, base housing lists have a long waitlist. On-base housing affords people with a home managed by a privatized housing agency, on-call maintenance and included utilities all for the cost of the entire BAH. There is not housing for every military member and their family.

Per the BAH primer for the DOD, “Per U.S. Code Title 37 § 403, BAH rates must be based on the housing costs of ‘civilians with comparable income levels [to Service members] in the same area.’” Anchors are set for different ranks for those with dependents and those without. The example used within the primer here, discusses a E6 with dependents with a housing allowance for a 3-bedroom townhouse and a WO3 with dependents rating a 3-bedroom single-family home, and what those costs would be in formula to determine the dollar difference. Certain ranks with and without dependents are used as “anchor” points, and then the formula is used to determine the rate.

The DOD uses several resources to analyze the market area annually for accurate reflections of housing costs. The analysis is done in the spring and summer months when most military families are PCSing, and when the rental market is most active.  Per the DOD, they collect current residential vacancy data from local Military Housing Office representatives, commercial subscription-based rental databases and Robert D. Niehaus, Inc. to determine an accurate BAH rate. Niehaus, Inc reviews rental data and the military housing office reviews that data for safety. Homes like mobile homes, one-room units and homes in poor repair (although it doesn’t say how these are determined) are removed from the data. This data collection is completed in August, and the DOD and Service Housing perform a quality review through October. The DOD determines the total housing costs of median rent and average utilities for each military housing area. The DOD then calculates the rates through November, and DOD typically approves the final rates sometime in December before announcing it. BAH is supposed to cover 95% of housing costs, with the service member to cover 5%.

If the DOD wants its personnel to be content and productive in their roles, then maintaining clean, affordable housing and reasonable commutes would assist with the long-term goal of maintaining attrition.  Nothing is listed in the DOD document about the radius around a military base where housing data is collected. Areas like Washington DC and its suburbs have a much higher cost of living, but the BAH doesn’t necessarily equate to 95% of housing costs in those areas so the data may include 30-60 miles as the crow flies for housing options.

No individual service member information is solicited for BAH calculations. If there is a concern over BAH, the DOD directs service members and their family members to reach out through their Chain of Command per page 16 of the 2022 BAH Primer.  Few service members are going to take that step, and few chains of command will know what to do if their servicemembers bring up this concern.  The reality is that inflation is hitting servicemembers more than just in the grocery cart, it is shrinking the roof over their heads and lengthening their commute.  Base pay and BAH are supposed to keep up, but they haven’t.

Given the fact that military families move every 2.5 years on average, and some more frequently than that, chances are in the next couple of years your military family may be moving. Military children move from school to school, starting in new schools at milestones different from their civilian peers. Being proactive in helping your military children adjust to a new school is key to helping them continue their school success in a new location.

Contact the School Liaison Officer

Each military base has a School Liaison Officer or SLO. They are there to provide information on the local schools, school registration requirements, and any special programming specifically to military children. Looking for a school with an excellent sport for your child to continue? They should know what the options are for your area. This helps you narrow down your home search. Or if school choice is open in the new area, the SLO can help navigate to make sure your child is plugged into the school as soon as you arrive.

Get Your Child Involved

If your child is old enough, get them involved in learning about the new school. Check out the school’s website, which often has a list of clubs and photos of events in the past. This allows your child to learn about the new school and perhaps find things they want to explore once the school year starts.

Take the Tour

When you have your orders, have a new home, and know where your children will go to school, call the school and ask for a school tour. This familiarizes your children with the school before the first day. It allows them to meet teachers, see classrooms, and perhaps see the school’s playground or gym equipment. There may be something familiar from their previous school which excites them. This also is an opportunity for everyone in the family to ask questions about the school, classroom, and curriculum.

Get Involved in Extracurriculars

If you can move ahead of the school year start, plug your kids into an activity that feeds into their school. This gives them a chance to meet people that may be in their classroom. Vacation Bible School, summer youth sports or even local summer camps at the school are good options. Aren’t sure where to start? Ask on the local military base pages and contact the base SLO.

Ask for Open Communication

When meeting the teacher for the first time, share that you are new to the area and you want to ensure a successful school year, so you want to be apprised of any concerns. Addressing academic, emotional, or social concerns early will help your child feel plugged into the school faster. Share your child’s strengths and desires, as the teacher doesn’t have the benefit of talking to another teacher in the school or reading previous school files to learn more about them.

