Friday, October 31
Wednesday, October 29
Dear David John (my blackboard message)
Rebecca Pidgeon, songstress, actress and this coming week's
Resource of the Week is holding a Blackboard Message contest.
Write a message to your loved one with words from her song title,
and don't go over 40 words.
Other contest rules can be found here.
Here's my attempt!
Dear DJ,
When you are gone, this is my prayer:
Now I LAY ME
DOWN to sleep,
I pray the Lord,
my BABY keep.
If it PLEASE You,
watch for me,
and bring him HOME
from the ARMY.
Yours, Truly
Be sure to check out Rebecca Pidgeon's myspace and website at:
www.rebeccapidgeon.com
www.myspace.com/rpidgeon
The winner will be announced on November 3's show.
Join us live from 8-10pm.
I want the $150.00 spa certificate.
Resource of the Week is holding a Blackboard Message contest.
Write a message to your loved one with words from her song title,
and don't go over 40 words.
Other contest rules can be found here.
Here's my attempt!
Dear DJ,
When you are gone, this is my prayer:
Now I LAY ME
DOWN to sleep,
I pray the Lord,
my BABY keep.
If it PLEASE You,
watch for me,
and bring him HOME
from the ARMY.
Yours, Truly
Be sure to check out Rebecca Pidgeon's myspace and website at:
www.rebeccapidgeon.com
www.myspace.com/rpidgeon
The winner will be announced on November 3's show.
Join us live from 8-10pm.
I want the $150.00 spa certificate.
Click here to read the rest of this post.
Field Problems: Rich Marriage Resources
I fear my marriage is going to be in trouble when my husband gets home. I’m so used to doing things my way (for these last two back to back deployments). Now he’ll be home, all the time, awaiting retirement with no more deployments, which I love. But, we were ready for a break when he left almost three years ago, and I don’t see how things are different now. We were fine to avoid the hot button issues while he was gone. But now, I’m seeing the light and want help to restore our marriage to potential. What are my options?
Charlotte; Hunter Army Airfield; U.S. Army; almost 20 years
When you ask about options Charlotte, we’re reminded of a short vignette of a friend of ours as told in the introduction to the book Help! I’m a Military Spouse. One of the authors, Holly Scherer, laid out three options: do nothing and remain miserable in your military marriage, divorce (which you’ve made clear you’re trying to avoid), or fight back. Fight against the inclination to throw your hands up and blame the military, blame your husband, or blame yourself. Asking for help and resources is at the beginning of that fight, and we’re here to help and wish you well.
A lot has transpired in just the last few years to make the kind of help you requested readily available.
Tricare, previously thought of for strictly physical health solutions, is now providing comprehensive services in the behavioral health realm. A certified Marriage and Family therapist is one type of behavioral health provider authorized under Tricare. A Pastoral counselor—with physician referral—is another. Costs vary with providers from the Tricare-authorized network vs. non-network providers so be sure to investigate the specific costs applicable to your health plan and chosen provider. A comprehensive Tricare benefit overview and information on mental health and behavioral healthcare can be found at http://Tricare.mil.
There is also a Life Events tab that can help you and your husband navigate Tricare changes due to retirement. Learning and planning together for the transitions ahead can bring about a tremendous sense of unity, something which may have been missing when you learned to live without him these past few years.
ValueOptions, Inc. is the partner that provides Tricare with access to behavioral health providers. They have also developed a Web site that allows beneficiaries access to articles on a variety of topics, some being Family Care & Education and Relationships. The Web site is http://www.AchieveSolutions.net (Achieve Solutions®). There you can get started by reading about “What Makes Marriage Last” and “Overcoming Self-defeating Behavior.” There is also a relationship questionnaire that will help you gauge the true state of your marriage.
Achieve Solutions® is like the Military One Source Web site, which is a great place to start searching for counseling options too. It’s a short-term option, but does not require any referral from Tricare, no co-pays or deductibles, and may even be done by phone. The limit is six sessions per issue. Complicated issues that might be upsetting your marriage such as PTSD or substance abuse might better be served through Tricare referrals or veteran centers.
At vet centers, chaplains and counselors work with service members and their families for all kinds of counseling (e.g. PTSD, substance abuse, and marital reconciliation). You can find the nearest center through the Veterans Administration Web site http://www.va.gov. These “centers” are in addition to the hospitals and clinics and are sprouting in more and more communities as the Global War on Terrorism continues. They are a good place to start for assessment and will support your family in finding appropriate providers in your community.
You and your soldier are not the only ones wanting your relationship to persevere. Military marriages have been the focus of chaplains for longer than you have been married probably. Specifically, since 1997, chaplain-led retreats known as Strong Bonds retreats in the Army have been assisting families throughout their various stages to restore and preserve their relationships.
At http://www.StrongBonds.org, you can find out more information and check to see if there is a Strong Bonds event near you. These retreats are Army specific though.
Here’s an alternative open to all branches of service: http://www.PatrioticHearts.com. This organization hosts marriage enrichment weekend getaways as part of their “3-point plan” to support military couples and recent veterans. Similar to Strong Bonds, there is a curriculum that covers communication, resolution, and relaxation time for just the two of you. It may be the best way to start fresh.
These retreats are very popular, in the same way Operation Purple retreats are for kids. The people attending them are just like you, looking for some guidance and support to get them through these tough times of repeat deployments, frequent moves, and even transition into retirement. Check with your local veterans’ agencies, churches, and support organizations like the Armed Services YMCA, Red Cross, or USO for referrals to similar type events.
There are a lot of couples in your same situation, and we hope you’ll see here there are also a lot of resources to help. Good luck. We applaud your determination!
Have other questions? To submit your Field Problem™, e-mail FromTheField@FieldProblems.com. Please include your first name, location, branch of service, and years in/associated with the military. Questions may be edited for length and clarity. Field Problems™ reserves the right to read on the air and/or publish on its Web site or in any other form the emails and letters that we receive. By sending us a letter or email, you agree to these terms.
© 2008, Crooks and Henderson. Field Problems TM is a self-syndicated column by authors and military spouses Tara Crooks & Starlett “Star” Henderson. Receive this and other Field Problems: SOLVED c/o Crooks and Henderson right in your inbox by signing up at www.FieldProblems.com. Field Problems™ is just one solution to the challenges encountered by military families in Crooks and Henderson's kitbag. Ask about workshops or Field Exercises™ customized to solve your or your organization's Field Problems™.
Charlotte; Hunter Army Airfield; U.S. Army; almost 20 years
When you ask about options Charlotte, we’re reminded of a short vignette of a friend of ours as told in the introduction to the book Help! I’m a Military Spouse. One of the authors, Holly Scherer, laid out three options: do nothing and remain miserable in your military marriage, divorce (which you’ve made clear you’re trying to avoid), or fight back. Fight against the inclination to throw your hands up and blame the military, blame your husband, or blame yourself. Asking for help and resources is at the beginning of that fight, and we’re here to help and wish you well.
A lot has transpired in just the last few years to make the kind of help you requested readily available.
Tricare, previously thought of for strictly physical health solutions, is now providing comprehensive services in the behavioral health realm. A certified Marriage and Family therapist is one type of behavioral health provider authorized under Tricare. A Pastoral counselor—with physician referral—is another. Costs vary with providers from the Tricare-authorized network vs. non-network providers so be sure to investigate the specific costs applicable to your health plan and chosen provider. A comprehensive Tricare benefit overview and information on mental health and behavioral healthcare can be found at http://Tricare.mil.
There is also a Life Events tab that can help you and your husband navigate Tricare changes due to retirement. Learning and planning together for the transitions ahead can bring about a tremendous sense of unity, something which may have been missing when you learned to live without him these past few years.
ValueOptions, Inc. is the partner that provides Tricare with access to behavioral health providers. They have also developed a Web site that allows beneficiaries access to articles on a variety of topics, some being Family Care & Education and Relationships. The Web site is http://www.AchieveSolutions.net (Achieve Solutions®). There you can get started by reading about “What Makes Marriage Last” and “Overcoming Self-defeating Behavior.” There is also a relationship questionnaire that will help you gauge the true state of your marriage.
Achieve Solutions® is like the Military One Source Web site, which is a great place to start searching for counseling options too. It’s a short-term option, but does not require any referral from Tricare, no co-pays or deductibles, and may even be done by phone. The limit is six sessions per issue. Complicated issues that might be upsetting your marriage such as PTSD or substance abuse might better be served through Tricare referrals or veteran centers.
At vet centers, chaplains and counselors work with service members and their families for all kinds of counseling (e.g. PTSD, substance abuse, and marital reconciliation). You can find the nearest center through the Veterans Administration Web site http://www.va.gov. These “centers” are in addition to the hospitals and clinics and are sprouting in more and more communities as the Global War on Terrorism continues. They are a good place to start for assessment and will support your family in finding appropriate providers in your community.
You and your soldier are not the only ones wanting your relationship to persevere. Military marriages have been the focus of chaplains for longer than you have been married probably. Specifically, since 1997, chaplain-led retreats known as Strong Bonds retreats in the Army have been assisting families throughout their various stages to restore and preserve their relationships.
At http://www.StrongBonds.org, you can find out more information and check to see if there is a Strong Bonds event near you. These retreats are Army specific though.
Here’s an alternative open to all branches of service: http://www.PatrioticHearts.com. This organization hosts marriage enrichment weekend getaways as part of their “3-point plan” to support military couples and recent veterans. Similar to Strong Bonds, there is a curriculum that covers communication, resolution, and relaxation time for just the two of you. It may be the best way to start fresh.
These retreats are very popular, in the same way Operation Purple retreats are for kids. The people attending them are just like you, looking for some guidance and support to get them through these tough times of repeat deployments, frequent moves, and even transition into retirement. Check with your local veterans’ agencies, churches, and support organizations like the Armed Services YMCA, Red Cross, or USO for referrals to similar type events.
There are a lot of couples in your same situation, and we hope you’ll see here there are also a lot of resources to help. Good luck. We applaud your determination!
Have other questions? To submit your Field Problem™, e-mail FromTheField@FieldProblems.com. Please include your first name, location, branch of service, and years in/associated with the military. Questions may be edited for length and clarity. Field Problems™ reserves the right to read on the air and/or publish on its Web site or in any other form the emails and letters that we receive. By sending us a letter or email, you agree to these terms.
© 2008, Crooks and Henderson. Field Problems TM is a self-syndicated column by authors and military spouses Tara Crooks & Starlett “Star” Henderson. Receive this and other Field Problems: SOLVED c/o Crooks and Henderson right in your inbox by signing up at www.FieldProblems.com. Field Problems™ is just one solution to the challenges encountered by military families in Crooks and Henderson's kitbag. Ask about workshops or Field Exercises™ customized to solve your or your organization's Field Problems™.
Click here to read the rest of this post.
Tuesday, October 28
jack-o-laterns
www.militarytimes.com/halloween has the neatest patterns for jack-o-lanterns. They have a pattern for each branch of the service! Wow are the something to see!
They have one different one in the Army Times, it's the Army Star. That one looks more my speed. I have to confess, I have problems making the traditional triangle face jack-o-lantern. Does anyone have any tips for the jack-o-lantern carving ?
They have one different one in the Army Times, it's the Army Star. That one looks more my speed. I have to confess, I have problems making the traditional triangle face jack-o-lantern. Does anyone have any tips for the jack-o-lantern carving ?
Click here to read the rest of this post.
Halloween the Season of Giving
Three years ago, in Poughkeepsie, New York a few people got together and created a project that grew to be an annual community event. The event is "The Great Candy Exchange." On November 1 they collect the children's excess Halloween candy to donate to Soldiers serving in Iraq and Afghanistan and local Veteran Hospitals. If the children donate 1 pound or more of candy they get a book or a day pass to the local YMCA or All Sport Fishkill. www.literacyconnectons.org
I'm really touched by this, because lately there seems to be less support for the Soldiers and more protest. Few and far between are the yellow ribbons or the Flags flown proudly. Here are a few people that have rallied for a few years for the Soldier, they have gotten community agencies and business to support them as well as the community. This is truly heart warming!
I'm really touched by this, because lately there seems to be less support for the Soldiers and more protest. Few and far between are the yellow ribbons or the Flags flown proudly. Here are a few people that have rallied for a few years for the Soldier, they have gotten community agencies and business to support them as well as the community. This is truly heart warming!
Click here to read the rest of this post.
Monday, October 27
AWTR Mmmmmess Hall recipes here:
Cranberry-Pumpkin Cheesecake
Woman's World, 11/22/05
C'mon! It can't be that hard!
Regardless of the difficulty, my co-worker swears it's
worth it. So, I'll try it if you do. Let me know how it turns out.
Ingredients
13 gingersnap cookies
1/2 cup chopped walnuts
2 Tbs. butter, melted
4 pkgs. (8 oz. each) cream cheese, at room temperature
1 1/2 cups sugar
5 eggs
1 cont. (8 oz.) sour cream
1/2 cup all-purpouse flour
1 1/2 tsp. vanilla extract
1 cup canned pumpkin
3/4 tsp. ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp. ground ginger
1 can (16 oz.) whole-berry cranberry sauce, stirred
Whipped cream and sugared cranberries, optional
Position racks in center and lower third of oven. Preheat
oven to 350 degrees. Coat 9"x3" springform pan with cooking
spray. In food processor process cookies and walnuts until finely ground; stir in butter.
Follow steps, below, for your triple-layer masterpiece!
1--Press crumb mixture onto bottom and 1" up side of pan.
Bake 8 minutes or until set; cool. Place roasting pan on lower
oven rack; fill halfway with water. At medium-high speed beat cream cheese and sugar until fluffy, 3 minutes. At low speed beat in eggs, one at a time. Beat in sour cream, flour and vanilla. At medium speed beat 2 minutes.
2--Pour half of batter into crust. Bake 40 minutes or until center jiggles slightly when pan is shaken. Meanwhile, at low speed beat pumpkin, cinnamon and ginger into remaining batter. Spread cranberry sauce over hot cheesecake layer, leaving 1/2" border.
3--Top with pumpkin batter. Batter will almost come up to top edge of pan.
Bake 40-45 minutes or until center jiggles slightly when pan is shaken. Turn oven off; let cake stand in oven with door closed 20 minutes. Run knife around edge to loosen. Cool. Cover; refrigerate overnight. If desired, transfer whipped cream to pastry bag fitted with large star tip; pipe onto cake. Garnish with cranberries.
Woman's World, 11/22/05
C'mon! It can't be that hard!
Regardless of the difficulty, my co-worker swears it's
worth it. So, I'll try it if you do. Let me know how it turns out.
Ingredients
13 gingersnap cookies
1/2 cup chopped walnuts
2 Tbs. butter, melted
4 pkgs. (8 oz. each) cream cheese, at room temperature
1 1/2 cups sugar
5 eggs
1 cont. (8 oz.) sour cream
1/2 cup all-purpouse flour
1 1/2 tsp. vanilla extract
1 cup canned pumpkin
3/4 tsp. ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp. ground ginger
1 can (16 oz.) whole-berry cranberry sauce, stirred
Whipped cream and sugared cranberries, optional
Position racks in center and lower third of oven. Preheat
oven to 350 degrees. Coat 9"x3" springform pan with cooking
spray. In food processor process cookies and walnuts until finely ground; stir in butter.
Follow steps, below, for your triple-layer masterpiece!
1--Press crumb mixture onto bottom and 1" up side of pan.
Bake 8 minutes or until set; cool. Place roasting pan on lower
oven rack; fill halfway with water. At medium-high speed beat cream cheese and sugar until fluffy, 3 minutes. At low speed beat in eggs, one at a time. Beat in sour cream, flour and vanilla. At medium speed beat 2 minutes.
