Field Problem – I-rish You A Happy...

Dear Tara & Star,
Your Valentines care package ideas rock! I had so much fun putting together a special box for my husband; I know he will have just as much fun opening it also. I am trying to start a box for St. Patrick’s Day, but I’m not getting very far. He likes to have some cash in his pocket, so I wadded up a bunch of $1 bills and am going to throw them all in the box for him. Can you help me with some other ideas? Thanks in advance!

Netta; Fort Campbell, KY;
Active Duty Army; 2 years

Dear Netta:
Absolutely! We love thinking up new creative things for our soldier’s packages. The St. Patrick's Day custom came to America in 1737. That was the first year St. Patrick's Day was publicly celebrated in this country, in Boston.
Today, people celebrate the day with parades, wearing of the green, and drinking beer. While all of those things can’t take place “over there” for your soldier, you can create him/her a wonderful holiday care package to make the “first green of spring” a little greener for them!

Personal Touches
• List of why you’re “lucky” to have them
• Pictures of past St Patrick’s day celebrations
• Green t-shirt or green “shower shoes”
• St Patty’s day trivia (download some off Google)
• Shamrock & Leprechaun drawings by your children
• CD of Irish pub songs
• A “Blarney Stone – Kiss for good luck” (a garden rock painted green)

Decorations
• Shamrock decorations & Leprechaun hats
• Green Face Paint
• Shamrock window clings
• Shamrock Confetti
• Green Bead Necklaces
• Green Balloons
• Green Christmas lights or shamrock shaped lights
• “Kiss Me I’m Irish” button

Food
• Green Gatorade
• Green Apple Jolly Ranchers
• Green M&Ms
• Decorated Shamrock Cookies
• Non-Alcoholic Beer
• Shamrock shaped green Rice Krispie treats
• Gold Coin wrapped chocolate
• Irish Soda Bread
• Canned Corn Beef
• Instant Irish Coffee
• Potato Soup
• Skittles (“Taste the Rainbow”)
• Lucky Charms
• Green gum
• Guacamole or Sour Cream & Onion flavored chips
• Andes Mints (with the green center) or Junior Mints
• Individually wrapped microwaveable potatoes
• “Green” tea

Fun
• Green Hacky Sacks
• Package of green colored markers
• Irish Movies – “Far and Away”, “The Departed”, “The Quiet Man”,
“Gone Baby Gone”

Personal Care
• Irish Spring Soap
• Green dental floss
• Green toothbrush

You might even want to throw in some green food coloring. Tons! He and his friends can have a blast greening a local fountain, river, or simply their non-alcoholic beer. And with that, all we have to say is “Good Luck!” with this. We know you’ll have a lot of fun.

Have 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.

© 2009, 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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MSCCN answers our questions - Career Advice

AWTR: As a military spouse it is often difficult for me to find a decent job that isn’t something I would have done prior to college (like waiting tables). If I do find something it’s banking or office work and pays only $7.00 an hour. The problem? The locations we move to are remote and smaller cities that just don’t support corporate jobs for nomadic military spouses. I want and need to work but making $7.00 an hour doesn’t justify putting two children in daycare. What advice do you have for me to make a decent living?

MSCCN: This is a great question, one that I have personally encountered. I have to admit that it was a bitter pill for me to swallow going from making over $20 per hour as a Marketing Executive to $7.45 as a part time Test Administrator. I wish there was an easy answer to this question, but there are many factors that will contribute to helping you navigate your career through good times and bad. What helped me get over the resentment and helplessness that I felt, was to separate the emotional from the practical parts of a job search, and address each part separately. I was able to do that by separating my search into three parts. First, I figured out my break even point, second, I developed a career goal, and, last, I changed my attitude!

First, before anyone goes out to work for a second income you have to know your break even point. A good tool I use to determine whether to take a job or continue working is the MSN Money second income calculator.
http://moneycentral.msn.com/personal-finance/calculators/Adding_a_second_income_calculator/home.aspx Run your numbers and you will be surprised by how much you have to make to add extra money to your bottom line.

Second, take time to develop a career goal this is simple all you have to do is finish this sentence: one day I would like to be_____. Then each training and job you take ask yourself if this will help you move towards that goal. Why? You will never get where you want to go if you don’t know. 14 years ago I wanted to become a Corporate Trainer, so every job and class that I have attended over the years was related to my ultimate goal of becoming a Corporate Trainer. It took time and a little creativity but I am now a Training Development Director.