Familiarize Everyone with the School Routine Early

If able to, begin running over the daily routine the week or so before school starts. What time will wake up be? What will need to be prepared the day before? What time is pick up? This is especially key if your family has moved or changed time zones, especially just before school. It also helps parents to be aware of what needs to happen so it isn’t as stressful on that first week of school. Stressed out parents can lead to stressed-out kids, which isn’t a fun way to start the school year.

Celebrate the Small Things

Celebrate what may feel like a small achievement – getting up and ready on time, a great day at school, a report that came back with a fantastic grade. These things will get everyone in the swing of things and encourage continued success.

Use Your Resources

Each school has a school counselor if needs need to be addressed outside of what the teacher can provide. Reach out to the SLO as well, and most bases have Military Family Life Counselors (MFLC) who can help address concerns and changes that are unique to military life.

Home Study Environment

As soon as possible, set up a study environment. Create a space that will be the study space for your students. Ensure it is well-lit and comfortable so they are more willing to sit and study there. Even a spot at the dining room table will work if there is a cubby or place to put school items when it is time for dinner.

By proactively planning and researching schools and being proactive before school starts, you can help your military children adjust to a new school. As with any change, there will be ups and downs, and everyone adjusts at different paces, so be patient with everyone in the family. With patience, planning, and engagement, military children will be ready to embrace and grow in their new school environment.

Back-to-School season is here. Well, if you have been in any big box stores, it’s been back-to-school time since June. But alas, it is actually upon us. Whether armed with your school supply list or not, you can prep for school and save a little money with these tips.

Tax-Free Holidays

Some states offer tax-free holiday periods just before school starts. This means no sales tax is charged on certain items, differing per state, during that period. There are usually caps on the cost per item. Some states include items like clothing, footwear, and diapers. There is no need to apply; if you shop for those items during that time period, no sales tax will be charged. Here is a list of states with upcoming dates and what is included.

If the time period for your state has passed, check to see if you are driving through a state that hasn’t passed yet while on a PCS. You can utilize it! Even without a school supply list for your next school,  you can still gather basic supplies and clothing for the kids and save that tax money!

Connecticut: August 20 – 26, 2023

• Clothing and footwear (up to $100 per item)

Maryland: August 13 – 19, 2023

• Clothing, diapers, & footwear (up to $100 per item), backpacks & book bags (up to $40)

Mississippi: July 28 – 29, 2023

• Clothing, footwear, and school supplies (up to $100 per item)

New Jersey: August 26 – September 4, 2023

• Certain computers (up to $3,000), school art supplies, school computer supplies (up to $1,000), school instructional materials, school supplies, sport or recreational equipment

Texas: August 11 – 13, 2022

• Clothing, backpacks, & school supplies (up to $100 per item)

States that offer tax-free time periods this year that have passed are Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Iowa, Missouri, New Mexico, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, and West Virginia. States can opt in or out at any time; check your state’s tax page for more information on upcoming dates or if participation is set for the upcoming year. Some states also do more than one tax-free period throughout the year, so maybe more dates are coming!

Teacher Discount at Target

This year, Target is offering a teacher discount to not just teachers at brick and mortar schools, but also homeschool teachers. The Target Circle Teacher Appreciation Event is running from July 16 to August 26, and verified teachers can get a one-time discount of 20% on an entire shopping trip. Verification of ID is done through SheerID, just like military verification. If there is an issue with the verification, contact Customer Service at Sheer ID.

Local Giveaways

Sometimes in preparation for the new school year, organizations like Blue Star Families, the USO, or even churches local to military bases will organize backpack giveaways. These giveaways often come with basic school supplies and may in fact come with information about the area. Getting information on local resources is key for military families who just PCS’d to a new area and may benefit from information on the local tutoring, clubs or events in the area. Check out local base pages, and social media pages for the local chapters of Blue Star Families or USO.

Use Coupon Applications

Applications like Ibotta may offer discounts or deals on school supplies. In years past, Ibotta and Wal-Mart offered free school supplies but there is not an ad for participation in 2023. A coupon is still savings though!

Store Ads

Big box stores like Costco often add coupons to their school supply items – sometimes even printer paper. Check out the ads for Staples and Office Depot for buy-one-get-one-free items that may help offset the school supply budget.