2--Pour half of batter into crust. Bake 40 minutes or until center jiggles slightly when pan is shaken. Meanwhile, at low speed beat pumpkin, cinnamon and ginger into remaining batter. Spread cranberry sauce over hot cheesecake layer, leaving 1/2" border.
3--Top with pumpkin batter. Batter will almost come up to top edge of pan.
Bake 40-45 minutes or until center jiggles slightly when pan is shaken. Turn oven off; let cake stand in oven with door closed 20 minutes. Run knife around edge to loosen. Cool. Cover; refrigerate overnight. If desired, transfer whipped cream to pastry bag fitted with large star tip; pipe onto cake. Garnish with cranberries.
Click here to read the rest of this post.
The Day After He Left For Iraq...
Tonight on AWTR - Author and Military Wife Melissa Seligman. Her book (featured below) is the topic of discussion. Grab your book here off the AWTR booklist!
Click here to read the rest of this post.
Happy Halloween - Care Package Ideas
I know not everyone celebrates Halloween but it is one of my favorite holidays. I guess I'm being nieve to see past the "evil" and scary part of it but I do. I see the time that the families get together and the neighborly "treats" and a time where kids get to use their imagination and be someone or something totally creative.
I thought for my blog post this week I'd share my favorite halloween treat. I LOVE popcorn balls! My friend Cindy makes what she calls "White Trash Popcorn". It has been one of my favorite Halloween treats for a few years now. You take popcorn, nuts, m&ms (or I use reeses pieces), and then you make the "goo" to stick it together with marshmallows and butter (like you use for rice crispie treats). Just mix it all and put it in a big ole' pan. YUM!
And..I know it's probably cutting it close but I also wanted to share the article I wrote on Holiday care package ideas for Halloween. So here you go!
Spooktacular Care Packages
© Tara Crooks
Do you feel the chill in the air? I love fall. The leaves are starting to turn colors and tumble to the ground. It’s time for chilli, sweatshirts, and fall crafting. October is one of the most fun months because we get to celebrate Halloween! You all know I am the queen of care package ideas so I thought I’d give you some great ideas for Halloween.
We spouses know our soldiers are just giant children at heart. Celebrating holidays across the miles can be a lot more fun if you pack up the perfect bash in a box! Several of my husband’s soldiers still laugh and talk about the Halloween treats I sent them when he was deployed! I encourage you to surprise your soldier with something “spooky” this holiday.
Halloween candy (and lots of it!)
Halloween decorations (streamers, caution tape, etc.)
Fake blood
Plastic rat, bat, or snakes
Glow sticks
Ghosts
Purple or orange lights
Plastic pumpkins
Markers & stickers to decorate
Spiders & spider webs
Halloween toys
Silly string
Gum eyeballs
Mask
Wig
Costume
Funny teeth
Face paint
Scary movies
Scary music
Halloween crossword puzzles
Halloween craft
Family pictures (of past Halloweens)
Halloween themed paper and pens
Halloween themed games
Pillsbury Halloween themed cookies
Orange and black rice krispie treats
Really jazz it up and make a “trick” box and a “treat” box. Use your imagination on what to include.
DIY Network (www.diynetwork.com) has a template for a Pumpkin Picking Mini Memory Book. You don't have to wait for the pumpkin patch to come around to make this book.
Hershey’s has some great ideas, recipes, crafts and more at www.trickortreats.com.
Here’s some Halloween riddles: http://www.dltk-holidays.com/Halloween/riddles/index.htm and some Halloween coloring pages www.coloring-page.net/halloween.html.
Whatever you do, have fun with it. Your soldier will be able to tell the love and joy that went into creating their package!
Click here to read the rest of this post.
Sunday, October 26
Children's Art and Essay Contest
Art Contest : `My Military Family' The Armed Services YMCA will award six U.S. Savings bonds of $500 for first-place entries, and $100 bonds for second place. Dependents of active duty military or retired from the Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force, Coast Guard or National Guard/Reserves, in kindergarten through sixth grade, are eligible to enter. Deadline for entering is Friday, February 20, 2009.
Essay Contest : `My Military Hero' One $500 first place and one $100 second place bond will be awarded in each grade category 1-2, 3-4, 5-6, 7-8. Students in two high school categories, 9-10 and 11-12, will be awarded $1,000 bonds for first place, and $200 bonds for second place. In addition, there are two $100 bonds for essays of honorable mention. Students are asked to write about "My Military Hero". The essay can focus on any person who is/has served in the US military. Grades eight and below should submit entries with a minimum of 100 words and maximum of 300 words. High school students' (9-12) entries should be no less than 300 words and no more than 500 words.Deadline for entering is Friday, March 20, 2009.You can find entry forms here: http://www.asymca. org/Default. aspx
__________________
Essay Contest : `My Military Hero' One $500 first place and one $100 second place bond will be awarded in each grade category 1-2, 3-4, 5-6, 7-8. Students in two high school categories, 9-10 and 11-12, will be awarded $1,000 bonds for first place, and $200 bonds for second place. In addition, there are two $100 bonds for essays of honorable mention. Students are asked to write about "My Military Hero". The essay can focus on any person who is/has served in the US military. Grades eight and below should submit entries with a minimum of 100 words and maximum of 300 words. High school students' (9-12) entries should be no less than 300 words and no more than 500 words.Deadline for entering is Friday, March 20, 2009.You can find entry forms here: http://www.asymca. org/Default. aspx
__________________
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Thursday, October 23
Join the AWTR Listener's Group at MyVetwork.com
All:
MyVetwork.com is a online social networking designed to be the most valuable and sustaining group of individuals in the US Military.
AWTR has set up a Listener's Group at MyVetworks.com where we can post messages, keep in contact with our calendars, network and meet other spouses and more!
Won't you join us? We have a goal to hit 50 network members by Nov 11th (Veteran's Day) and the official launch day of MyVetworks!
It's simple to join - just register at www.myvetworks.com and then once you're all set up in their (really cool) system click on AWTR Listener's Group under the GROUP tab and join!
We'll see you there!!
Click here to read the rest of this post.
How to Teach Kids About Veterans Day
Veterans Day is a great time to educate your children about the history of this holiday and the sacrifice and dedication of our U.S. veterans. So, how do you celebrate this holiday in a creative and constructive way with your children?
How to Teach Kids About Veterans Day
Here are a few ideas, according to the Department of Veterans Affairs and EducationWorld.com:
1. Teach your children about the history of Veterans Day by having them create a time line of events leading to the observance of the holiday.
2. Have your kids write short articles or essays of how veterans are honored around the world. And if you know any veterans locally, propose that your kids interview them about what it's like to serve in the U.S. military.
3. Research how American veterans were treated after they returned from various military conflicts, ranging from the French and Indian War to the Persian Gulf War. Ask your children to compare and contrast their findings. Also compare and contrast how women and minorities who served in those conflicts were treated.
4. Have children draw a picture of Veterans Day, and what this holiday means to them. Military children can draw a picture of a parent who is currently deployed, or a relative who has served.
5. Make a thank you card for veterans. Children can give this card to veterans that they know or to veterans who are listed through the local VA medical facility.
6. Ask your children's teacher to invite veterans to their classroom. Veterans can discuss what it's like to serve in the military, and how important it is to observe this holiday.
7. Have your kids make a colorful and fun poster with the names and pictures of relatives who are veterans.
There are a variety of ways to celebrate Veterans Day with your children. And teaching children about the significance of this holiday will help give them a deep appreciation of our nation's servicemembers and veterans.
Source: http://www.military.com/veteransday/Celebrate_Kids.htm
How to Teach Kids About Veterans Day
Here are a few ideas, according to the Department of Veterans Affairs and EducationWorld.com:
1. Teach your children about the history of Veterans Day by having them create a time line of events leading to the observance of the holiday.
2. Have your kids write short articles or essays of how veterans are honored around the world. And if you know any veterans locally, propose that your kids interview them about what it's like to serve in the U.S. military.
3. Research how American veterans were treated after they returned from various military conflicts, ranging from the French and Indian War to the Persian Gulf War. Ask your children to compare and contrast their findings. Also compare and contrast how women and minorities who served in those conflicts were treated.
4. Have children draw a picture of Veterans Day, and what this holiday means to them. Military children can draw a picture of a parent who is currently deployed, or a relative who has served.
5. Make a thank you card for veterans. Children can give this card to veterans that they know or to veterans who are listed through the local VA medical facility.
6. Ask your children's teacher to invite veterans to their classroom. Veterans can discuss what it's like to serve in the military, and how important it is to observe this holiday.
7. Have your kids make a colorful and fun poster with the names and pictures of relatives who are veterans.
There are a variety of ways to celebrate Veterans Day with your children. And teaching children about the significance of this holiday will help give them a deep appreciation of our nation's servicemembers and veterans.
Source: http://www.military.com/veteransday/Celebrate_Kids.htm
Click here to read the rest of this post.
Wednesday, October 22
What makes you happy? Smile? Laugh?
Last week on the show for Army Wife Life we talked about what tickled our funny bones, what made us laugh, de-stress, smile, or just plain ole' made us happy. What makes you happy? What makes you laugh, de-stress, or smile?
When everything is going wrong I just want a hug. Hugs can go a long way. I'll take them from a friend or family member but the best ones are from my girls or from my hubby.
When I need a break or some down time nothing can make me relax like a glass of wine and Grey's Anatomy.
When I'm feeling overwhelmed I organize. Whether it's a schedule or a closet - it always puts things into perspective to organize it.
When I just want to smile.....it's Bobby Bobby Rotten Dog. I don't know what I would do without my animals. They keep my blood pressure down that is for sure! Seriously ..how could you not smile with faces like these?
Bobby Joe Crooks
Sylvia "Lou" Crooks
How about you? What do you do?
When everything is going wrong I just want a hug. Hugs can go a long way. I'll take them from a friend or family member but the best ones are from my girls or from my hubby.
When I need a break or some down time nothing can make me relax like a glass of wine and Grey's Anatomy.
When I'm feeling overwhelmed I organize. Whether it's a schedule or a closet - it always puts things into perspective to organize it.
When I just want to smile.....it's Bobby Bobby Rotten Dog. I don't know what I would do without my animals. They keep my blood pressure down that is for sure! Seriously ..how could you not smile with faces like these?
Bobby Joe Crooks
Sylvia "Lou" Crooks
How about you? What do you do?
Click here to read the rest of this post.
Tuesday, October 21
Congratulations Adrienne!
CONGRATULATIONS goes out to Adrienne McTague - Contestant #1 in the AWTR Army Wife Strong Video Contest. She came in with a bit over 9,000 votes (now it's up to almost 10,500!!) on Friday edging out Deanna Cole - Contestant #2 for the win. ALL FOUR CONTESTANTS DID A FABULOUS JOB!!
Adrienne marketed her video all over the web. I saw comments coming in from Tyra Banks show, Ellen, and even Oprah. Good job promoting your video! The cool thing is that every time anyone watched ANY of these videos they learned about AWTR! Now, that's some grass roots marketing!!!
FOR HER WIN - Adrienne will receive a new AWTR Army Wife Network Tshirt, a sparkling HOOAH pin, several books by military authors, a cake from www.WireACake.com, and a video recorder from USAA.
Congratulations Adrienne!!
Adrienne marketed her video all over the web. I saw comments coming in from Tyra Banks show, Ellen, and even Oprah. Good job promoting your video! The cool thing is that every time anyone watched ANY of these videos they learned about AWTR! Now, that's some grass roots marketing!!!
FOR HER WIN - Adrienne will receive a new AWTR Army Wife Network Tshirt, a sparkling HOOAH pin, several books by military authors, a cake from www.WireACake.com, and a video recorder from USAA.
Congratulations Adrienne!!
Click here to read the rest of this post.
Freedom Team Salute
Freedom Team Salute is a Secretary of the Army and Army Chief of Staff program launched in May 2005. Freedom Team Salute celebrates the sacrifices made by those who support America's Soldier. Active duty Soldiers can honor their parents and spouse. Guard and Reserve can honor their parents, spouse and employer. Anyone can honor a Veteran. They have a new category Army supporter!! Anyone can honor an Army supporter. I'm so glad they added this category!
Those who are honored get a commendation package which include: certificate of appreciation and a personalized letter of thanks from the Secretary of the Army and Army Chief of Staff, a U.S. Army Lapel pin, and U.S. Army decal. The package is provided at no cost to either the nominator or the recipient. The package arrives in 4-6 weeks.
Anyone interested in becoming a volunteer Freedom Team Salute Ambassador can visit their web site www.feedomteamsalute.com
Those who are honored get a commendation package which include: certificate of appreciation and a personalized letter of thanks from the Secretary of the Army and Army Chief of Staff, a U.S. Army Lapel pin, and U.S. Army decal. The package is provided at no cost to either the nominator or the recipient. The package arrives in 4-6 weeks.
Anyone interested in becoming a volunteer Freedom Team Salute Ambassador can visit their web site www.feedomteamsalute.com
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Monday, October 20
Less than two weeks!
Less than two weeks to my BIG recital! I can't believe it's almost here. This is almost as big as my wedding will be! I bought a pretty dress and I'm gonna somehow get my hair done. I'll do my own nails. My mom and dad are coming from out of town! It's a big to do. It's my night to shine as a singer. This is a requirement for my degree!
I participated in a competition this past weekend called the NATS (National Association of Teachers of Singing) at Murray State University in Murray, KY. It was quite the adventure. Anyway, I won my category (adult intermediate) in the competition. For the Finals round, it's like one HUGE 5 hour long concert. All the finalists sing just 1 of the songs that they had sung in the earlier rounds. I sang a piece called Zueignung by Richard Strauss. It's a very beautiful piece. It won me the competition.
My voice teacher took 5 students to the competition. All 5 of us made it to finals and placed either first or second. It was a good weekend. We get comment sheets back, so I'm excited to learn from the constructive criticism. It will help wiht the recital that I have in less than two weeks!
I participated in a competition this past weekend called the NATS (National Association of Teachers of Singing) at Murray State University in Murray, KY. It was quite the adventure. Anyway, I won my category (adult intermediate) in the competition. For the Finals round, it's like one HUGE 5 hour long concert. All the finalists sing just 1 of the songs that they had sung in the earlier rounds. I sang a piece called Zueignung by Richard Strauss. It's a very beautiful piece. It won me the competition.
My voice teacher took 5 students to the competition. All 5 of us made it to finals and placed either first or second. It was a good weekend. We get comment sheets back, so I'm excited to learn from the constructive criticism. It will help wiht the recital that I have in less than two weeks!
Click here to read the rest of this post.
Expectations
Expectations: In the case of uncertainty, expectation is what is considered the most likely to happen. An expectation, which is a belief that is centered on the future, may or may not be realistic. A less advantageous result gives rise to the emotion of disappointment. If something happens that is not at all expected it is a surprise. An expectation about the behavior or performance of another person, expressed to that person, may have the nature of a strong request, or an order.
Expectations have been the topic of conversation at my house this past week. What exactly about them? It's true that my expectations are high. It's inherent. I can't change it, I've tried. Having high expectations is not such a bad thing. It's what keeps me motivated. It's what gives me goals. It's why my laundry gets done. It's why my business moves forward. You get the point.
Having high expectations for yourself is one thing, having them for another is a completely different story. A story that can lead to disappointment, anger, hurt, and sometimes not just on your part. If you don't expect enough from someone you're said to not have enough confidence in them. If you expect to much, you're a pain in their side and needy.
