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

Utilize Local Nature for Budget-Friendly Decor

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

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

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

Use Reusable Materials That Pack Easily

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

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

Other Tips for Decorating on a Budget

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

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

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

Group Costumes

1. Classic Ghosts

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

2. A Box of Crayons

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

3. Deck of Cards

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

Individual Costumes

4. Rosie the Riveter

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

5. A Black Cat

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

6. Mime

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

7. Scarecrow

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

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

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

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

Service Branch Specific

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

Air Force

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

Army

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

Navy

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

Check out the offerings here.

Marine Corps

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

Weekend to Remember

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

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

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

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

1. Explore Local Parks and Nature Trails

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

2. Visit a Local Farm or Orchard

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

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

3. Create a Fall-Themed Outdoor Movie Night

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

Consider including neighbors and friends to join in the fun.

4. Host a Backyard Campfire or Storytelling Evening

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

5. Plan a Scenic Drive or Bike Ride

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

6. Host a DIY Craft Day with Natural Elements

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

7. Participate in a Local Fall Festival or Community Event

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

8. Start a Family Tradition of Gratitude

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

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

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

Absentee, Mail Voting, Early Voting for Military Families

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

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

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

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

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

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

The History of Voter Apathy

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

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

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

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

Tight Margins and the Power of a Single Vote

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

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

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

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

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

While there is a lot to look forward to in the fall season, it also marks the beginning of cold and flu season, along with the challenges of shorter days and less daylight. To stay healthy during this transition, adopting a holistic approach that includes good sleep, proper nutrition, vaccinations, exercise, and effective hygiene practices is essential. Here are some key strategies to help you and your family stay healthy this fall.

1. Get Plenty of Rest

Adequate sleep is a cornerstone of good health, and it becomes even more critical during the fall months when our bodies adjust to changing daylight hours. Sleep helps our immune system function optimally, allowing it to fend off viruses and other infections. While studies show that men need less sleep than their female counterparts, it is still vital to get adequate sleep. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night for adults, and ensure children get the recommended amount for their age. Create a relaxing bedtime routine—like reading, listening to calming music, or practicing mindfulness—to improve sleep quality.

2. Healthy Eating Habits

Fall is the perfect time to enjoy seasonal fruits and vegetables packed with essential nutrients that support a strong immune system. Incorporate produce like apples, pears, pumpkins, sweet potatoes, squash, and dark leafy greens into your meals. These foods are rich in vitamins A and C, antioxidants, and fiber, which help bolster your defenses against illness.

Staying hydrated is equally important, so drink plenty of water throughout the day. Opt for warm herbal teas or water with lemon if you prefer a cozy beverage on cooler days.

3. Flu Before Boo

The fall season is also flu season, making it the perfect time to get your annual flu shot. The flu vaccine is the most effective way to protect yourself and your family against the flu virus, which can cause serious health complications, especially for young children, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems. Vaccination reduces your risk of contracting the flu and helps prevent its spread to others. TRICARE covers the flu shot at local pharmacies and offers it at your local Military Treatment Facility (MTF) clinics. It is recommended to get your flu shot before Halloween, remember to get your flu before boo!

4. Stay Active with Regular Exercise

Exercise is crucial for maintaining good health all year round, and fall is no exception. Regular physical activity boosts your immune system, improves cardiovascular health, and enhances mood by releasing endorphins. While it can be tempting to stay indoors as the weather cools, get out and enjoy the cooler temperatures. Go for brisk walks, jogs, or bike rides. Consider at-home workouts, yoga sessions, or even dancing to your favorite music if outdoor activities are limited. The CDC recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week but remember that every little bit counts.

5. Practice Proper Hygiene: Sneeze and Cough Etiquette

With colds, flu, and other viruses circulating more in the fall, practicing good hygiene is essential to prevent the spread of germs. Teach children and remind adults to sneeze or cough into their elbow or a tissue instead of their hands. This simple practice helps contain germs and reduces the likelihood of transmission to others.  If 2020 didn’t teach you this, here is your reminder – regularly hand washing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds is an effective way to minimize the spread of illness. Carry hand sanitizer for situations where soap and water are not available.

6. Boost Your Immune System Naturally

Regularly spending time outdoors can provide a healthy dose of vitamin D, vital for immune function. Even on cloudy days, try to get outside for at least 15-30 minutes. Adequate hydration, managing stress through relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation, and maintaining a healthy gut through probiotic-rich foods like yogurt or fermented vegetables can also enhance your immune response.

7. Manage Stress and Mental Well-Being

The fall season can sometimes bring added stress due to busy schedules, school commitments, and upcoming holiday planning. Chronic stress can weaken the immune system, making it more challenging to fend off illnesses. Incorporate stress-relieving activities into your daily routine, such as reading, journaling, practicing yoga, or spending time with loved ones. Maintain hobbies that bring joy and relaxation to maintain mental well-being.

Staying healthy in the fall is about taking a proactive and balanced approach to your well-being. By getting enough rest, eating nutritious foods, getting vaccinated, staying active, practicing proper hygiene, and managing stress, you can build a strong defense against seasonal illnesses and enjoy all that this beautiful season has to offer. Remember, small daily habits add up to make a big difference in maintaining your health and happiness throughout the fall season. So, embrace these practices, and get ready to enjoy a vibrant and healthy autumn!