Buying school supplies, especially if occurring after an expensive PCS, can be another large expense for military families. Utilizing tax-free holidays, coupons, discounts and giveaways saves some, and every little bit helps with the budget!

Blue Star Families and the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) have partnered together for Blue Star Museums. The program offers free admission to military families during the summer months by participating museums. When you read this, you may think it is just museums – but the program includes museums of all types – children’s, art, history, and science – along with nature centers and zoos! The Blue Star Museums program runs until Labor Day in September – so make sure to plan some free fun for your family with this amazing program. Make sure to check the website before venturing out for up-to-date hours and closures. This is not a comprehensive list, but highlights some categories and options to explore.

History and Science Museums

Have a kid who is a fan of history and archaeology?  Check out the San Diego Archeological Center in Escondido, California.

Check out the West’s history in a way you did not see in the old Western movies at the Autry Museum of the American West in Los Angeles.

Have a Disney fan in the family? San Francisco plays host to The Walt Disney Family Museum sharing the history and insight of the man behind the mouse.

The Denver Museum of Nature and Science is a large museum with special and permanent exhibitions in addition to a planetarium with various shows. It is an engaging way to spend a day.

Maybe trains are more geared toward your family’s interest. The Colorado Railroad Museum sharing the history of the railway along with rides in historic trains will be an outing to remember.

The Peterson Air and Space Museum on Peterson Space Force Base in Colorado is host to an indoor museum and a large static display of planes throughout the ages.

Hartford, Connecticut, is known for its long history, but did you know it is also home to the Mark Twain House and Museum? The museum does a lot of outreach to the local community and shares the history of the famous author.

The Kona Historical Society highlights the history of Hawaii and is a unique museum and a spot to put on the to-do list in Hawaii.

The Chicago History Museum reviews the history of the city, including the 1871 Chicago Fire.

The Stafford Air and Space Museum in Weatherford, Oklahoma, is worth the stop with an expansive history on the NASA space program and beyond, and see the personal effects of General Thomas P. Stafford.

Children’s Museums

The New Children’s Museum in San Diego is a highlight for children ages 1-10, with interactive exhibits, climbing structures, and activities throughout the day.

The Lutz Children’s Museum in Lutz, Connecticut, was once a schoolhouse and is now converted into a museum that kids will be sure to love.

The KidsPlay Children’s Museum in Torrington, Connecticut, is modeled after the city itself but made for kids to explore. The Art & Innovation zones are sure to entertain even older children.

Naples, Florida, has the Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples. Check out their website for activities and events outside of their regular schedule for an even more memorable outing.

Illinois is home to several children’s museums. The Children’s Discovery Museum in Normal, the Children’s Museum in Oak Lawn, the Wonder Works Children’s Museum, and the Peoria Playhouse Children’s Museum are all participating in Blue Star Museums.

Presidential Libraries and Museums

The Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum showcases the history of Eisenhower from his birth in Kansas, through his career in World War II, the presidency and his life after the presidency. His boyhood home is available for tours, weather dependent. The library is also host to many rotating exhibits, with the current one on the history of the Vote for Women. It is an amazing visit for all ages and free for military families with the Blue Star Museums program during the program run.

The Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum in Missouri is another spot to learn about the history of the presidency, America during World War II and post-World War, and Truman’s presidency.

The Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum in Southern California shares a glimpse into his childhood and dives into the history of this infamous presidency. His childhood home is on the campus as well as the President’s helicopter tour.

The McKinley Presidential Library and Museum in Ohio share the history of America’s 25^th president along with the history of the time period. There are also planetarium shows that are sure to entertain everyone in the family.

The Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum shares the life and times of the president and his wife and their impact on shaping American history. This is a great spot to check out in Atlanta.

Zoos and Aquariums

Headed to Florida? The Palm Beach Zoo & Conservation Society is participating this year’s program. Feed Lorikeets, learn about the impact and need for conservation, and use their free printable field guide to check out all the zoo has to offer.

Santa Monica, California’s Heal the Bay Aquarium, showcases local sealife and discusses the impact of human life on the sea in a way that children understand.

If you have nature lovers in your home and will be near Coral Springs, Florida, this summer, check out the Sawgrass Nature Center and Wildlife Hospital for an up-close look at local wildlife.

The Chehaw Zoo in Georgia is home to 73 different species of animals and has a splash pad to cool off in that is included in the zoo admission.

The Flint Riverquarium highlights the local wildlife in Albany, Georgia.