Finding the balance can only be done by trial and error. How much are they willing to work? Can you count on them? Are they a good friend? Can they be trusted? Give them something to do. Ask them for a favor. Trust them with something important. If it works, great! You know what to expect. If it doesn't, the same is true.
All of this gets thrown out the window when you apply it to the ARMY because ...well let's face it...it implies logic. Logic = Army ...ha...not so much! So how many of you have high expectations? Believe in the best? Think it will all work out? Think a schedule is a schedule? Trust that people will do what they say they will? I'll admit. I do.
How many of you find yourself beating your head agains the proverbial brick wall when your husband has a weekend scheduled off and then at the last minute he doesn't? Nevermind the plans you've made to go out of town, the tickets you've bought, the reservations you've made? None of them matter. It's not HIS fault but ARGGGHHH don't you just want to scream?
Or please PLEASE tell me that I'm not the only one who "expects" things differently when they are deployed vs. when they're home. It's true isn't it? I mean when they're deployed expectations are simple. You have none. At least when it comes to how much help you'll get around the house. You might expect him to call or email but you know who's gonna be doing the dishes and feeding the dog. Y-O-U! So what happens when they are home? You form a COMPLETELY different set of expectations for them. It's so hard. I tried explaining it to my husband and he thinks I'm crazy. He doesn't understand why having him home would be more work. Anyone with me here? Um, let's see - I miss you when you're gone and I wouldn't TRADE you being there vs. here for THE WORLD - but ya, it's more work when you're home. There's more socks to pick up, one more person to feed (er, I mean dinner vs. cereal to eat), there's another towel on the rack, three more loads of laundry, a completely different schedule, two parents vs. one (read as: two sets of rules to compromise)...shall I go on?
This week the "tiff" was the fact that since we moved to Fort Sill to "teach" and not to deploy for a bit so that we could have time together as a family that I EXPECTED that that meant he would be home before 6pm each night and might have the weekend off. Now, I realize that this is probably an unrealistic expectations but in my defense it was WHAT I WAS TOLD WOULD BE THE CASE. What I got ...was a big ole' can of - YA RIGHT that'll happen!!!
Did I forget we were in the Army? Perhaps. The only thing I think I should expect from now on is - NOT TO EXPECT. Ha!
Expectations have been the topic of conversation at my house this past week. What exactly about them? It's true that my expectations are high. It's inherent. I can't change it, I've tried. Having high expectations is not such a bad thing. It's what keeps me motivated. It's what gives me goals. It's why my laundry gets done. It's why my business moves forward. You get the point.
Having high expectations for yourself is one thing, having them for another is a completely different story. A story that can lead to disappointment, anger, hurt, and sometimes not just on your part. If you don't expect enough from someone you're said to not have enough confidence in them. If you expect to much, you're a pain in their side and needy.
Finding the balance can only be done by trial and error. How much are they willing to work? Can you count on them? Are they a good friend? Can they be trusted? Give them something to do. Ask them for a favor. Trust them with something important. If it works, great! You know what to expect. If it doesn't, the same is true.
All of this gets thrown out the window when you apply it to the ARMY because ...well let's face it...it implies logic. Logic = Army ...ha...not so much! So how many of you have high expectations? Believe in the best? Think it will all work out? Think a schedule is a schedule? Trust that people will do what they say they will? I'll admit. I do.
How many of you find yourself beating your head agains the proverbial brick wall when your husband has a weekend scheduled off and then at the last minute he doesn't? Nevermind the plans you've made to go out of town, the tickets you've bought, the reservations you've made? None of them matter. It's not HIS fault but ARGGGHHH don't you just want to scream?
Or please PLEASE tell me that I'm not the only one who "expects" things differently when they are deployed vs. when they're home. It's true isn't it? I mean when they're deployed expectations are simple. You have none. At least when it comes to how much help you'll get around the house. You might expect him to call or email but you know who's gonna be doing the dishes and feeding the dog. Y-O-U! So what happens when they are home? You form a COMPLETELY different set of expectations for them. It's so hard. I tried explaining it to my husband and he thinks I'm crazy. He doesn't understand why having him home would be more work. Anyone with me here? Um, let's see - I miss you when you're gone and I wouldn't TRADE you being there vs. here for THE WORLD - but ya, it's more work when you're home. There's more socks to pick up, one more person to feed (er, I mean dinner vs. cereal to eat), there's another towel on the rack, three more loads of laundry, a completely different schedule, two parents vs. one (read as: two sets of rules to compromise)...shall I go on?
This week the "tiff" was the fact that since we moved to Fort Sill to "teach" and not to deploy for a bit so that we could have time together as a family that I EXPECTED that that meant he would be home before 6pm each night and might have the weekend off. Now, I realize that this is probably an unrealistic expectations but in my defense it was WHAT I WAS TOLD WOULD BE THE CASE. What I got ...was a big ole' can of - YA RIGHT that'll happen!!!
Did I forget we were in the Army? Perhaps. The only thing I think I should expect from now on is - NOT TO EXPECT. Ha!
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30 Years of Women in the Army!
Beginning Oct. 20 through Nov. 14, the U.S. Army will honor the achievements of its women warriors as part of a three-week “Celebration of Women in the Army.” The commemoration coincides with the anniversary of the full integration of women into the Army for 30 years, with the disestablishment of the Women’s Army Corps by former President Jimmy Carter.
JUST THE FACTS M'AM...
Women represent 14.0% of the active Army, 23.2 % of the Army Reserve and 13.3 % of the Army National Guard (Sep 2006)
As of 3 October 2006 there were 15,226 women serving in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom.
Check out more about Women in the Army by clicking here!
JUST THE FACTS M'AM...
Women represent 14.0% of the active Army, 23.2 % of the Army Reserve and 13.3 % of the Army National Guard (Sep 2006)
As of 3 October 2006 there were 15,226 women serving in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom.
Check out more about Women in the Army by clicking here!
Click here to read the rest of this post.
CVS/pharmacy Launches Kodak Picture Movie DVD – Turn Snapshots into Movies
New DVD Enables Customers to Add Motion and Music to a Selection of Favorite Photos to Create a Movie of Memories Perfect for Gifts and Parties
Woonsocket, RI, June 1, 2008 – CVS/pharmacy, the retail leader in digital imaging services and products, announced today the launch of the new Kodak Picture Movie DVD. This new DVD enables customers to turn their favorite photos into a movie experience set to music within minutes and is available to be taken home that same day. Beginning June 14, 2008, the Kodak Picture Movie will be available nationwide at CVS/pharmacy Photo Centers.
The DVD is $14.99 and can be quickly and easily created at the Kodak Picture Kiosk. Customers choose up to 40 to 60 of their favorite photos and then add music from a selection of original songs by top-name artists ranging from “I’m So Excited” by the Pointer Sisters to “Walking on Sunshine” by Katrina and the Waves. In addition, professional-style pan and zoom effects add motion to the pictures, differentiating it from a standard slideshow DVD. Finally, consumers can print a picture from the DVD selection to create a personalized cover image for their finished product.
The Kodak Picture Movie DVD is the perfect way to commemorate a special occasion, from graduation to a family vacation, or simply to celebrate the life of someone special. To find a CVS/pharmacy Photo Center, go to www.cvs.com/storefinder.
About CVS/pharmacy
CVS/pharmacy, the retail division of CVS Caremark Corporation (NYSE: CVS), is America's largest retail pharmacy with 6,300 retail locations. CVS/pharmacy is committed to improving the lives of those we serve by making innovative and high-quality health and pharmacy services safe, affordable and easy to access, both in its stores and online at CVS.com. General information about CVS/pharmacy and CVS Caremark is available at http://www.cvs.com/pressroom, as well as http://investor.cvs.com.
Woonsocket, RI, June 1, 2008 – CVS/pharmacy, the retail leader in digital imaging services and products, announced today the launch of the new Kodak Picture Movie DVD. This new DVD enables customers to turn their favorite photos into a movie experience set to music within minutes and is available to be taken home that same day. Beginning June 14, 2008, the Kodak Picture Movie will be available nationwide at CVS/pharmacy Photo Centers.
The DVD is $14.99 and can be quickly and easily created at the Kodak Picture Kiosk. Customers choose up to 40 to 60 of their favorite photos and then add music from a selection of original songs by top-name artists ranging from “I’m So Excited” by the Pointer Sisters to “Walking on Sunshine” by Katrina and the Waves. In addition, professional-style pan and zoom effects add motion to the pictures, differentiating it from a standard slideshow DVD. Finally, consumers can print a picture from the DVD selection to create a personalized cover image for their finished product.
The Kodak Picture Movie DVD is the perfect way to commemorate a special occasion, from graduation to a family vacation, or simply to celebrate the life of someone special. To find a CVS/pharmacy Photo Center, go to www.cvs.com/storefinder.
About CVS/pharmacy
CVS/pharmacy, the retail division of CVS Caremark Corporation (NYSE: CVS), is America's largest retail pharmacy with 6,300 retail locations. CVS/pharmacy is committed to improving the lives of those we serve by making innovative and high-quality health and pharmacy services safe, affordable and easy to access, both in its stores and online at CVS.com. General information about CVS/pharmacy and CVS Caremark is available at http://www.cvs.com/pressroom, as well as http://investor.cvs.com.
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Sunday, October 19
Soldier Show
This evening I saw the Soldier Show. I enjoyed this energetic production. The singers got the audience clapping and really getting into the show. The talented performers are all Soldier along with the stage crew. The Show is celebrating 25 years. This years theme is "For the Soldier by the Soldier." They are still touring, so if you get a chance to see the show, it's really something wonderful to see!!!!
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Goodbye's Never Get Easier
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Well, he's off again. As of 0600 he is out of town. This was the hardest goodbye yet, but in a completely different way. Today he left and I knew I could handle the remainder of the deployment. Though, I knew now exactly what I was sending him into. This being our first deployment I really didn't know when he left. It does make me a bit anxious, but I've learned independence, strength and determination. I've learned our love is bigger than war. So taking in that last hug and kiss before he boarded was so tough, but we both looked at each other with this "HOOAH, git er done" vibe. I won't lie, today I feel weak a bit heavy spirited, but I know tomorrow I will wake up and I will embrace a new day and I will charge this deployment as I have been doing. I'm blessed beyond words for the truly amazing time my hero and I had while he was home here on R&R. We enjoyed every moment and we both feel we've grown and our marriage is so strong, stronger than ever before. We have learned how important communication is and we are slowly starting to master that. God blesses us military wives with a little something extra. PERSERVERANCE and GRACE. I'm proud of you girls and all you do to support your soldier and your family. You inspire me. You are my heroes!
Saying goodbye never gets easier, but we grow from the experience. If only that hug and kiss could last a bit longer.
(I hope you enjoy the picture of us being silly!)
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Friday, October 17
Military ID Changes
If you need to replace or renew your military ID, the guidelines have now changes. You will now need two types of identifcation, at least one of which needs to have your picture.
You will need:
-- Driver's license or ID issued by a state or outlying U.S. commonwealth or possession
-- ID card issued by federal, state or local government agencies or entities
-- School ID card with a photograph
-- Voter's registration card
-- U.S. military ID card
-- U.S. passport
-- Certificate of U.S. citizenship
-- Certificate of naturalization
Those under 18 can present school records, day care records or hospital records.
To find the nearest ID office, visit this link: www.dmdc.osd.mil
You will need:
-- Driver's license or ID issued by a state or outlying U.S. commonwealth or possession
-- ID card issued by federal, state or local government agencies or entities
-- School ID card with a photograph
-- Voter's registration card
-- U.S. military ID card
-- U.S. passport
-- Certificate of U.S. citizenship
-- Certificate of naturalization
Those under 18 can present school records, day care records or hospital records.
To find the nearest ID office, visit this link: www.dmdc.osd.mil
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Thursday, October 16
Remembering Romance
As I've been reading about all the amazing reunions between husbands and wives this R&R season (congratulations, Leah, your pictures are absolutely PRECIOUS!), I've been inspired to ignite a little passion with my own husband, who is so thankfully here at home for the moment. It's so funny how, when our spouses are deployed, we dream of all the ways we'll love on them and pamper them when they return home. And yet, once they've been home for longer than six months, we can easily fall into our old routines and take our romance for granted.
After viewing Leah's R&R pictures this morning, I wrote my husband a love note and drove to post (it's a 30-minute drive, so this was a big commitment!) to leave it on his windshield. Tonight, I'm planning a surprise romantic date night (after 7 p.m., of course, once the toddler will be sound asleep) around the fireplace with some sparkling cider (I'm pregnant, and my husband is amazing and doesn't drink when I'm pregnant as a way to share in the pregnancy with me -- we call it "Team Baby") and some candles.
If your loved one is home, don't miss the opportunity to spend some quality time together. You'll miss it so desperately when he's gone (and in this life, it's not "if," it's "when").
If he's not physically around, consider some of these alternative dates to keep the passion burning from Iowa to Iraq:
- Send him a box from Sharemyheart.com. It's a unique Web site that creates love notes and gift boxes to share with your true love. They'll mail them anywhere in the United States and, I assume, to APO addresses.
- Send him a date in a box. If you are movie-goers, pack some popcorn and a DVD and a blankie that tells him you can't wait for cuddle-on-the-couch Cowboy western dates. If you are backpackers, send him some new gear with last month's deployment pay and promise him a good hike when you get home.
- Send him love letters for no reason.
- Send him "kisses" for every day he's gone. Print out 365 reasons you love your spouse. Attach each of those reasons to one Hershey's kiss and send them to him in an insulated (read: INSULATED! IRAQ IS HOT!) box. He'll enjoy a kiss from you every day he's gone.
Never miss an opportunity to let him know that he's loved. Even though he might hide it under that tough Army guy exterior, he'll feel treasured, blessed and appreciated, and those things will help keep your marriage not just alive, but thriving.
After viewing Leah's R&R pictures this morning, I wrote my husband a love note and drove to post (it's a 30-minute drive, so this was a big commitment!) to leave it on his windshield. Tonight, I'm planning a surprise romantic date night (after 7 p.m., of course, once the toddler will be sound asleep) around the fireplace with some sparkling cider (I'm pregnant, and my husband is amazing and doesn't drink when I'm pregnant as a way to share in the pregnancy with me -- we call it "Team Baby") and some candles.
If your loved one is home, don't miss the opportunity to spend some quality time together. You'll miss it so desperately when he's gone (and in this life, it's not "if," it's "when").
If he's not physically around, consider some of these alternative dates to keep the passion burning from Iowa to Iraq:
- Send him a box from Sharemyheart.com. It's a unique Web site that creates love notes and gift boxes to share with your true love. They'll mail them anywhere in the United States and, I assume, to APO addresses.
- Send him a date in a box. If you are movie-goers, pack some popcorn and a DVD and a blankie that tells him you can't wait for cuddle-on-the-couch Cowboy western dates. If you are backpackers, send him some new gear with last month's deployment pay and promise him a good hike when you get home.
- Send him love letters for no reason.
- Send him "kisses" for every day he's gone. Print out 365 reasons you love your spouse. Attach each of those reasons to one Hershey's kiss and send them to him in an insulated (read: INSULATED! IRAQ IS HOT!) box. He'll enjoy a kiss from you every day he's gone.
Never miss an opportunity to let him know that he's loved. Even though he might hide it under that tough Army guy exterior, he'll feel treasured, blessed and appreciated, and those things will help keep your marriage not just alive, but thriving.
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Book Club News
Next Monday night on Army Wife Talk Radio during the book club segment, we will have author Sarah Smiley on to talk about her new book I'm Just Saying. I am so excited to be able to talk with her about the book and her experiences being a Navy wife. Finish up the book, and either email questions that you would like me to ask her at sarah@armywifetalkradio.com or call in during the segment next week and ask her yourself! I would love to have some calls.
