Being a part of the silent ranks can be an amazing experience. We keep the home running while our service members are gone. We raise the greatest kids. We move every few years and keep complaints to a minimum (most of the time). Military spouses always did a lot in the name of love but they didn’t always get a lot of recognition.

That is, until President Reagan saw how important military spouses’ jobs were and created Military Spouse Appreciation Day in 1984. Since then, military spouses have taken the limelight on the Friday before Mother’s Day for a well-deserved day of thanks. This year, Military Spouse Appreciation Day falls on May 9.

Here are 15 ways you can pamper yourself on your special day without breaking the bank.

Get a spa treatment at home:

Complete with DIY face masks:

And pedicures:

Make a sugar scrub for everyday use:

Share a spa day with a friend:

Boost up your water:

Download a book (for free!):

Treat yourself to a cup – either out or at home:

Prefer tea? Make those tea bags do double duty:

Plant a flower garden so you’re always surrounded by beauty:

Treat yourself to something nice:

Make yourself an easy, but fancy dinner:

Plan a mini-staycation:

Still need more tips? Don't want your spouse to forget Military Spouse Appreciation Day. Email this post to them with a little hint to plan something special with the kids so you can relax!   Follow MilitaryShoppers's board #MilSpouse Appreciation Day on Pinterest.