Gardens

The Winterthur Museum, Garden and Library in Winterthur, Delaware, is an expansive garden complete with conservatories and has grown to include stunning art in the museum. It can take a day to see everything on the 1,000-acre ground so be sure to plan plenty of time for the visit.

Key West is known for its beauty, and the Key West Garden with its 15.2 acres of native garden and forest highlights the area’s natural beauty.

After checking out the children’s museum in the area, wander the Naples Botanical Garden for a full day of free fun for the family.

The Vizcaya Museum and Gardens in Miami will transport you back to a time of mansions and innovation and development in our young country.

The Morton Arboretum in Lisle, Illinois, is an expansive garden with a goal of education to impact locally and globally.

What Blue Star Museum will you check out this season?

We’re on to the latter half of summer vacation– as heralded by the full rows of school supplies showing up in stores and back-to-school ads in all the various media forms. But that doesn’t mean you can’t have fun with those last few weeks of summer! For many military families, funds are not aplenty, but the kids still need things to do. These ideas will solve one problem, without creating another. End of summer fun at home. The best part – you probably have these items already. No shopping involved, just fun!

Slip and Slide

No need to purchase the fancy slip and slide.  If you have plastic sheeting (or several shower curtains – you know, from when you had a house that required them, but now you live in a home with shower doors), landscape anchors, dish soap, and a hose – you are set.

Lay out the plastic sheeting across a flat space or going downhill. Once the sheeting is laid out, push the landscape anchors through the sheeting. Make sure to push the anchors down flat to no arms or legs are injured on the slide. Get the hose wet with dish soap or baby soap and spray with water – viola! If you don’t have plastic sheeting or shower curtains, plastic bags work but won’t hold up to anchoring, so be prepared to lay them out multiple times. But it will be fun to slide down!

Sidewalk Chalk Paint

If you have a muffin tin, paintbrushes or sponges, cornstarch, and food coloring, then you are all set. Mix equal parts cornstarch and water and whisk to combine. Divide this mixture into the muffin tin so you can separate it by color. Add the desired color to the mixture in the muffin tin. Give the kids sponges or paintbrushes and go to town on the sidewalk or driveway. All that is needed for paint removal is a hose. It is that simple.

Go for it- create art for the neighborhood!

Cloud Dough

Another simple DIY with two ingredients at home – corn starch and scented conditioner. You can use any conditioner you have on hand. Perhaps that conditioner you got with a coupon is just sitting there because no one is going to use it – this is your chance. Combine 2 cups of cornstarch with 1 cup of conditioner. Mix together the mixture – this will require using your hands and getting a little messy. Once the dough is together, add it to a sealable plastic bag so you can knead it, and it will be less messy. If you want to add coloring, add food coloring into the plastic bag and knead it through. This is a fun way to play, and you can make as many colors as you want!

Popsicle Puzzle

Have popsicles or craft sticks? This one is perfect! Collect a few popsicle sticks and line them up together, forming a square or rectangle. Once lined up, draw a design on them. Perhaps a scene from your favorite summer outing or a funny joke. Once the drawing is complete, mix up the sticks and put them together like a puzzle!

Make it a group challenge by passing up the mixed up sticks to the family member or friend to your right. Once they complete the puzzle, they mix it up and pass it to the person on their right and so on.

The summer season may be going by quickly, so take advantage of those long summer nights to enjoy some fun utilizing things you have at home.

Sage, the first of her kind, joined the aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford as part of a pilot program this May, according to US Fleet Forces Command. The program takes Sage, the first “expanded operational stress control canine” to be part of the crew as part of their deployment. The program’s goal is to provide mental health and operational stress support to the sailors on board the ship.

Sage is a 3-year-old Labrador retriever specifically trained to provide comfort, boost morale, and help cope with the stress of deployment like no other way but a dog can.

Per the Navy, the Expanded Operational Stress Control program was made to promote resilience in the sailors, with the mission to build that resilience “through toughness, trust, and connectedness while educating on stress management to maintain mission and personnel readiness.” The objectives of the program include building resilience, self-care, and buddy care techniques, identifying and managing stress to maintain positive reactions, and connecting sailors in ways to support growth. 