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Thank you Ladies of the AWTR chat room
I would like to thank the ladies of AWTR chat room. You inspired me to go back to school. I had been thinking about going to school for Medical Transciption for a while. After listening to you ladies talk about school and homework I decided to go back to school. I'm excited, nervous, and a little scared. In November I will start my new acedemic challenge.
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Tuesday, October 14
Absentee Voting for Military Families
Soldiers and Family members deployed or otherwise assigned away from their voting residences, may find challenges in obtaining and filing absentee ballots. The Department of Defense (DoD), the military services, and state voting officials are being encouraged to do all they can to ensure those who are defending the nation are able to exercise their right to vote. DoD maintains a Federal Military Voting Assistance Program (FVAP) office which provides information and resources for military voters who wish to file an absentee ballot. The FVAP website offers state-by-state voting instructions and on-line registration and absentee ballot request forms. The FVAP also provides links to service voting information websites. For more information, visit www.fvap.gov
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New Household Goods System on Time - Pilot Delayed
The U.S. Transportation Command has postponed the pilot of a new system designed to fix the process that moves Servicemembers' household goods. The system roll out for 18 locations has been delayed until mid to late October. However, it will not affect the scheduled worldwide start date of 22 January 2009. The new, internet-based system will automatically assign the best-qualified moving company available to move Servicemembers and their Families. The program will also allow direct communication between Servicemembers and moving companies and online tracking of household goods. For more information, go to www.move.mil.
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Warrior Wives
For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty in God, for pulling down strong holds;
2Corinthians 10:4
Motto:
Lace up your boots, make up the hedge, and stand in the gap
Mission Statement:
To be an outreach organization in support of military wives; To provide the prayer, encouragement and fundamental resources for women that goes beyond the limitations of local, state and federal agencies; To unite women with others in their geographical area, regardless of branch or unit association, and to promote one another through all stages of military service.
The Warrior Wives’ mission will be to train military wives to become warrior wives, through prayer and perseverance. To encourage women to be of a sound mind, to love their husbands, to love their children, to be self controlled, pure in heart, to be guards of their homes, to build good relationships with others, and to take their place in the home by voluntarily carrying the burdens of their soldier.
2Corinthians 10:4
Motto:
Lace up your boots, make up the hedge, and stand in the gap
Mission Statement:
To be an outreach organization in support of military wives; To provide the prayer, encouragement and fundamental resources for women that goes beyond the limitations of local, state and federal agencies; To unite women with others in their geographical area, regardless of branch or unit association, and to promote one another through all stages of military service.
The Warrior Wives’ mission will be to train military wives to become warrior wives, through prayer and perseverance. To encourage women to be of a sound mind, to love their husbands, to love their children, to be self controlled, pure in heart, to be guards of their homes, to build good relationships with others, and to take their place in the home by voluntarily carrying the burdens of their soldier.
____________________________________________________________________
Okay ladies, here it is! We are finally on our way. I have mentioned before that we were in the process of starting a support group in our area because we are not near an installation. We are "Warrior Wives," and our first meeting is tomorrow in Springfield, Missouri (anyone in that area can email 1warriorwife@usawarriorwives.org for more info). We are targeting all branches of service and all duty statuses (active, reserves, guard, etc.). I am adding our mission statement so you can see what we are all about. Our website is still in the works, but know that in the future, this not-for-profit organization will be available for chapters across the U. S. to anyone who is willing to take on the task of starting the group. I'll bring out more info as we move along!
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Standard & Poor’s Affirms USAA’s Financial Strength
SAN ANTONIO – Standard & Poor’s has affirmed its Insurer Financial Strength Ratings of AAA (Extremely Strong, highest of 21 possible ratings) on United Services Automobile Association and its Property & Casualty Companies (USAA P&C Group) and Life Insurance Companies. USAA is one of a small, elite group of companies to retain the highest ratings from one of the world’s largest and well-respected rating agencies.
The affirmed Standard & Poor’s AAA rating is recognition of USAA P&C Group’s high capitalization and financial strength, which is built on profitability, steady recent increases in net worth (more than doubled since 2000), minimal debt, and access to strong liquidity sources.
“We work very hard to keep a strong balance sheet and to meet our financial commitments to our members, and we’re gratified that Standard & Poor’s continues to recognize us for our performance, especially in today’s rugged financial environment,” said Kristi Matus, USAA’s chief financial officer. “For 86 years, through good times and bad, we’ve never wavered from that commitment. We’re extremely proud of that track record and remain squarely focused on doing all that we can to facilitate the financial security of our members and their families.”
According to Standard & Poor’s, USAA P&C Group has a conservative investment strategy and better-than-industry-average liquidity and operating results; additionally, Standard and Poor’s noted that overall USAA has demonstrated an excellent enterprise risk management framework, which is embedded into its corporate culture.
Standard & Poor’s Affirms Financial Strength Ratings of USAA/Page 2
Standard and Poor’s also commented on USAA’s Life Insurance Companies, noting its industry-leading persistency, which reflects its superior customer service and military affinity, conservative investment portfolio, and strong earnings.
Matus pointed out that, despite the turbulence in the financial markets:
• USAA is profitable, and its net worth continues to grow.
• More than 305,000 new individuals have joined USAA this year, with a significant number joining in the past few months since membership eligibility was expanded.
• Nearly 1.6 million new products have been sold this year.
About USAA
USAA, a diversified financial services group of companies, is the leading provider of financial planning, insurance, investments, and banking products to members of the U.S. military and their families. Named by BusinessWeek as No. 1 Customer Service Champ in 2007 and 2008, USAA provides highly competitive financial products to its 6.7 million members. For more information about USAA, or to learn more about membership, visit usaa.com.
###
Please note, the presentation of financials and facts mentioned are subject to many external factors, such as market, environmental, and economic conditions, and may change at any time. USAA assumes no duty to update this information.
The affirmed Standard & Poor’s AAA rating is recognition of USAA P&C Group’s high capitalization and financial strength, which is built on profitability, steady recent increases in net worth (more than doubled since 2000), minimal debt, and access to strong liquidity sources.
“We work very hard to keep a strong balance sheet and to meet our financial commitments to our members, and we’re gratified that Standard & Poor’s continues to recognize us for our performance, especially in today’s rugged financial environment,” said Kristi Matus, USAA’s chief financial officer. “For 86 years, through good times and bad, we’ve never wavered from that commitment. We’re extremely proud of that track record and remain squarely focused on doing all that we can to facilitate the financial security of our members and their families.”
According to Standard & Poor’s, USAA P&C Group has a conservative investment strategy and better-than-industry-average liquidity and operating results; additionally, Standard and Poor’s noted that overall USAA has demonstrated an excellent enterprise risk management framework, which is embedded into its corporate culture.
Standard & Poor’s Affirms Financial Strength Ratings of USAA/Page 2
Standard and Poor’s also commented on USAA’s Life Insurance Companies, noting its industry-leading persistency, which reflects its superior customer service and military affinity, conservative investment portfolio, and strong earnings.
Matus pointed out that, despite the turbulence in the financial markets:
• USAA is profitable, and its net worth continues to grow.
• More than 305,000 new individuals have joined USAA this year, with a significant number joining in the past few months since membership eligibility was expanded.
• Nearly 1.6 million new products have been sold this year.
About USAA
USAA, a diversified financial services group of companies, is the leading provider of financial planning, insurance, investments, and banking products to members of the U.S. military and their families. Named by BusinessWeek as No. 1 Customer Service Champ in 2007 and 2008, USAA provides highly competitive financial products to its 6.7 million members. For more information about USAA, or to learn more about membership, visit usaa.com.
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Please note, the presentation of financials and facts mentioned are subject to many external factors, such as market, environmental, and economic conditions, and may change at any time. USAA assumes no duty to update this information.
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What, no questions?
My husband and I had a surprising weekend over Columbus Day. The surprise? We went away, we met new people - and nobody asked him anything at all about his service in the military.
I think most of us get used to a series of questions (or comments!) when someone we meet finds out that our spouse is in the military. We've all gotten the deployment question of "How do you do it?" or "I could never do that" (as if happily made the choice to send him off to be shot at for a year) or "Aren't you scared?" Likewise for when our soldiers meet new people. The most common question we have been getting the lsat year or so has been "Are you going back, or are you done?" As in, he's been to Iraq (twice, for a total of 23 months) and will he be going back. We always get a chuckle out of 'are you done?', as if he has a say-so in the matter, short of getting out! Well, this weekend, we got none of that, and it was a little odd. It made me realize how much I've become accustomed to feeling special or different when out in the civilian world.
We all complain sometimes and goodness knows the military lifestyle isn't the easiest. But it does set us apart from the general run of married couples, once you stray outside of military boundaries. And we've gotten really used to the questions. So it was a little weird when people would find out he was in the army - and not follow up at all. Even one older gentleman whose son had retired after 25 years in the Navy didn't ask. Or the waitress whose son became a Marine a year ago.
We were in New England, and I guess New Englanders do have a reputation for being private people. Maybe that was it. I don't know. What's funny is that we've become so accustomed to being almost celebrities, at times, when around people who have no experience with the military. I can see how people become addicted to the spotligh! :) We got used to the "How do you do it?" and the "What's it like?" and the "Do you have to go back?" (Though we didn't miss, "Have you killed anyone?") We got used to being different and special.
But now I'm curious - what are the most common questions you get when you meet new people out in the civilian world, either about your life or your husband's job?
I think most of us get used to a series of questions (or comments!) when someone we meet finds out that our spouse is in the military. We've all gotten the deployment question of "How do you do it?" or "I could never do that" (as if happily made the choice to send him off to be shot at for a year) or "Aren't you scared?" Likewise for when our soldiers meet new people. The most common question we have been getting the lsat year or so has been "Are you going back, or are you done?" As in, he's been to Iraq (twice, for a total of 23 months) and will he be going back. We always get a chuckle out of 'are you done?', as if he has a say-so in the matter, short of getting out! Well, this weekend, we got none of that, and it was a little odd. It made me realize how much I've become accustomed to feeling special or different when out in the civilian world.
We all complain sometimes and goodness knows the military lifestyle isn't the easiest. But it does set us apart from the general run of married couples, once you stray outside of military boundaries. And we've gotten really used to the questions. So it was a little weird when people would find out he was in the army - and not follow up at all. Even one older gentleman whose son had retired after 25 years in the Navy didn't ask. Or the waitress whose son became a Marine a year ago.
We were in New England, and I guess New Englanders do have a reputation for being private people. Maybe that was it. I don't know. What's funny is that we've become so accustomed to being almost celebrities, at times, when around people who have no experience with the military. I can see how people become addicted to the spotligh! :) We got used to the "How do you do it?" and the "What's it like?" and the "Do you have to go back?" (Though we didn't miss, "Have you killed anyone?") We got used to being different and special.
But now I'm curious - what are the most common questions you get when you meet new people out in the civilian world, either about your life or your husband's job?
Click here to read the rest of this post.
Monday, October 13
Time
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Why is that when the boys are away the time slowly creeps by like a snail but when they are home it is like a speed car on an indy track! Only a few more days and I'll be sending my prince back to the "litter box" and I am not happy about it. However, I am grateful for all the fun we are having and the great memories we are creating. I have learned SO much during this deployment, but especially during this R&R. My husband and I have GREAT communication. We really are fitting seamlessly into home life. Even when there are little differences (such as toilet seat up or down... LOL)it seems to be easily worked through. I find that we are much more gentle about the way we speak to one another, "Baby, I'd love it if you would consider helping with... blah, blah, blah", "It was so nice when you went the extra mile today and did....", "You have really made some fantastic improvements on...", "I have missed the way you do that chore, it's so helpful." This entire experience has strengthened us. Our Love, Our Marriage, and Us Individually. I would never wish him gone, but I would never trade this journey either. Still I wish I could stop that hourglass in my head from ticking. Each moment is so precious... gentle communication, heartfelt love, sweet touches, tender kisses... Every second a chance to grow together, and I don't want to miss one. So I'm off to snuggleville for the night with my soldier. One more night of warmth. Still yet one more night closer to homecoming. Right now everything in the world is right, perfect and peaceful. We are UNBREAKABLE!!!
Now I know that even as the time tries to race me... it can't break me.
(Thanks to www.joshwhitephoto.com)
Click here to read the rest of this post.
Buckeyes!!!! The recioe
Buckeyes - Yummy! Chocolate and Peanut Butter
Ingredients:
1 C Peanut Butter
1/4 C Butter
1 tsp vanilla
1 1/2 C Confectioner's Sugar
1/2 C Flour
1 c semi-sweet chocolate, melted
Line cookie sheets (2) with waxed paper.
Beat peanut butter, butter, & vanilla in a mixing bowl until creamy.
Gradually beat in sugar and flour until blended.
Form a ball using 1 rounded teaspon of mixture approximately 1 inch ball.
Place on cookie sheet & refrigerate until firm (1 hour).
When balls are firm melt chocolate (you can put the chocolate in a shallow dish and bake for 10-15 minutes at 225 degrees)
Spear balls with toothpick & dip into chocolate
Only cover 2/3 of ball so it looks like a real buckeye nut.
Refrigerate for 1/2 hour or until chocolate is firm.
Ingredients:
1 C Peanut Butter
1/4 C Butter
1 tsp vanilla
1 1/2 C Confectioner's Sugar
1/2 C Flour
1 c semi-sweet chocolate, melted
Line cookie sheets (2) with waxed paper.
Beat peanut butter, butter, & vanilla in a mixing bowl until creamy.
Gradually beat in sugar and flour until blended.
Form a ball using 1 rounded teaspon of mixture approximately 1 inch ball.
Place on cookie sheet & refrigerate until firm (1 hour).
When balls are firm melt chocolate (you can put the chocolate in a shallow dish and bake for 10-15 minutes at 225 degrees)
Spear balls with toothpick & dip into chocolate
Only cover 2/3 of ball so it looks like a real buckeye nut.
Refrigerate for 1/2 hour or until chocolate is firm.
Click here to read the rest of this post.
Field Problem: Working From Home
Shannon- in response to your blog post here is an archived Field Problem for you and those who are looking for work from home resouces to peruse. :) Thanks!!
Field Problem – Working From Home
I am on a mission and have so far been unsuccessful. I am looking for a valid, work from home (telecommuting) job that will allow me to spend time with my family and work from my home office. It doesn't have to be full time, even part time would be a start. I have been searching for resources, web sites, points of contact or referral information that will lead me to a possible job opportunity. So far, all I have found are the "stuff envelopes” and “Make $8000 a month" job listings.
Do you have any advice, information or guidance on where I or any other military spouse can go to find legitimate telecommuting employment?
Wendy; Ft Hood, TX; Army; 7 years
Dear Wendy:
We get this question a lot. If we had the magical answer, we suspect we would be millionaires! In Tara’s six years of working from home she has come across several very helpful websites and some great resources that we would love to share with you. First and foremost, working from home is harder than it seems but it is extremely rewarding. No matter what your choice for working from home might be, you need to realize a few things before you take the plunge.
Working at home requires discipline. All too often individuals want the money, but they do not want the work. Success takes work. Images of watching day-time TV or meeting the girls for lunch everyday must be set aside. Self-employed people must keep focused on setting up the business and sticking to deadlines. Remember, you have not said goodbye to the boss. The boss you have now is you, your customers, and your success.
There are several things you can do from home from telecommuting as a transcriptionist, resume writer, virtual assistant, or bookkeeper to working for a direct sales business. You might also decide to do develop your own concept or business.
