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Our Blog

Fast fact: Our blog will publish it’s 3000th (yes, you read that right!) blog post in 2023. All of the content is brought to you by empowered experience volunteer bloggers and insightful expert bloggers. You name a topic that a military spouse or organization could write about, we’ve probably got it. Current topics include PCS, deployment, parenting, finances, solidarity, humor, milspouse experiences, expert advice, and more. And if you don’t find what you’re looking for, you can always join us as a blogger to share your story!

Is Living On or Off the Installation Better for Your Budget?

Is Living On or Off the Installation Better for Your Budget?

by | Jul 24, 2020 | , ,

Budgeting (oof). This subject warrants an eye roll, but it’s unavoidable, and that’s why we’re talking about it. Your monthly budget determines the future of your finances, right? It’s important!

So, let’s talk about one of the major budgeting categories (spoiler alert)…housing. While military families often focus on the evergreen debate as to whether we should buy or rent a home, there’s another big decision to make when moving to a new duty station: whether or not to live on the installation. 

The answer comes down to your location and your priorities.

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You’re Invited: Military Protocol and Traditions Explained

You’re Invited: Military Protocol and Traditions Explained

by | Jul 23, 2020 | , , ,

“I cast my lot in with a Soldier, and where he was, was home to me.” — Martha Summerhayes, 1873, Army Spouse

Life with the Army, as you may know, is often exciting; yet it can be challenging and sometimes stressful. Even though Army spouses are busy with their families and careers, there will still be occasions when you will want to know the protocol and etiquette expected of everyone—for example: parades, changes of command, receptions, New Year’s receptions, balls, dining outs, coffees, and entertaining.

The Army Spouse Handbook, recently published, covers in depth all of those topics and more. It’s a 440-page paperback book that has been updated for the 21st century spouse.

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How Nomads Build Community

How Nomads Build Community

by | Jul 22, 2020 | , , ,

We are nomads. Not livestock-moving nomads (unless of course you count children and pets), but nomads nonetheless.

Dictionary.com defines a nomad as “a member of a people or tribe that has no permanent abode but moves about from place to place.” Sound familiar?  

We are certainly a tribe all our own. Regardless of service (Marine Corps, Army, Navy, Air Force, or Coast Guard), we have common experiences with unique language and customs that seem strange at times to our civilian counterparts. With special customs only we understand, we’re like some unique culture in a world of normal.

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‘You Are Worth It’: Healing from MST with HOPE

‘You Are Worth It’: Healing from MST with HOPE

by | Jul 21, 2020 | , , ,

Hope has been the key to Catherine Bane’s healing journey as a military sexual assault survivor—both figuratively and literally.

Catherine joined the Army fresh out of high school in 2003, following in the footsteps of her grandfather, father, and six of her brothers. She was excited about her new journey, which began as a chaplain’s assistant.

That joy and excitement was shattered by, not one, but two sexual assaults.

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Be Your Best

Be Your Best

by | Jul 15, 2020 | , ,

A few weeks ago, my friend suggested that I take the Enneagram Test. I was all for it, since I love taking personality tests, like Strength Finder 2.0, Myers-Briggs, The 5 Love Languages, etc.

After fifteen minutes of taking the test, I had my results. I am 95% a number 1, which means being a perfectionist or the “good girl.” Honestly, I did not like my results, especially since the reason I am the way I am is mostly based on my childhood and trying to be the good girl.

My friend tried to explain to me that this is the reason why I am doing the things I am. For example, being a people pleaser (I am slowly learning to stand up for what is right and that it is OK not to please everyone).

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He Still Gives Me Butterflies

He Still Gives Me Butterflies

by | Jul 11, 2020 | , , ,

At the end of last month, my husband and I happily celebrated our 11th anniversary together with a long weekend away. 

Yup, even with four small children at home, we find ways to make time for each other to keep our friendship and relationship strong. The moments we get to sneak away are not nearly as frequent as they used to be, but I cherish each one. From random nights we stay up after the kids have gone to bed to play cards, or when I decide to take an interest in one of his newest hobbies to watch the excited child inside of him show between the cracks of daily life. 

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