Sage is not the first dog to deploy. The Defense Department has about 1600 working dogs in the military, doing various jobs worldwide. In 1942, the Marines initiated the war dog training program at New River, North Carolina (now Camp Lejeune). Dogs had been accompanying men to war in Roman times, and in World War I, first aid dogs were used. Over fourteen weeks, the dogs were trained in two types of work and understanding cues and commands. The handlers were selected for their character, ability, and intelligence. The first Marine Corps dog unit was sent to the Pacific as the 1st Marine War Dog Platoon arriving to participate in the Bougainville operation in November 1943.

The Marine Corps’ war dog training program initially procured sixty-two dogs, with forty-two going to the Army. Per the Marine Corps University, most of the first dogs were Doberman Pinschers and were shipped to the First War Dog Platoon. The other dogs were German Shepherds or Belgian Shepherds. The other service branches, including the Coast Guard, had war dog programs then. The dogs were used as messengers and scouts dogs during the war. The bonus of emotional support was there.

Therapy dog training is a bit different than the War Dog training school. The non-profit Mutts on a Mission raised Sage. Sage’s primary handler is Chaplain Genevieve Clark, who completed 120 hours of handler training with Mutts with a Mission. There are three other volunteer handlers on the Ford to help with Sage. Clark told NBC15, “One of the positives of having Sage aboard the ship is her help in breaking down some barriers to utilizing mental, emotional, and spiritual resiliency resources. Sailors are coming to more warrior toughness events and improving their morale through the vast network of resiliency resources the ship offers with Sage now present at these opportunities.”

Sage’s daily schedule will include private therapy sessions, attending morale, welfare and recreation events, and general visitation.

Sage is ready to take on the mission. Mutts on a Mission sent her with bedding appropriate for her handler’s stateroom, paw, hearing, and eye protection, as well as a life vest. She, of course, was sent with a waste collection mat.

While the first of its kind, this mission could potentially shape more comfort canines joining the crew to provide doggy-centric comfort.

Summertime is a time to get outside and explore. The layers are shed, and many get out to hike the trail. Throughout the outing and after, make sure to check your skin for small black specks – they may be ticks!

Ticks are very active in the warmer months – spring through fall. They go from tall grass or trees to clothing and onto the skin of humans. They can even hide under dog hair when your dog goes out with you. Knowing there are tick bites can be difficult because the bite itself is relatively painless.

How to Prevent Tick Bites

When you are going out to hike to explore, keep these tips in mind to lessen the chance of a tick bite.

• Wear a long sleeve, lightweight shirt.
• Wear a hat.
• Wear long pants, with socks – tuck the pants into the socks and shirts into pants.
• Wear light-colored clothing so it can be easier to see ticks if they land on you.
• Wash clothes immediately in hot water, and tumble dry clothes on high heat for 40 minutes or low heat for 70 minutes.
• Use an insect repellant containing DEET.

Check For Ticks

Once home from a walk outside, make sure to check yourself, kids and pets for any ticks. After checking, take a hot shower. Make sure to shower within two hours of coming indoors.

Check these areas:

• Behind the ears and knees – these areas can hide ticks easily.
• In the belly button
• At all joints
• At the waist line
• At the ankle line
• At the waist
• Between the legs
• In the hairline

How to Remove a Tick

If you find a tick, the key is to remove it quickly. If the body of the tick is not engorged, it means that it has not been on long and is least likely to transmit illnesses like Lyme disease. Pull off the tick fully, including the head and body. Clean a pair of tweezers with rubbing alcohol and pull it firmly. Save the tick if you need to provide it to your medical provider or health department later.

If you cannot get the tick out, stop pulling at it and see an urgent care or your primary care quickly. The provider will remove it quickly.

If a tick is crawling on you, but has not bitten – remove it quickly and dispose of it. You can put it in a sealed bag, throw it out, or flush it down the toilet to avoid it getting on you or a family member.

If the tick has been on for over 36 hours or thought to be for the time period, your medical provider will likely prescribe a prophylactic antibiotic dose. The antibiotic is a treatment to prevent the long-term side effects of the three major tick-borne diseases.

What to Watch For

Your medical provider will likely review this with you but we will review it here as well. If, after a known or unknown tick bite, a rash appears in a “target” pattern – that is, a bullseye much like the store of the same name, you need to see a medical provider quickly. This rash is called erythema migrans. The symptoms of headache, fever, chills, lymphadenopathy, malaise, fatigue, myalgia, and arthralgia can also occur from Lyme disease.  Unnoticed Lyme disease can lead to multiple joints swelling or pain, nerve issues like Bell’s Palsy, and heart issues. There are pictures of rashes at the CDC site here.