The reality is that tomorrow you will not wake up and “sign up” to work from home. Your paycheck will not be instant. Legitimate employers with home based jobs hire the same way traditional employers do. There will be an application process and possibly an interview or test. Therefore, it is a good idea to have a resume written that outlines your skills and experiences. If you choose direct sales, your sign-up might be instant, but the money will not. You will have to work hard to plan parties and online sales. You will also have a lot of networking to do if you plan on making it a long term success. Plan your work and work your plan. Lastly, if you choose to develop your own business concept, your work will encompass hours of research and development, marketing and promotion, and business planning.
We are most certainly not trying to scare you about working from home. “It is the most rewarding thing I have ever done,” says Tara. “Military life takes us through many twists and turns and I can always take my business with me.”
As for your search, the Better Business Bureau offers tips (http://www.bbb.org/Alerts/article.asp?ID=436) on what to watch for so that you don’t get scammed. Look out for businesses that never offer you regular salaried employment, promise you huge profits and big part-time earnings, use personal testimonials but never identify the person so that you could check with them, require money for instructions or merchandise before telling you how the plan operates, assure you of guaranteed markets and a huge demand for your handiwork, tell you that no experience is necessary, or businesses that take your money and give you little or nothing in return except heartbreak and grief.
The best way we can think to answer your question is by providing you empowerment through resources. Below is a very extensive list of websites that you can peruse. Please take your time and look through every available opportunity. Research everything before you jump in so that you can make an educated decision on your career choice.
Online resources for job hunting:
http://www.nmfa.org/site/PageServer?pagename=home_spouseemployment
http://www.militaryspousejobsearch.org/msjs/app
http://www.milspouse.org
http://www.mscn.org
http://www.msccn.org
http://www.selfemployedweb.com/military-spouse-jobs.htm
Companies that hire “work from home”:
http://www.liveops.com
http://workaholics4hire.com/
http://www.workingsolutions.com/
Direct sales companies:
For a list of over 90 opportunities visit http://www.directsellingopportunities.com/search_opportunities
Online resources for networking and mentorship:
http://www.wahm.com
http://www.dswa.org/
http://www.wahmtalkradio.com
http://www.internetbasedmoms.com
http://www.advertisingmoms.com
http://www.telecommutingmoms.com/
http://www.hbwm.com/
http://www.mommysplace.net
http://www.directsalesmoms.com
http://www.moneymakingmommy.com
Selecting a type of at-home job and niche are just a start. You’ll want to visit another Web site like the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) site to help you “grow and succeed.” There you will find local resources, services and tools to make sure you enjoy working from home for many years to come. SBA’s most notable assistance to military families specifically is their Patriot Express Loan. You can apply for this loan to establish your new business idea or expand on a small business you may have already started. If you’re in the military community—National Guard, Spouse, Veteran—you are eligible to apply.
They applaud our military and with the loan will come many resources, counseling and training to ensure your success. You can get your great start here with their self-assessment. Good luck!
Have other questions? To submit your Field Problem™, e-mail FromTheField@FieldProblems.com. Please include your first name, location, branch of service, and years in/associated with the military. Questions may be edited for length and clarity. Field Problems™ reserves the right to read on the air and/or publish on its Web site or in any other form the emails and letters that we receive. By sending us a letter or email, you agree to these terms.
© 2007, Crooks and Henderson. Field Problems TM is a self-syndicated column by authors and military spouses Tara Crooks & Starlett “Star” Henderson. Receive this and other Field Problems: SOLVED c/o Crooks and Henderson right in your inbox by signing up at www.FieldProblems.com. Field Problems™ is just one solution to the challenges encountered by military families in Crooks and Henderson's kitbag. Ask about workshops or Field Exercises™ customized to solve your or your organization's Field Problems™, which are available for 2008.
Field Problem – Working From Home
I am on a mission and have so far been unsuccessful. I am looking for a valid, work from home (telecommuting) job that will allow me to spend time with my family and work from my home office. It doesn't have to be full time, even part time would be a start. I have been searching for resources, web sites, points of contact or referral information that will lead me to a possible job opportunity. So far, all I have found are the "stuff envelopes” and “Make $8000 a month" job listings.
Do you have any advice, information or guidance on where I or any other military spouse can go to find legitimate telecommuting employment?
Wendy; Ft Hood, TX; Army; 7 years
Dear Wendy:
We get this question a lot. If we had the magical answer, we suspect we would be millionaires! In Tara’s six years of working from home she has come across several very helpful websites and some great resources that we would love to share with you. First and foremost, working from home is harder than it seems but it is extremely rewarding. No matter what your choice for working from home might be, you need to realize a few things before you take the plunge.
Working at home requires discipline. All too often individuals want the money, but they do not want the work. Success takes work. Images of watching day-time TV or meeting the girls for lunch everyday must be set aside. Self-employed people must keep focused on setting up the business and sticking to deadlines. Remember, you have not said goodbye to the boss. The boss you have now is you, your customers, and your success.
There are several things you can do from home from telecommuting as a transcriptionist, resume writer, virtual assistant, or bookkeeper to working for a direct sales business. You might also decide to do develop your own concept or business.
The reality is that tomorrow you will not wake up and “sign up” to work from home. Your paycheck will not be instant. Legitimate employers with home based jobs hire the same way traditional employers do. There will be an application process and possibly an interview or test. Therefore, it is a good idea to have a resume written that outlines your skills and experiences. If you choose direct sales, your sign-up might be instant, but the money will not. You will have to work hard to plan parties and online sales. You will also have a lot of networking to do if you plan on making it a long term success. Plan your work and work your plan. Lastly, if you choose to develop your own business concept, your work will encompass hours of research and development, marketing and promotion, and business planning.
We are most certainly not trying to scare you about working from home. “It is the most rewarding thing I have ever done,” says Tara. “Military life takes us through many twists and turns and I can always take my business with me.”
As for your search, the Better Business Bureau offers tips (http://www.bbb.org/Alerts/article.asp?ID=436) on what to watch for so that you don’t get scammed. Look out for businesses that never offer you regular salaried employment, promise you huge profits and big part-time earnings, use personal testimonials but never identify the person so that you could check with them, require money for instructions or merchandise before telling you how the plan operates, assure you of guaranteed markets and a huge demand for your handiwork, tell you that no experience is necessary, or businesses that take your money and give you little or nothing in return except heartbreak and grief.
The best way we can think to answer your question is by providing you empowerment through resources. Below is a very extensive list of websites that you can peruse. Please take your time and look through every available opportunity. Research everything before you jump in so that you can make an educated decision on your career choice.
Online resources for job hunting:
http://www.nmfa.org/site/PageServer?pagename=home_spouseemployment
http://www.militaryspousejobsearch.org/msjs/app
http://www.milspouse.org
http://www.mscn.org
http://www.msccn.org
http://www.selfemployedweb.com/military-spouse-jobs.htm
Companies that hire “work from home”:
http://www.liveops.com
http://workaholics4hire.com/
http://www.workingsolutions.com/
Direct sales companies:
For a list of over 90 opportunities visit http://www.directsellingopportunities.com/search_opportunities
Online resources for networking and mentorship:
http://www.wahm.com
http://www.dswa.org/
http://www.wahmtalkradio.com
http://www.internetbasedmoms.com
http://www.advertisingmoms.com
http://www.telecommutingmoms.com/
http://www.hbwm.com/
http://www.mommysplace.net
http://www.directsalesmoms.com
http://www.moneymakingmommy.com
Selecting a type of at-home job and niche are just a start. You’ll want to visit another Web site like the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) site to help you “grow and succeed.” There you will find local resources, services and tools to make sure you enjoy working from home for many years to come. SBA’s most notable assistance to military families specifically is their Patriot Express Loan. You can apply for this loan to establish your new business idea or expand on a small business you may have already started. If you’re in the military community—National Guard, Spouse, Veteran—you are eligible to apply.
They applaud our military and with the loan will come many resources, counseling and training to ensure your success. You can get your great start here with their self-assessment. Good luck!
Have other questions? To submit your Field Problem™, e-mail FromTheField@FieldProblems.com. Please include your first name, location, branch of service, and years in/associated with the military. Questions may be edited for length and clarity. Field Problems™ reserves the right to read on the air and/or publish on its Web site or in any other form the emails and letters that we receive. By sending us a letter or email, you agree to these terms.
© 2007, Crooks and Henderson. Field Problems TM is a self-syndicated column by authors and military spouses Tara Crooks & Starlett “Star” Henderson. Receive this and other Field Problems: SOLVED c/o Crooks and Henderson right in your inbox by signing up at www.FieldProblems.com. Field Problems™ is just one solution to the challenges encountered by military families in Crooks and Henderson's kitbag. Ask about workshops or Field Exercises™ customized to solve your or your organization's Field Problems™, which are available for 2008.
Click here to read the rest of this post.
Saturday, October 11
Looking to work from Home?
I have come across many SAHM's who are wishing to have a job. But need it to fit around the kids schedule and if possible be able to work from her house. Oh ya and if it's not to much trouble, could it please not be a scam?
Well my friends I am working on something for you! There are many companies that are looking for moms just like you. Here are some legit places I have found that may help you in your job search.(the best part? Most of them you can move with you when you have to PCS)
www.westathome.com
www.workingsolutions.com
www.arise.com
www.cloud10corp.com
GE also has some work at home postions. If you look on their website for the career link you should be able to find it. DirecTV also has some work at home agents.
Use www.wahm.com to help in your job search.
I love staying home with the kids. Now that they are all in school I am toying with many ideas of how to spend a few free hours of just me time. I think it's wonderful that companies offer work at home options. I hate that they are hard to find when you do a basic search. It's like a needle in a hay stack if you google work from home. I hope that these sites will aide you if you are looking to work from home.
Well my friends I am working on something for you! There are many companies that are looking for moms just like you. Here are some legit places I have found that may help you in your job search.(the best part? Most of them you can move with you when you have to PCS)
www.westathome.com
www.workingsolutions.com
www.arise.com
www.cloud10corp.com
GE also has some work at home postions. If you look on their website for the career link you should be able to find it. DirecTV also has some work at home agents.
Use www.wahm.com to help in your job search.
I love staying home with the kids. Now that they are all in school I am toying with many ideas of how to spend a few free hours of just me time. I think it's wonderful that companies offer work at home options. I hate that they are hard to find when you do a basic search. It's like a needle in a hay stack if you google work from home. I hope that these sites will aide you if you are looking to work from home.
Click here to read the rest of this post.
Friday, October 10
Inspiration for Overcoming Obstacles
This military life is often filled with obstacles - TDY, PCS, deployment, the Army bureaucracy. Four years in, I feel so blessed that others have taught me how to view these "obstacles" as opportunities in disguise. Some inspirational quotes to keep you motivated during those massive Army road blocks:
"Obstacles are those frightful things you see when you take your eyes off your goal." ~ Henry Ford
"Courage and perseverance have a magical talisman, before which difficulties disappear and obstacles vanish into air." ~ John Quincy Adams
"Most of our obstacles would melt away if, instead of cowering before them, we should make up our minds to walk boldly through them." ~ Orison Swett Marden
"The harder the conflict, the more glorious the triumph. What we obtain too cheaply, we esteem too lightly; 'Tis dearness only that gives everything its value." ~ Thomas Paine
"Press on. Obstacles are seldom the same size tomorrow as they are today." ~ Robert Schuller
"The majority see the obstacles; the few see the objectives; history records the successes of the latter, while oblivion is the reward of the former." ~ Alfred Montapert
Be blessed in your obstacles! Because unless your path contains some, you are probably not really going anywhere.
"Obstacles are those frightful things you see when you take your eyes off your goal." ~ Henry Ford
"Courage and perseverance have a magical talisman, before which difficulties disappear and obstacles vanish into air." ~ John Quincy Adams
"Most of our obstacles would melt away if, instead of cowering before them, we should make up our minds to walk boldly through them." ~ Orison Swett Marden
"The harder the conflict, the more glorious the triumph. What we obtain too cheaply, we esteem too lightly; 'Tis dearness only that gives everything its value." ~ Thomas Paine
"Press on. Obstacles are seldom the same size tomorrow as they are today." ~ Robert Schuller
"The majority see the obstacles; the few see the objectives; history records the successes of the latter, while oblivion is the reward of the former." ~ Alfred Montapert
Be blessed in your obstacles! Because unless your path contains some, you are probably not really going anywhere.
Click here to read the rest of this post.
Field Problem: R&R ideas
I am expecting my fiancé back next month for his two weeks of R&R. I was interested in hearing topics on ideas for R&R and the best ways to spend time together without it being too overwhelming or underwhelming for that matter. Thank you.
Erika; California
Army Reserve Fiancée
Dear Erika:
We had babies for our husbands’ R&R leaves. Star’s husband returned the night before a scheduled caesarean for the delivery of daddy’s girl. And Tara’s husband returned shortly after the actual birth of their second daughter. Keep in mind, we are seasoned Army wives, and our husbands obviously had nine or more months to get used to the idea that they would be serving the needs of new mommies and babies and not hunting, vacationing in Disneyland, or plain kicking their feet up.
So, if you're not prepared to offer that much excitement....read further for some less “overwhelming” suggestions.
First, make sure your husband is involved in the plans and make no surprises. Ask him what his mission is: true R&R, travelling (maybe extensively), helping you around the house, and/or entertaining. Anything goes at this brainstorming stage. Discuss both your missions (read: needs) and work now toward compromises.
If he wants to entertain…
If it’s normal for him to fire up the grill and host a lot, you might find yourself with the urge to fight him for alone time. Try integrating his family and friends into one or two small celebrations towards the last half, allowing you two to enjoy each other first. The initial time of decompression also allows him to weigh how he feels upon return. It’s normal for soldiers to return thinking they want to see everyone and do everything or just the opposite, but after a few days, they get their “lives back” and can make those decisions easier.
If he wants to travel…
Do something low key, something you know he'll love. Often the new found bigger paychecks inspire people to do something they've never tried like taking a cruise or shopping for a motorcycle. This is better left for a time after your husband has returned permanently and has had a chance to get his feet wet and head back into the decision making process around the home. Budgets get tighter after a deployment, so make sure everyone is on board and saving for a mutually agreed upon, special re-deployment reward.
It’s not that you shouldn’t go somewhere big. Some people decide to meet at a choice destination or plan that Disneyland marathon. In fact, the military makes these big trips pretty enticing and easy with MWR programs where you can ski in Germany or surf in Hawaii at Armed Forces Recreation Centers . But, these things take planning, and balancing the needs of everyone is a must. If you’re normally adventurous go for it, but if it starts to feel too stressful—reevaluate.
Win-win ideas…
Some things with less planning and time commitment might be called for. Instead of going to Busch Gardens with free passes (http://www.herosalute.com/), Star’s family went to a nearby Six Flags. Their military appreciation day was free as well. Instead of going to an NFL game, call the local college to see if they will extend a special discount. Been there, done that too—and it was free. Or instead of going to Hawaii, maybe there’s a closer coastal destination offering R&R deals like where Tara’s family spent time on Hilton Head Island in South Carolina (http://www.operationrestandrelax.org). You never know about discounts unless you ask.
Finally, remember the only perfect R&R is probably in our dreams. We’ve spent R&Rs on the road to go visit sick relatives, attend funerals, move, and even had to forego R&R “for the needs of the military.” Focus on the real purpose or mission of R&R, which is to “refresh the Force.” In this day and age, that includes the family. So don’t argue or stress, just do what your whole family desires and what your family can afford without keeping up with everyone or trying to impress a soldier who already loves you.
Check out the sites below, together, enjoy the process, and have a restful,
relaxing leave.