There are other illnesses that ticks can transmit beyond Lyme disease, including Ehrlichiosis, Anaplasmosis and Babesiosis. Know your area with the maps on the CDC website to know your risk. The key is checking for ticks frequently and removing them when you see them.

Today Americans will join together to celebrate the Red, White and Blue. From backyard BBQ’s to watching fireworks light up the night sky, we’ll unite as a nation to commemorate our Independence.

Each year we must remember that throughout history during uncertain times, we have been able to come together and unite for justice, peace, equality, wellness and love for all. This time is no different. This Independence Day, let all Americans not forget that what unites us are our differences and it’s our differences that make us stronger. They make us a nation, they make us Americans!

One of the most well known excerpts from the Declaration of Independence reminds us of the groundwork for our civic responsibility and sets the foundation for citizenship that Americans must uphold.

“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.”

Declaration of Independence, Thomas Jefferson

We as citizens, should live by these words and never forget how they brought us together and will continue to do so as a nation.

This day and every day forward we stand united!

From our Military Life News family to you and yours, we wish you a Happy and Safe 4th of July!

Many families shared they are looking forward to gathering with neighbors and friends for a cookout. All the usual yummies are there – hot dogs, hamburgers, baked beans, watermelon, and dessert. Some even splurge with rubs and BBQ!  

Military families worldwide shared the way they celebrate the Fourth of July this year.

Neighborhood Gathering

Another shared that they have continued the tradition of a bike parade at each new neighborhood with each move. That once started as a tradition on one coast has now continued to and traveled with them, sparking tradition on multiple bases.

Seeking Out Adventure

Some planned special adventures for the fourth of July. Out camping to a National Park on the bucket list or taking the camper out to a favorite campground to get away, explore a new place and really enjoy time together with family or friends. Take out the new camper to a local destination to see how it drives. Several campgrounds have their own July 4^th celebrations with fireworks, meaning no traffic and easy enjoyment from the camper.

Others shared their adventures, including theme parks, to enjoy their celebrations. Places like Legoland California have fireworks show earlier in the day, perfect for younger kids and parents who want to see and experience fireworks but also want to be in bed nearer regular bedtime.

On Post Celebration

Those local to their military base shared that they made it out to their base celebration. “We always have a fun time.” One spouse shared. On-base activities vary across bases from a kid-friendly festival to a beachside concert, varying on the post location.

Checking Out the Nation’s Capital

Some families feel the pull to be in and explore Washington DC. The Memorial Day concert that airs on PBS is amazing in person, but you have to get there early. Seeing the fireworks on the mall being framed by the Washington Monument is an amazing sight. A once in a lifetime opportunity for some, and for those stationed in the National Capital Region, taking in the America’s birthday in America’s capital is a major bucket list item.

In A Hotel

Many military families, ours included again this year, are spending the Fourth in a hotel. They are looking for places to call home at their new duty station or simply waiting for their new home to be available. There won’t be a neighborhood gathering or visits with friends as they are brand new to the base/area and don’t know anyone. It is a reality that military families experience every 1-3 years, so I know we aren’t alone.

One family shared they intentionally checked into a hotel with a nice view to enjoy the fireworks without having to find a parking space or a spot early. She shared that they know the area well, and staying at the hotel with the patio and view of fireworks is something they enjoy doing.  

Staying Home

While some want to avoid the crowds, the travel, the traffic and just stay home to enjoy time with family. That doesn’t mean yummy treats aren’t enjoyed, and the Memorial Day Concert can be enjoyed – but this time on television and not in the heat or fighting for parking.

Favorite Eats

It is no surprise that favorite dishes shared were all red, white and blue. When you live the military life, with deployments and work-ups and waking up to morning colors, the red, white and blue becomes a part of you.

No Bake Red, White and Blue Cheesecake

Ingredients:

-15 graham crackers (makes about 2 cups of graham cracker crumbs)

– 1 stick of unsalted butter, melted

– 2-3 TBL granulated sugar

– pinch of salt

– 2- 8 ounce blocks of cream cheese at room temperature

– 1 cup Greek Yogurt

– 2 tsp pure vanilla extract

– 1 cup heavy cream, whipped

– I cup of fresh strawberries and 1 cup of fresh blueberries

Instructions:

Like all great no-bake cheesecakes, this one starts with a graham cracker crust. If you aren’t using premade, add about 15 full graham crackers to a plastic bag and let out that stress with a rolling pin on the sealed bag. Mix the graham crackers, a pinch of salt and 2-3 tablespoons of sugar in a bowl. Mix in one melted stick of butter. Press the graham mix into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.

In an electric mixer, beat 2- 8-ounce blocks of cream cheese until fluffy. Slowly add in confectioners’ sugar, yogurt, vanilla and another pinch of salt. Mix until well combined and smooth. Slowly fold in the whipped heavy cream. Once combined, pour this mixture over the graham cracker crust and smooth over the top.

Cover and refrigerate for at least 8 hours, overnight preferred.

Once ready to serve, pop the cheese cake out of the springform pan and top with the berries. You can change from strawberries to raspberries or even mix in blackberries with the blueberries. The key is to have the red, white and blue represented in this delicious desert.

Triple Berry Angel Food Cake Roll

Another easy, no bake desert featuring the classic red, white and blue. It can be made from scratch, or utilize the shortcut in store bought angel food cake or use angel food cake mix. We went the angel food cake mix way, because time-savers are key and for those military families living in a hotel with a minimal kitchen, this can still be done.

Ingredients:

• 1 Angel Food cake Mix
• ¼ cup and ¾ cup powdered sugar
• One 8 ounce block of cream cheese at room temperature
• 1 and ½ cups heavy cream
• 1 tsp vanilla
• 1 ½ cups strawberries diced
• 1 ½ cups fresh blueberries
• 1 ½ cups fresh raspberries

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees and line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.

Prepare the cake mix according to the instructions. Pour into the rimmed baking sheet and bake for about 20 minutes. Watch it to ensure the top is slightly golden and no cracks in the center.

Loosen the cake from the pan when it is still warm so the cake can come away easily.

Onto a kitchen towel, sprinkle ¼ cup of powdered sugar. Flip the warm cake onto the towel and peel off the parchment paper. Roll up the cake with the towel inside and let cool at room temperature for 1-2 hours.

While the cake roll is cooling, beat the cream cheese with ¾ cup powdered sugar, vanilla and heavy cream together until fluffy and forming stiff peaks.

Unroll the cooled cake and spread half the filling and half the berries, roll up the cake. Spread the cream filling on top and top with remaining berries. Serve and enjoy!

Caprese Skewers with Blueberries

Caprese skewers take three ingredients: cherry tomatoes, fresh basil and fresh mozzarella balls. On the skewers, alternate tomatoes, basil and mozzarella. Add a pop of blue color to the top of the skewer to complete the red, white and blue.

What is your favorite way to spend the fourth? What recipe do you have to have for the celebration?