The Military Family Network link for Military Deals, Installation Lodging, Travel and Space A links : http://www.emilitary.org/travel.html
Military Avenue supports the relocation, travel and lifestyle needs of the American Military Family. Visit their Reward Finder to find local military discounts and specials: http://www.militaryavenue.com/RewardFinder.aspx
All About US Military Leave, Travel and R&R:
http://usmilitary.about.com/od/leavetravel/Leave_Travel_and_RR.htm
Have other questions? To submit your Field Problem™, e-mail FromTheField@FieldProblems.com. Please include your first name, location, branch of service, and years in/associated with the military. Questions may be edited for length and clarity. Field Problems™ reserves the right to read on the air and/or publish on its Web site or in any other form the emails and letters that we receive. By sending us a letter or email, you agree to these terms.
© 2008, Crooks and Henderson. Field Problems TM is a self-syndicated column by authors and military spouses Tara Crooks & Starlett “Star” Henderson. Receive this and other Field Problems: SOLVED c/o Crooks and Henderson right in your inbox by signing up at www.FieldProblems.com. Field Problems™ is just one solution to the challenges encountered by military families in Crooks and Henderson's kitbag. Ask about workshops or Field Exercises™ customized to solve your or your organization's Field Problems™.
Erika; California
Army Reserve Fiancée
Dear Erika:
We had babies for our husbands’ R&R leaves. Star’s husband returned the night before a scheduled caesarean for the delivery of daddy’s girl. And Tara’s husband returned shortly after the actual birth of their second daughter. Keep in mind, we are seasoned Army wives, and our husbands obviously had nine or more months to get used to the idea that they would be serving the needs of new mommies and babies and not hunting, vacationing in Disneyland, or plain kicking their feet up.
So, if you're not prepared to offer that much excitement....read further for some less “overwhelming” suggestions.
First, make sure your husband is involved in the plans and make no surprises. Ask him what his mission is: true R&R, travelling (maybe extensively), helping you around the house, and/or entertaining. Anything goes at this brainstorming stage. Discuss both your missions (read: needs) and work now toward compromises.
If he wants to entertain…
If it’s normal for him to fire up the grill and host a lot, you might find yourself with the urge to fight him for alone time. Try integrating his family and friends into one or two small celebrations towards the last half, allowing you two to enjoy each other first. The initial time of decompression also allows him to weigh how he feels upon return. It’s normal for soldiers to return thinking they want to see everyone and do everything or just the opposite, but after a few days, they get their “lives back” and can make those decisions easier.
If he wants to travel…
Do something low key, something you know he'll love. Often the new found bigger paychecks inspire people to do something they've never tried like taking a cruise or shopping for a motorcycle. This is better left for a time after your husband has returned permanently and has had a chance to get his feet wet and head back into the decision making process around the home. Budgets get tighter after a deployment, so make sure everyone is on board and saving for a mutually agreed upon, special re-deployment reward.
It’s not that you shouldn’t go somewhere big. Some people decide to meet at a choice destination or plan that Disneyland marathon. In fact, the military makes these big trips pretty enticing and easy with MWR programs where you can ski in Germany or surf in Hawaii at Armed Forces Recreation Centers . But, these things take planning, and balancing the needs of everyone is a must. If you’re normally adventurous go for it, but if it starts to feel too stressful—reevaluate.
Win-win ideas…
Some things with less planning and time commitment might be called for. Instead of going to Busch Gardens with free passes (http://www.herosalute.com/), Star’s family went to a nearby Six Flags. Their military appreciation day was free as well. Instead of going to an NFL game, call the local college to see if they will extend a special discount. Been there, done that too—and it was free. Or instead of going to Hawaii, maybe there’s a closer coastal destination offering R&R deals like where Tara’s family spent time on Hilton Head Island in South Carolina (http://www.operationrestandrelax.org). You never know about discounts unless you ask.
Finally, remember the only perfect R&R is probably in our dreams. We’ve spent R&Rs on the road to go visit sick relatives, attend funerals, move, and even had to forego R&R “for the needs of the military.” Focus on the real purpose or mission of R&R, which is to “refresh the Force.” In this day and age, that includes the family. So don’t argue or stress, just do what your whole family desires and what your family can afford without keeping up with everyone or trying to impress a soldier who already loves you.
Check out the sites below, together, enjoy the process, and have a restful,
relaxing leave.
The Military Family Network link for Military Deals, Installation Lodging, Travel and Space A links : http://www.emilitary.org/travel.html
Military Avenue supports the relocation, travel and lifestyle needs of the American Military Family. Visit their Reward Finder to find local military discounts and specials: http://www.militaryavenue.com/RewardFinder.aspx
All About US Military Leave, Travel and R&R:
http://usmilitary.about.com/od/leavetravel/Leave_Travel_and_RR.htm
Have other questions? To submit your Field Problem™, e-mail FromTheField@FieldProblems.com. Please include your first name, location, branch of service, and years in/associated with the military. Questions may be edited for length and clarity. Field Problems™ reserves the right to read on the air and/or publish on its Web site or in any other form the emails and letters that we receive. By sending us a letter or email, you agree to these terms.
© 2008, Crooks and Henderson. Field Problems TM is a self-syndicated column by authors and military spouses Tara Crooks & Starlett “Star” Henderson. Receive this and other Field Problems: SOLVED c/o Crooks and Henderson right in your inbox by signing up at www.FieldProblems.com. Field Problems™ is just one solution to the challenges encountered by military families in Crooks and Henderson's kitbag. Ask about workshops or Field Exercises™ customized to solve your or your organization's Field Problems™.
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Tuesday, October 7
Our 1st R&R
HE'S HOME!!! This is just an R&R, but I'll TAKE IT! It's fantastic having him here to warm his side of the bed, and give me his famous smooches! Our reunion has been bliss. I was so worked up before he came home, my tummy in knots. I wasn't sure what to expect. This is our first deployment as many of you know. Literally within moments of that first off the plane kiss everything felt like HOME again. As if he never even left! We were laughing and talking of our past memories/the ones we would be making, and he was opening up about his "war" stories. I've loved getting to know all the characters he serves with by listening to his stories as he smiles thinking of his brothers back in the 'litter box'. We even left for a special trip to chicago the next morning and spent a couple of uninterupted days just to ourselves. He suprised me one night with a romantic carriage ride thru the city and some deep dish Chicago pizza, and a shopping spree at HERSHEY! I'm a blessed girl! I have posted a few photos to share :) I'll be sure to catch you all up on more as it comes, but for now I'm off.... to enjoy my sweet hero of a prince. I'm not sure why I had my self so worried about our reunion, because so far it has been everything a girl could wish for! God Bless AMERICA!!!
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WIN a Video Recorder from USAA
ENTER TO WIN a Video Recorder Camera from USAA!
Simply record a video telling us how USAA has helped you in the past, is helping you now, or how you plan to utilize USAA's services to help you in the future - ESPECIALLY when it's related to DEPLOYMENT. Send your video to tara@armywifetalkradio.com by November 1, 2008.
Winner will be selected from the entries and notified on our show November 3rd. USAA will provide the winner with a video recorder!
Odds of winning depend on the number of entries. ENTER TODAY!
Simply record a video telling us how USAA has helped you in the past, is helping you now, or how you plan to utilize USAA's services to help you in the future - ESPECIALLY when it's related to DEPLOYMENT. Send your video to tara@armywifetalkradio.com by November 1, 2008.
Winner will be selected from the entries and notified on our show November 3rd. USAA will provide the winner with a video recorder!
Odds of winning depend on the number of entries. ENTER TODAY!
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Monday, October 6
Caramel Brownies
So, my first nice thing I did for my new neighbor was share my friend Stephanie's Best Caramel Brownies. Stephanie used to make these for every get together we had. She said it was her 'secret' recipe. I believed her...until today...I found it on the internet. So now it's fair to share right? I'm not violating anyone's family secret!!??
Well my neighbors...well, they ate them all up in one sitting - and they are so rich that I can barely eat ONE (and I love me some brownies!!) so I wasn't sure how they did it. Jodi said they were the best brownies she'd ever had. So here you go...I thought I'd share with you too! Enjoy!!
CARAMEL BROWNIES
INGREDIENTS
1 bag of MILK MAID caramels
1/3 ish cup evaporated milk
1 (18.25 ounce) package German chocolate cake mix
1/3 ish cup evaporated milk
1/2 cup butter (1 stick), melted
1/2 cup chopped pecans
1 bag milk chocolate chips
DIRECTIONS
Peel caramels and place in pan. Stir in 1/3 cup evaporated milk. Heat and stir until all caramels are melted.
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) Grease& FLOUR a 9x13 inch pan.
In a large mixing bowl, mix together cake mix, 1/3 cup evaporated milk, melted butter, and chopped pecans. Place 1/2 of the batter in prepared baking pan.
Bake for 8 minutes or so.
Remove brownies from oven and sprinkle chocolate chips on top. Drizzle caramel sauce over chocolate chips. Use the remaining cake mixture to crumble on top or flatten and press - either way - you choose. :)
Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes. Remove and let cool. DO NOT try to eat these warm - they have to cool to be good.
Well my neighbors...well, they ate them all up in one sitting - and they are so rich that I can barely eat ONE (and I love me some brownies!!) so I wasn't sure how they did it. Jodi said they were the best brownies she'd ever had. So here you go...I thought I'd share with you too! Enjoy!!
CARAMEL BROWNIES
INGREDIENTS
1 bag of MILK MAID caramels
1/3 ish cup evaporated milk
1 (18.25 ounce) package German chocolate cake mix
1/3 ish cup evaporated milk
1/2 cup butter (1 stick), melted
1/2 cup chopped pecans
1 bag milk chocolate chips
DIRECTIONS
Peel caramels and place in pan. Stir in 1/3 cup evaporated milk. Heat and stir until all caramels are melted.
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) Grease& FLOUR a 9x13 inch pan.
In a large mixing bowl, mix together cake mix, 1/3 cup evaporated milk, melted butter, and chopped pecans. Place 1/2 of the batter in prepared baking pan.
Bake for 8 minutes or so.
Remove brownies from oven and sprinkle chocolate chips on top. Drizzle caramel sauce over chocolate chips. Use the remaining cake mixture to crumble on top or flatten and press - either way - you choose. :)
Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes. Remove and let cool. DO NOT try to eat these warm - they have to cool to be good.
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When did life get so crazy?
As I am typing this, I am sitting on my living room floor, surrounded by my text books, papers, binders galore. I have homework that needs to be done, but I don't want to do it. I have my recital hearing on Thursday and I still have music to memorize before then. I have wedding plans that are currently on the bottom of my priority list. I have so much to do and definitely not enough time.
So, when did I get so involved in life, that I've forgotten what it's like to sit and do nothing. Right now, all I want to do is sit and do nothing - except maybe cry.
It's been a little crazy and right now my life is taking a back seat to my recital. For those who don't know, this recital is a requirement for my degree. This is the equivalent of a thesis or a senior art show or a REALLY big final exam. Actually, the recital hearing is the worst part - that's where I actually get graded on my singing. I've got the recital hall booked and the date set and the invitations sent. I have my dress and am making preparations for my parents to come to town. Putting on a big recital like this is a lot of work - on top of all my school work.
In addition to the recital, we are in the process of looking for and buying a house. This is equally as stressful. ACK! I don't know how I am doing all of this or any of this at all. I think that when I am don typing here, I am going to run to the market and get some mozzerella sticks and chocolate covered pretzels. Due to my higher than normal levels of stress, my body has decided to do its own thing. So right now, all I want it chocolate and cheese.
I am just trying to push through school. Two more semesters after this one and I will be graduated. Once I make it through this semester, I think I will be ok. I have a professor who thinks his class is the ONLY thing I have to do. On top of school, I am trying to plan a wedding and run a household.
The kids are doing so wonderfully. This week, we celebrate my step-daughter's "belly birthday". Some of you are probably wondering, "What on earth is a belly birthday?" Four years ago, Abigail underwent a liver and small bowel transplant at 6 years old. She is now 10 and amazing. She has tested into the gifted class, is learning to play the trumpet, is taking piano lessons, and is learning to play tennis as well.
My step-son turned 13 last week. Here we go - the teenage years. Thankfully though, he's a terrific and extremely modest child. The girl who lives next door has a crush on him and he "knows it". Drew's mom was telling us that he had been in the house wihtout a shirt on and they called for urgent help. Andrew had to make sure to put on a shirt before going over there - I am thankful for this. He gets good grades and has a love of history like I've never seen in a 13 year old boy. He wants to be an archaeologist when he grows up.
Kids, school, fiance, recital, house buying, wedding - that's just the major stuff going on. Last week, I was up til 11 doing homework and was extremely stressed out. Once I finished, I shut off my laptop and closed it. Then, I just sat there and bawled. Girls, I know you all know how this feels - especially when your other half is deployed. I am SOOOOO thankful that my man is home now. I still just sit here and wonder when did life get this crazy.
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AWTR Video Contest!! FINALISTS - VIEW/VOTE Today!!
The time has come.... http://www.youtube.com/user/armywifetalkradio
Here are our four FINALISTS videos! Please choose your favorite and SPREAD IT LIKE WILDFIRE to anyone and everyone to view. VIEWS = VOTES!! So watch your favorite alot and spread it all over town!
Votes (Views) will be counted up until 11:59pm EST on Oct 19th. We will announce the winner on our show LIVE on Oct 20th!
Winner will receive a FABULOUS gift collection including a VIDEO RECORDER from USAA, an AWTR T-shirt, numerous military spouse books, HOOAH sparkle pin...and MORE!
Good luck!
SUBMISSION 1:
SUBMISSION 2:
SUBMISSION 3:
SUBMISSION 4:
Here are our four FINALISTS videos! Please choose your favorite and SPREAD IT LIKE WILDFIRE to anyone and everyone to view. VIEWS = VOTES!! So watch your favorite alot and spread it all over town!
Votes (Views) will be counted up until 11:59pm EST on Oct 19th. We will announce the winner on our show LIVE on Oct 20th!
Winner will receive a FABULOUS gift collection including a VIDEO RECORDER from USAA, an AWTR T-shirt, numerous military spouse books, HOOAH sparkle pin...and MORE!
Good luck!
SUBMISSION 1:
SUBMISSION 2:
SUBMISSION 3:
SUBMISSION 4:
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Book Club Assignments
We are reading two books currently, Mothers Need Time-Outs, Too by Susan Callahan, Anne Nolen, and Katrin Schumann and I'm Just Saying by Sarah Smiley. I talked about Mothers on last Monday's show, so if you would like, you can go to www.armywifetalkradio.com and listen to the archive. On October 20th we will have author Sarah Smiley on the book club segment, which I am really excited about. If anyone has questions they would like me to ask Sarah Smiley, please email me at sarah@armywifetalkradio.com. You can also call in during the show to ask questions.
There is still plenty of time to read I'm Just Saying. It is a quick read, she divided the book into three sections, the last one being military. For the show we will be focused mainly on the military section, so if you are super short on time be sure to read that section, but don't skip the other two sections, the book is great and you will enjoy a good laugh.
The assignment for Mothers Need Time-Outs Too has two parts. The first part is to go out and buy or scrounge in your closet for a spiral notebook. You can have a nicer bound diary if you would like, but a notebook will do the trick. The authors call this a Woman's Workbook and I think it is a great idea, even if you don't like to write or think you have nothing to say. The goal for this exercise is self-awareness and will help you get back in touch with yourself. It is so easy in the military lifestyle to put yourself last so often you start to forget who you are and what you need.
The first assignment comes straight from the book. The authors ask you to ask yourself several questions and write the answers down in your Woman's Workbook.
-What gives you goosebumps?
-What could you chatter about incessantly?
-What do you want to learn more about?
-What or who do you want to feel more connected to?
-What do you do that simply feels right?
The goal of these questions is to help you reconnect with yourself. You don't have to be a Mom or even be unhappy to benefit from some introspection.
Another great tool is the excerpt from Your Enchanted Life that you can download for free from Kathie Hightower and Holly Scherer's website www.militaryspousehelp.com click on articles, then life skills, and then click on ideal life exercises. The information in the excerpt will help you craft a description of your ideal life and then helps you translate that description into action.
There is still plenty of time to read I'm Just Saying. It is a quick read, she divided the book into three sections, the last one being military. For the show we will be focused mainly on the military section, so if you are super short on time be sure to read that section, but don't skip the other two sections, the book is great and you will enjoy a good laugh.
The assignment for Mothers Need Time-Outs Too has two parts. The first part is to go out and buy or scrounge in your closet for a spiral notebook. You can have a nicer bound diary if you would like, but a notebook will do the trick. The authors call this a Woman's Workbook and I think it is a great idea, even if you don't like to write or think you have nothing to say. The goal for this exercise is self-awareness and will help you get back in touch with yourself. It is so easy in the military lifestyle to put yourself last so often you start to forget who you are and what you need.
The first assignment comes straight from the book. The authors ask you to ask yourself several questions and write the answers down in your Woman's Workbook.
-What gives you goosebumps?
-What could you chatter about incessantly?
-What do you want to learn more about?
-What or who do you want to feel more connected to?
-What do you do that simply feels right?
The goal of these questions is to help you reconnect with yourself. You don't have to be a Mom or even be unhappy to benefit from some introspection.
Another great tool is the excerpt from Your Enchanted Life that you can download for free from Kathie Hightower and Holly Scherer's website www.militaryspousehelp.com click on articles, then life skills, and then click on ideal life exercises. The information in the excerpt will help you craft a description of your ideal life and then helps you translate that description into action.
Click here to read the rest of this post.
Friday, October 3
SAHM(stay at home moms)
I was reading a book recently and got to thinking. When did you become a social outcast for taking pride in staying home to raise your children and keep house? When did it become a sin to cook dinner and sit down to eat it as a family? I'll be the first to admit that I got caught up in the, I'm above cleaning my house. I have better things to do. Not that anyone else ever did it but I truly felt like the maid. Ok let's be honest most days I still do. But I now take pride in my work. It's not a sin to scrub the toilet and eat supper with your family. I believe God designed it that way. Everyone has a system that works for their family. My question to you is does it really work or are you simply getting through the day? I was getting through the day. Truth is my husband works really hard so I don't have to. I have always worked. Not fulltime and usually something that has flex hours so I can work around our schedule. I have decided to stop the insanity. I LOVE BEING HOME WITH MY KIDS. I LOVE COOKING DINNER AND EATING IT AS A FAMILY AT THE TABLE AND NOT IN THE CAR.I pledge that we SAHM's take back our honor in today's society. The next time someone asks you do you work? You can hold your head high and say why yes I do. I'm a gourmet cook, personal assistant, chauffeur, keeper of things lost, healer of all wounds, tutor, housekeeper and persoanl love slave to my husband. But in terms you can understand I am a STAY AT HOME MOM! If you say it really fast the look on the pesrons face is priceless because they are at a loss for works!
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Fear and Faith
I have a fear of planes. Not so much commercial planes, just military planes — the kind that dump my husband out their doors and hurl him to an insanely hard surface 1200 feet below with a parachute that, they tell me, will work. Call me crazy, but jumping out of a perfectly good airplane is just not my idea of intelligence. Or safety. And so when my husband participates in this important military activity every few months, I kind of panic — which is why, perhaps, Matt no longer informs me about his jumping status until the post-jump dinner.
Last time he jumped, my husband came home from work a few minutes late. When I asked him about his day, he told me it was great, except that his ankle hurt. I asked him why his ankle hurt, thinking perhaps that it was because of the 12-mile road march he’d executed earlier in the week or the five-mile run he’d just completed with his friend.
“Don’t be silly, baby,” he replied. “Road marches don’t bother me. It’s just that landing after 1200 feet of falling that gets to me.”
Right, because this is totally normal dinnertime conversation between your average American husband and wife. While my civilian friends’ husbands complain about neck cramping from staring at a computer all day long, my husband complains about ankle fractures from jumping out of a plane.
Of course, the only reason my current fear is plane jumping is because, right now, Matt’s not executing the more dangerous jobs of his profession — like jumping out of planes into cities to detain terrorists. When he’s deployed, the last thing I fear is plane jumping, because my mind is too busy worrying about the shots of enemy soldiers and the detonation of IEDs to even consider such trivia.
The truth is, no matter what we’re facing in the military, we, as spouses, are going to face fears. When they’re home, they’re routine plane jumps and Stryker field exercises. When they’re deployed, they’re sniper shots and roadside bombs. In this life, where our soldiers sacrifice so much of their physical safety to serve, protect and defend our country, fear is only a natural human response. But this week, I remembered that it doesn’t have to be my main response.
Wednesday morning, at a “Hope for the Home Front” class sponsored on post by the Fort Lewis Protestant Women of the Chapel, I was reminded that, when I let it, fear becomes an idol in my life. It becomes something I worship, something I bow down to, and when I default to fear over faith, I cripple myself and any ability I might have to serve my husband and my community in any kind of meaningful way.
In a life that requires strength above all trials, I can’t afford to amputate my limbs. I can’t afford to live a life of fear. And thank God I don’t have to. In this military life, where I can control, well, nothing, I can be confident that someone else is totally in control. With Him, faith, not fear, is my battle buddy.
And if there’s no other good news, at least there is a bright side to this plane jumping thing — the more Matt does it, the more I learn to give God control of it. And the more appreciative and patient my husband becomes on long cross-country flights back home with a screaming 2 year old and a bladder-challenged pregnant wife who don’t make him jump to exit the plane. That should count for something.
Last time he jumped, my husband came home from work a few minutes late. When I asked him about his day, he told me it was great, except that his ankle hurt. I asked him why his ankle hurt, thinking perhaps that it was because of the 12-mile road march he’d executed earlier in the week or the five-mile run he’d just completed with his friend.
“Don’t be silly, baby,” he replied. “Road marches don’t bother me. It’s just that landing after 1200 feet of falling that gets to me.”
Right, because this is totally normal dinnertime conversation between your average American husband and wife. While my civilian friends’ husbands complain about neck cramping from staring at a computer all day long, my husband complains about ankle fractures from jumping out of a plane.
Of course, the only reason my current fear is plane jumping is because, right now, Matt’s not executing the more dangerous jobs of his profession — like jumping out of planes into cities to detain terrorists. When he’s deployed, the last thing I fear is plane jumping, because my mind is too busy worrying about the shots of enemy soldiers and the detonation of IEDs to even consider such trivia.
The truth is, no matter what we’re facing in the military, we, as spouses, are going to face fears. When they’re home, they’re routine plane jumps and Stryker field exercises. When they’re deployed, they’re sniper shots and roadside bombs. In this life, where our soldiers sacrifice so much of their physical safety to serve, protect and defend our country, fear is only a natural human response. But this week, I remembered that it doesn’t have to be my main response.
Wednesday morning, at a “Hope for the Home Front” class sponsored on post by the Fort Lewis Protestant Women of the Chapel, I was reminded that, when I let it, fear becomes an idol in my life. It becomes something I worship, something I bow down to, and when I default to fear over faith, I cripple myself and any ability I might have to serve my husband and my community in any kind of meaningful way.
In a life that requires strength above all trials, I can’t afford to amputate my limbs. I can’t afford to live a life of fear. And thank God I don’t have to. In this military life, where I can control, well, nothing, I can be confident that someone else is totally in control. With Him, faith, not fear, is my battle buddy.
And if there’s no other good news, at least there is a bright side to this plane jumping thing — the more Matt does it, the more I learn to give God control of it. And the more appreciative and patient my husband becomes on long cross-country flights back home with a screaming 2 year old and a bladder-challenged pregnant wife who don’t make him jump to exit the plane. That should count for something.
Fort Lewis Army Wife Michelle Cuthrell is the founder and CEO of
Behind the Blue-Star Banner Services (www.behindthebluestarbanner.com),
an organization designed to serve the families of America’s military heroes, and author of
Behind the Blue-Star Banner: A Memoir from the Home Front.
Behind the Blue-Star Banner Services (www.behindthebluestarbanner.com),
an organization designed to serve the families of America’s military heroes, and author of
Behind the Blue-Star Banner: A Memoir from the Home Front.
(Taken from today's Northwest Guardian)
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MFF
Anyone ever hear of meetup.com?
I didn't until Ruth, a podcast listener, recently emailed
to say she was starting an Olympia, WA area military
wives' book club. Inspired by Sarah's AWTR book club mind you.
I thought--meetup.com--what a great idea for
these spouses who aren't near a base and don't have
FRGs for whatever reason. So I did a search.
There are 46 people within an hours drive of my home, but
that's not the best example, because I am an hour away from post.
So, I continued the search. The areas below are where we have listeners...
bigger cities like NY, NY (Hi Kathleen!) and Houston, TX. But, also
cities where we only have 1 listener like Portage, Indiana and
Des Moines Iowa. So, do a search, it's very easy. There may be
a group formed, or you may feel led to unify the waiting individuals
into a Military Friends and Family group you can call home.
(Just don't forget to tell them about AWTR, FP, and LAS! :))
Here's the link and my other searches below!
http://mff.meetup.com (MFF! Military Friends Forever or it should be!)
New York, New York:
http://mff.meetup.com/cities/us/ny/new_york/groups/
or 44 more waiting...
Houston, Texas
http://mff.meetup.com/cities/us/tx/houston/groups/
or 26 waiting...
Portage, Indiana
http://mff.meetup.com/cities/us/in/portage/groups/
11 people waiting for a Portage group...
Des Moines, Iowa
http://mff.meetup.com/cities/us/ia/des_moines/groups/
3 waiting patiently in Des Moines...
I didn't until Ruth, a podcast listener, recently emailed
to say she was starting an Olympia, WA area military
wives' book club. Inspired by Sarah's AWTR book club mind you.
I thought--meetup.com--what a great idea for
these spouses who aren't near a base and don't have
FRGs for whatever reason. So I did a search.
There are 46 people within an hours drive of my home, but
that's not the best example, because I am an hour away from post.
So, I continued the search. The areas below are where we have listeners...
bigger cities like NY, NY (Hi Kathleen!) and Houston, TX. But, also
cities where we only have 1 listener like Portage, Indiana and
Des Moines Iowa. So, do a search, it's very easy. There may be
a group formed, or you may feel led to unify the waiting individuals
into a Military Friends and Family group you can call home.
(Just don't forget to tell them about AWTR, FP, and LAS! :))
Here's the link and my other searches below!
http://mff.meetup.com (MFF! Military Friends Forever or it should be!)
New York, New York:
http://mff.meetup.com/cities/us/ny/new_york/groups/
or 44 more waiting...
Houston, Texas
http://mff.meetup.com/cities/us/tx/houston/groups/
or 26 waiting...
Portage, Indiana
http://mff.meetup.com/cities/us/in/portage/groups/
11 people waiting for a Portage group...
Des Moines, Iowa
http://mff.meetup.com/cities/us/ia/des_moines/groups/
3 waiting patiently in Des Moines...
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Thursday, October 2
Ha, Ha, Ha, Of Course They Did!
Guess what? About a week ago (when we moved in) they started laying incoming water plumbing on our street (tearing it up all the way down). They got to the end of the street right in front of our house yesterday - next thing I know after spending the day hearing the "beep, beep, beep" of backing up dump trucks, there is a man at my door. He says "Hello, I'm ____ from _____ and we're laying plumbing for the new incoming water lines. We're sorry but you're going to need to turn off your air conditioner because we just busted the water line to your geo-thermal." "My what??" "Your air conditioner is geo-thermal and you're going to need to shut it off". YES, they broke our air conditioner.
I don't quite understand it but I'm not asking too many questions at this point. Just fix it. We spent the day on the phone with housing who proceeds to tell me after I've been home ALL DAY LONG that "we can assure you someone is working on it and has been all day." I can assure them that there was no one in my house or at the neighbors (whose was busted too). We laughed. They spent until 2pm figuring out their head from their butt and then at 3pm a contractor showed up and said ..."I'm sorry ma'am we had to spend the morning deciding whose fault it was that it was busted so we'd know who was going to pay us." Ahhh...I see. Of course you did. "Now we're going to not be able to fix it until tomorrow because the part that we need is on order and is coming from Oklahoma City." Of course it is. "We'll be here first thing in the morning" I'm not holding my breath. "Just open your windows it's nice outside and you should be ok."
Just one problem. Our windows are PAINTED shut.
Of course.....
I don't quite understand it but I'm not asking too many questions at this point. Just fix it. We spent the day on the phone with housing who proceeds to tell me after I've been home ALL DAY LONG that "we can assure you someone is working on it and has been all day." I can assure them that there was no one in my house or at the neighbors (whose was busted too). We laughed. They spent until 2pm figuring out their head from their butt and then at 3pm a contractor showed up and said ..."I'm sorry ma'am we had to spend the morning deciding whose fault it was that it was busted so we'd know who was going to pay us." Ahhh...I see. Of course you did. "Now we're going to not be able to fix it until tomorrow because the part that we need is on order and is coming from Oklahoma City." Of course it is. "We'll be here first thing in the morning" I'm not holding my breath. "Just open your windows it's nice outside and you should be ok."
Just one problem. Our windows are PAINTED shut.
Of course.....
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It is here at last.....R&R
It is here at last R&R....I will be in his arms sooner than later!!!!!! I will let you all know details later....
:-)
God Bless...
Tara JW
:-)
God Bless...
Tara JW
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Case Lot Sale AAR
Recently our Commissary had its Case Lot sale. For those of you who are unfamiliar with this, it is bulk shopping at the Commissary. Twice a year you can buy cases of paper towels, garbage bags, and Hot Pockets. I haven't been in a year or so because sometimes the prices do not make the hassle worth it. This year, I decided that I would brave it, because I am 8 and 1/2 months pregnant, I mean sure why not.
Fort Belvoir is a pretty big post and I must say that this is the biggest case lot sale I have ever seen. I got in line at 0845, about 15 minutes before it opened. When I had to walk what seemed like a half a mile to get in line, I should have clued in that this was not going to be a quick trip to get garbage bags. Fortunately there was a really sweet 19 year old brand new Coast Guard wife who kept me company, and helped me pick up the things that my almost two year old was throwing.
At 1030 I started to panic because I needed to leave at 1145 to pick up my three year old from school and I was trapped in the line not even half way through the maze of cat litter, Ramen noodles, and Coca Cola. Most of the other case lot sales I have been to have been inside the Commissary. This sale had a designated tent and very clear rules that you stayed in line from beginning to check out. At 1130 after someone told us that over half of the registers were not working, I decided that I had to throw in the towel and leave. After almost three hours standing in line with swollen ankles, I had to walk away and leave my cases of chicken broth, garbage bags, juice boxes, paper towels, and cheap bagels. I cannot tell you how frustrated I was. Particularly because I wasted my entire morning and walked away without a single bargain.
Thirty minutes later I got a phone call from one of the other spouses in my husband's unit. The sweet angel bought my cart of bargains and I met her in the parking lot for the hand off, so happy ending. You've got to love your Army sisters, what a nice thing to do.