1. Check for Local Freebies: Some libraries offer summer programs with coupons for local museums or even free treat coupons if you read several books for a few minutes.  Going out for free frozen yogurt or even checking out a new-to-you museum is a fun and cool way to enjoy the warmer weather together. Some local museums offer free admission on holidays like Memorial Day or July 4^th.
2. Local parks: Check out local city or state parks for free fun. Check the local website for a list of hikes recommended for different age groups. There may even be a summer events calendar – free water play day, teen park meetup day, or even a free movie in the park. If you are new to the area, ask the local neighborhood group.
3. Eat outside: Speaking of parks, why not have a change of scenery for lunch or dinner and have it outside? Pack up sandwiches or your favorite snacks, and go enjoy them on a blanket outside. Don’t forget the bug spray.
4. Playgrounds: Don’t be afraid to take kids of any age to the park. Let’s face it, being an adult on the swings is an enjoyable experience. Take the time to check out your local park, or even pack everyone up to check out a new one.
5. Fly a kite: If you don’t have one at home, consider making one Mary Poppins style. Maybe even sing Let’s Go Fly A Kite while doing it.
6. Camp Out in the Backyard: Gather up sheets, pillows, and blankets and make it a night under the stars.
7. Stargazing: Not wanting to camp out all night? Check out a stargazing book from the library and search the sky for constellations.
8. Go for a Nature Walk: Download the free app Seek and for a walk. Learn about the local plants and insects that inhabit the area. It may even give ideas for your own garden and inspire.
9. Art Day: After a nature walk, go home and draw some of what you saw. Or what you would like to plant if you had a garden space.
10.  Geocache: This free activity provides a fun way to get everyone involved on a hike or walk nearby. Start by creating a free account here to find discoveries and start to come up with ideas on what to leave behind.
11. Bubble Battle: You don’t have to buy a bubble solution; make it at home! Mix two cups of dish soap, two tablespoons of baking powder, two tablespoons of corn starch and four tablespoons of corn syrup with half a gallon of water. This will make the bubbles thicker. Bubbles are best if the solution sits overnight. Use rope, string, or old bubble wands to blow bubbles. See how far they can go or who can make the largest one. This will provide fun for those of all ages.
12.  Backyard Play: Get everyone involved in developing a family play. Perhaps Shakespeare or a family-written play. Set up a stage with sheets. Make costumes with what you have at home. This could take all day or several days depending on the depth of the play. Learning, reading, writing, and enjoying time together is a fun way. Plus, it’s all free!
13.  Scavenger Hunt: Make your own scavenger hunt in your home or backyard. You can expand it to include the neighbors or community if others are interested. Make up hints and hide items or make it about exploring the community.
14. Birdwatching: Download the free app from the Audubon Society to learn about the local birds. Hang out in a park or watch from your backyard.
15. Free Local Events: Check out your local city page for free outdoor movies, concerts or events. Sometimes local theaters offer free or cheaper performances during the day, specifically geared toward children who may not sit as well through a three-hour performance. Free outdoor movies are popular in local parks, and usually, the city website or library has this list of activities online available for review.
16. Library Day: Make it a date at the library. Sit in the air conditioning and check out new books to read. Maybe get a travel book in your area to do some hometown exploration.
17. Farmers Market: While not free, this is a cheaper outing and supports local farmers and artisans. There may even be free samples. Oftentimes, the markets are accompanied by live entertainment. If you are new to an area, this is a great way to really get out and learn about what an area offers.
18. Walk It Out: Make it a goal as a family to hit a certain number of steps a day or maybe a certain distance. If it is hot and humid where you are, plan for an early morning or an evening walk together. This is totally free and provides a planned time to be together, all while getting some cardiovascular exercise!
19. Family Cooking Challenge: While not free, use what you have at home to come up with meal plans for the week. Take turns who is cooking, ensuring the little ones have help, and make it a cooking challenge that can be the most creative or flavorful. Bonus that it takes the guesswork out of who is making dinner and what is for dinner each night.
20. Family Movie Night: Pick a movie from the streaming services or a DVD you have, and make it a plan to have movie night one night. Plan out snacks, set up comfy chairs, and make it special. Have a projector? Take the movie night outside, weather permitting.
21. Family Game Night: All those board games sitting in the closet? Pick a night a week or so to plan a game night. Don’t have access to your board games? Check to see if the local library has a section to borrow, or maybe a neighbor will loan you games!
22.  Summer Reading Programs: While not for adults, kids can participate in the Barnes and Noble Summer Reading Program and the Pizza Hut Camp Book It! Program. These programs have age and grade limits, so make sure you know what they are. The Barnes and Noble program allows children to pick out a free book, and the Pizza Hut program gives coupons for personal pan pizzas – just like when we were kids!
23. Sidewalk Chalk Adventures: Everyone in the family gets a piece of chalk or two to make masterpieces. Draw out hopscotch to play together. Draw out the scenery on the driveway. Bonus that the neighbors or passersby will also enjoy the drawings.
24. Virtual Adventures: Look for online virtual adventures. The San Diego Zoo has live cameras on various animals in the zoo, where you can watch and enjoy. The Monterey Bay Aquarium has live cameras too, and some are set to music for pure visual and audio ambiance. Home Depot offers virtual field trips talking about plants, and various ideas, including Backyard Ideas for kids and how to build a birdhouse.
25. Plan Ahead: Make a plan for the fall on things to do. Check out the library for books if you want to travel. If you need to budget for that travel, get the family involved – maybe it is time to sell some outgrown kids’ clothes, and that money can be given to the kids for spending money. Or maybe you want to declutter for the fall and winter, and it’s time to make some larger donations of goods to a local charity. Summer is all about time off, relaxation, and breaks, but it is also a good time to plan ahead for the fall and winter seasons. Don’t forget to look out for tax-free school supply days, state-dependent, when you can purchase school supplies, kids’ clothes, and even electronics without tax to save money for the upcoming season.

These are twenty-five free or cheap things to do this summer. Which ones will you do?