That was the most insane case lot sale I have ever been to. It is not normally so crazy and you really can get some great deals. I now have 12 boxes of garbage bags and 6 cases of juice boxes, plus enough paper towels to get me through at least a month of kid spills, but I think I will pass next year unless we have pcs'ed again.
AAR=After Action Report
Fort Belvoir is a pretty big post and I must say that this is the biggest case lot sale I have ever seen. I got in line at 0845, about 15 minutes before it opened. When I had to walk what seemed like a half a mile to get in line, I should have clued in that this was not going to be a quick trip to get garbage bags. Fortunately there was a really sweet 19 year old brand new Coast Guard wife who kept me company, and helped me pick up the things that my almost two year old was throwing.
At 1030 I started to panic because I needed to leave at 1145 to pick up my three year old from school and I was trapped in the line not even half way through the maze of cat litter, Ramen noodles, and Coca Cola. Most of the other case lot sales I have been to have been inside the Commissary. This sale had a designated tent and very clear rules that you stayed in line from beginning to check out. At 1130 after someone told us that over half of the registers were not working, I decided that I had to throw in the towel and leave. After almost three hours standing in line with swollen ankles, I had to walk away and leave my cases of chicken broth, garbage bags, juice boxes, paper towels, and cheap bagels. I cannot tell you how frustrated I was. Particularly because I wasted my entire morning and walked away without a single bargain.
Thirty minutes later I got a phone call from one of the other spouses in my husband's unit. The sweet angel bought my cart of bargains and I met her in the parking lot for the hand off, so happy ending. You've got to love your Army sisters, what a nice thing to do.
That was the most insane case lot sale I have ever been to. It is not normally so crazy and you really can get some great deals. I now have 12 boxes of garbage bags and 6 cases of juice boxes, plus enough paper towels to get me through at least a month of kid spills, but I think I will pass next year unless we have pcs'ed again.
AAR=After Action Report
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Wednesday, October 1
Dear Deployment Project
I wanted to share this project with you all. It looks very interesting. All the letters they are compiling will be turned into a book they hope in your handwriting. I think that is such a neat concept. They would like all the letters by December 1, 2008.
As military spouses, we often have one of the hardest jobs out there… We wait, we support, we worry, we pray, and without fail … It seems that everything that could go wrong does so when our spouse is away, or that while they are away, it is when we need them the most. Sometimes when they call we find ourselves immediately complaining about our situation and telling them everything that is hard about them being gone and how we hate what we are going through...
Once we heard someone offer a bit of advice recommending we write a letter to the deployment, instead of complaining to our husband or wife, letting the deployment know what it is putting us through! Now is your chance to be heard and let others see the true emotion that is felt behind the headlines they read! We would like to offer each of you the opportunity to be included in our upcoming book, Dear Deployment.
By now you may be wondering who we are. Our names are Sarah and Lauren and we are best friends of 7 years, military wives, and deployment survivors like many of you. After going through our first deployment we finally understood the crazy emotions and stress felt by spouses and the need for a way to cope with it and to know that others feel the same way we do. That is what inspired us to compile your letters so that other spouses can know they, too, are not alone in their feelings and so others can begin to understand what deployments are like for those left to wait." Quote from their myspace page
If you would like an opportunity to be part of this, please HAND WRITE your letter, and also attach the signed release (second page of this document). Please mail your letter to: Dear Deployment, PO Box 4733, Oceanside, CA, 92052. We are so excited to hear from you! If you have any questions, please feel free to email us at deardeployment@gmail.com.
Check us out on MySpace! http://www.myspace.com/deardeployment
Permission to Reprint
I, ________________________, grant permission to reproduce my letter entitled Dear Deployment in its entirety to Sarah E. Smith and Lauren N. Welsh for their upcoming book also entitled Dear Deployment…. I grant non-exclusive worldwide rights, in all languages, for this edition, and for any subsequent editions in the same format, as well as the right to edit or use only portions of my letter that the authors/editors/publisher so choose. If I choose to include my name at the conclusion of my letter, I will be acknowledged in the publication by the name provided at the conclusion of my letter.In signing, I warrant that I am the sole owner of the rights granted and that my material does not infringe upon the copyright or other rights of anyone. If I do not control these rights in their entirety, I will not include the copyrighted material in my submitted letter.PERMISSION GRANTED AS STATED ABOVE:___________________________________Signature___________________________________Printed name___________________________________Date
__________________
As military spouses, we often have one of the hardest jobs out there… We wait, we support, we worry, we pray, and without fail … It seems that everything that could go wrong does so when our spouse is away, or that while they are away, it is when we need them the most. Sometimes when they call we find ourselves immediately complaining about our situation and telling them everything that is hard about them being gone and how we hate what we are going through...
Once we heard someone offer a bit of advice recommending we write a letter to the deployment, instead of complaining to our husband or wife, letting the deployment know what it is putting us through! Now is your chance to be heard and let others see the true emotion that is felt behind the headlines they read! We would like to offer each of you the opportunity to be included in our upcoming book, Dear Deployment.
By now you may be wondering who we are. Our names are Sarah and Lauren and we are best friends of 7 years, military wives, and deployment survivors like many of you. After going through our first deployment we finally understood the crazy emotions and stress felt by spouses and the need for a way to cope with it and to know that others feel the same way we do. That is what inspired us to compile your letters so that other spouses can know they, too, are not alone in their feelings and so others can begin to understand what deployments are like for those left to wait." Quote from their myspace page
If you would like an opportunity to be part of this, please HAND WRITE your letter, and also attach the signed release (second page of this document). Please mail your letter to: Dear Deployment, PO Box 4733, Oceanside, CA, 92052. We are so excited to hear from you! If you have any questions, please feel free to email us at deardeployment@gmail.com.
Check us out on MySpace! http://www.myspace.com/deardeployment
Permission to Reprint
I, ________________________, grant permission to reproduce my letter entitled Dear Deployment in its entirety to Sarah E. Smith and Lauren N. Welsh for their upcoming book also entitled Dear Deployment…. I grant non-exclusive worldwide rights, in all languages, for this edition, and for any subsequent editions in the same format, as well as the right to edit or use only portions of my letter that the authors/editors/publisher so choose. If I choose to include my name at the conclusion of my letter, I will be acknowledged in the publication by the name provided at the conclusion of my letter.In signing, I warrant that I am the sole owner of the rights granted and that my material does not infringe upon the copyright or other rights of anyone. If I do not control these rights in their entirety, I will not include the copyrighted material in my submitted letter.PERMISSION GRANTED AS STATED ABOVE:___________________________________Signature___________________________________Printed name___________________________________Date
__________________
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Field Problem: OPSEC
"No-no's lead foes to our joes!"
Katie, Army girlfriend, Denver, CO
Thanks Katie!
Our OPSEC Field Problem follows:
Are my e-mails and/or letters to my husband being read? Seriously, I’m not trying to sound paranoid, but someone from his ship told me they were. I’d just like to know, if this is common practice, why.
Shannon; Naval Base Kitsap (WA);
Active Navy spouse; 20 months
Dear Shannon:
Two words come to mind. No doubt many have heard them: OP SEC (really Operational Security or OPSEC).
Operational Security might be the reason behind why e-mails or letters to your husband are read, if they even are. The logistics behind reading every communication to and from port or ship is quite daunting though. Most likely there is a policy that requires “spot-checking” what is going back and forth.
If you write letters about soccer practice and broken dishwashers, you may wonder why the Navy or any military unit would even care.
Here’s why
Operational Security is the practice of safe-guarding any information that is relevant to movement, unit strength, and unit capabilities with technology, ammunition, or skill sets. Especially at the outset of this war, a renewed campaign to educate service members and their families about what information to safeguard and how to do it was in full force. It is not that the practice of OPSEC is new, but the means by which we communicate is growing from snail-mail and secure phones to online family scrapbooks, to email, to VoIP. This puts a lot of information at risk of being viewed or gleaned by technologically smart foreign entities who may wish to harm the U.S.’s interests, service members, and/or her citizens.
Your email and letters may be mundane, but spot-checking everyone’s to determine possible vulnerabilities with regards to security measures and culpable content is just a commander exercising good sense. Additionally, a good commander knows also that there are a few other arenas which deserve a closer look, including online social networks, web logs, and message boards or discussion forums.
A letter is usually straight-forward and personal. “Here is what we did today. We thought of you often,” Love, the Family. There’s no need to exchange questions about how many sailors are “on board” or which equipment is “down” for maintenance. In general, you are writing for private matters and the information being shared is not detrimental to the safety of the mission or crew.
Online discussions are another matter. Oftentimes individuals get involved in documenting a particular experience or debating policy. There is little to be done about who reads what and who spouts what, so these avenues tend toward making the military more vulnerable if not monitored well. Because of this, OPSEC procedures and policy are constantly being reviewed and improved. Many liken the oversight to censorship, but we feel it is more about keeping service members and military interests safe.
Here’s what
In fact, the most useful part of good OPSEC training is helping everyone (including family members) “get past” the idea that monitoring in some cases is oppression or censorship.
For example, the military does not tell you that you can’t express an opinion or document a homecoming; it just asks that you be careful how and how much. Too much or too specific info like your soldier’s remote location, your specific unit designation, or any mission details could be just what someone is waiting to hear in order to do sabotage or something much nastier.
Even a small part of information published in a vulnerable source (i.e. a blog) can be harmful. We must keep in mind that the enemy casts a wide net. A small part of information from one family, another from a soldier, and still another from main stream media can comprise an accurate picture of future operations enough for planning a fatal attack.
Here’s how
Request a family class on Operational Security from a military subject matter expert. Good training will help you understand why OPSEC is important, how the family plays a role, and what to do if you observe suspicious activity.
Search each of your favorite military-related, online networks for their OPSEC guidelines. If they don’t have some, request that they post some. If they are unclear, ask for clarification.
Report all OPSEC violations. It’s better to err on the side of caution than pave the way for the unspeakable.
Don’t ask questions of your spouse that may lead them to be conflicted between choosing safety and securing your sanity. There are truly things that families do not have a “need to know.”
Develop a family policy which addresses what can be shared with friends, neighbors and co-workers and how and what will be communicated between home and the deployed location.
Confirm all gossip with a military or designated official. Use an official chain to distribute approved, sanitized messages.
Good question Shannon! We know the idea of being “reviewed” is an uncomfortable one, but most likely it doesn’t happen often. And, if you practice the guidelines above, there should be nothing to worry about.
Have other questions? To submit your Field Problem™, e-mail FromTheField@FieldProblems.com. Please include your first name, location, branch of service, and years in/associated with the military. Questions may be edited for length and clarity. Field Problems™ reserves the right to read on the air and/or publish on its Web site or in any other form the emails and letters that we receive. By sending us a letter or email, you agree to these terms.
© 2008, Crooks and Henderson. Field Problems TM is a self-syndicated column by authors and military spouses Tara Crooks & Starlett “Star” Henderson. Receive this and other Field Problems: SOLVED c/o Crooks and Henderson right in your inbox by signing up at www.FieldProblems.com. Field Problems™ is just one solution to the challenges encountered by military families in Crooks and Henderson's kitbag. Ask about workshops or Field Exercises™ customized to solve your or your organization's Field Problems™.
Katie, Army girlfriend, Denver, CO
Thanks Katie!
Our OPSEC Field Problem follows:
Are my e-mails and/or letters to my husband being read? Seriously, I’m not trying to sound paranoid, but someone from his ship told me they were. I’d just like to know, if this is common practice, why.
Shannon; Naval Base Kitsap (WA);
Active Navy spouse; 20 months
Dear Shannon:
Two words come to mind. No doubt many have heard them: OP SEC (really Operational Security or OPSEC).
Operational Security might be the reason behind why e-mails or letters to your husband are read, if they even are. The logistics behind reading every communication to and from port or ship is quite daunting though. Most likely there is a policy that requires “spot-checking” what is going back and forth.
If you write letters about soccer practice and broken dishwashers, you may wonder why the Navy or any military unit would even care.
Here’s why
Operational Security is the practice of safe-guarding any information that is relevant to movement, unit strength, and unit capabilities with technology, ammunition, or skill sets. Especially at the outset of this war, a renewed campaign to educate service members and their families about what information to safeguard and how to do it was in full force. It is not that the practice of OPSEC is new, but the means by which we communicate is growing from snail-mail and secure phones to online family scrapbooks, to email, to VoIP. This puts a lot of information at risk of being viewed or gleaned by technologically smart foreign entities who may wish to harm the U.S.’s interests, service members, and/or her citizens.
Your email and letters may be mundane, but spot-checking everyone’s to determine possible vulnerabilities with regards to security measures and culpable content is just a commander exercising good sense. Additionally, a good commander knows also that there are a few other arenas which deserve a closer look, including online social networks, web logs, and message boards or discussion forums.
A letter is usually straight-forward and personal. “Here is what we did today. We thought of you often,” Love, the Family. There’s no need to exchange questions about how many sailors are “on board” or which equipment is “down” for maintenance. In general, you are writing for private matters and the information being shared is not detrimental to the safety of the mission or crew.
Online discussions are another matter. Oftentimes individuals get involved in documenting a particular experience or debating policy. There is little to be done about who reads what and who spouts what, so these avenues tend toward making the military more vulnerable if not monitored well. Because of this, OPSEC procedures and policy are constantly being reviewed and improved. Many liken the oversight to censorship, but we feel it is more about keeping service members and military interests safe.
Here’s what
In fact, the most useful part of good OPSEC training is helping everyone (including family members) “get past” the idea that monitoring in some cases is oppression or censorship.
For example, the military does not tell you that you can’t express an opinion or document a homecoming; it just asks that you be careful how and how much. Too much or too specific info like your soldier’s remote location, your specific unit designation, or any mission details could be just what someone is waiting to hear in order to do sabotage or something much nastier.
Even a small part of information published in a vulnerable source (i.e. a blog) can be harmful. We must keep in mind that the enemy casts a wide net. A small part of information from one family, another from a soldier, and still another from main stream media can comprise an accurate picture of future operations enough for planning a fatal attack.
Here’s how
Request a family class on Operational Security from a military subject matter expert. Good training will help you understand why OPSEC is important, how the family plays a role, and what to do if you observe suspicious activity.
Search each of your favorite military-related, online networks for their OPSEC guidelines. If they don’t have some, request that they post some. If they are unclear, ask for clarification.
Report all OPSEC violations. It’s better to err on the side of caution than pave the way for the unspeakable.
Don’t ask questions of your spouse that may lead them to be conflicted between choosing safety and securing your sanity. There are truly things that families do not have a “need to know.”
Develop a family policy which addresses what can be shared with friends, neighbors and co-workers and how and what will be communicated between home and the deployed location.
Confirm all gossip with a military or designated official. Use an official chain to distribute approved, sanitized messages.
Good question Shannon! We know the idea of being “reviewed” is an uncomfortable one, but most likely it doesn’t happen often. And, if you practice the guidelines above, there should be nothing to worry about.
Have other questions? To submit your Field Problem™, e-mail FromTheField@FieldProblems.com. Please include your first name, location, branch of service, and years in/associated with the military. Questions may be edited for length and clarity. Field Problems™ reserves the right to read on the air and/or publish on its Web site or in any other form the emails and letters that we receive. By sending us a letter or email, you agree to these terms.
© 2008, Crooks and Henderson. Field Problems TM is a self-syndicated column by authors and military spouses Tara Crooks & Starlett “Star” Henderson. Receive this and other Field Problems: SOLVED c/o Crooks and Henderson right in your inbox by signing up at www.FieldProblems.com. Field Problems™ is just one solution to the challenges encountered by military families in Crooks and Henderson's kitbag. Ask about workshops or Field Exercises™ customized to solve your or your organization's Field Problems™.
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