Last, have a little faith and begin to enjoy your journey because it will be over before you know it! I actually changed my attitude from frustration of not being able to get ahead to excitement to tackle something new. I now say the best thing about being a military spouse is that I can change my career every three to five years. Once you open your eyes and heart to the possibilities you will be amazed at what will come.

Please understand, this is a complicated question! I tried to answer it in a short and simple way. For more information or additional help write me. Good luck!

Should your time permit, I’d like to tandem my thoughts regarding a few points made by Amy Rossi within this blog post. This is Deb Kloeppel, President and CEO of MSCCN and MSCCN Pinnacle Foundation. Learning to reinvent your “career self” is truly the key to long-term income potential. Knowing the difference between earning an income and providing long-term earning potential, is crucial when facing the realities of an up-side-down economy.

Obtain the practical skills necessary (soft and hard skills) to earn a continuous
income. Back that up with a business plan which generates a profit from your career passion – and you’ve now secured an ability to provide long-term income potential through-out your entire life.

Example: work in a bank as a new accounts representative or teller to learn
the nuances of banking. Use the skills you’ve just been paid to learn and
begin to write a business plan for the business you’ve always wanted to start.
Whether a for-profit and nonprofit business, you’ve just learned new financial
Skills in a paid setting to place towards your career passion… being your own
boss.

Soft skills are your personality traits used within a business setting. Use your personality in EVERYTHING you do. Sometimes the difference between landing an account and not landing an
account is the personality you place into your business.

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In a Divorce Who Gets Custody Of The Friends?

I have friends who are in the process of getting a divorce. This wouldn't normally be so bad, except he is in my husband's Unit and she I became pretty good friends with while the boys were deployed. Every time there is an issue in the divorce it gets spilled out into the friendship, she always wants us to take a side. Personally I like to be "Switzerland" and remain neutral. I don't like to be dragged into anyone's business.

Recently my friend asked me to tell her when her husband soon to be x gets his promotion. I was a little taken back by this. I am caught in a caught 22. I decided for the best of all to go with the good old stand by of "I don't know."

My question is in a divorce who gets custody of the friends?

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Warrior Vacations

I have just recently heard of this fantastic opportunity for soldiers! I hope that this can help some of you out there to getaway, there are some stipulations however:
*The Soldier must be married.
*Their spouses must go with them as well.
*An affilitation with Fort Stewart Army Base or
NAS Jacksonville
Happy Reintegration Ya'll!
Click the link below for more information:
FREE WARRIOR VACATION

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Our First Ball

Savannah is a beautiful and historic city, but also a lovely host to our very first ball. Now that our battallion is home and done with leave and FINALLY settling in we were able to have this gorgeous event. Our ball was rich in tradition and regulation. The usual toasts to the President, the Army, the Spouses and Family Members... it was just lovely. I wore a simple dress that I had worn prior in a wedding for a friend, but I just love it and it is super comfy :) Perhaps the most special touch was the jewelry I wore. It was my husband's grandmothers from years ago. I really felt like a lady. All soldiers and their spouse were presented with an Army coin. The back side paid honor to the soldiers we lost during this last deployment. The speakers brought such pride and love of the Army, my Soldier, and our lost to my heart that I did get a little teary. We were even lucky enough to have one of our very own enlisted men to be our guest speaker, and he was BY FAR the best speaker of the evening. He did a fantastic job. The dinner was delicious and the night went on with music, dancing, and a great opportunity to make friends. It was everything I had hoped for and more. I, as the girly-girl part in my showed, loved seeing all the gowns and hair-do's (and some DON'Ts LOL). If you have not yet experienced your first military ball, I hope you do soon. Don't be nervous either. Carry yourself as a lady, and use a bit of common sense when planning your gown and behaviors. Other then those simple tips it will be a wonderful evening I am sure. I know mine was.

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In honor of Black History Month

In honor of Black History Month

My husband and I have been given the unique opportunity to explore the history of the Buffalo Soldier. Just like the Tuskegee Airmen they made an awesome impact on behalf of this great nation. While researching this subject my husband discovered the legacy of the first female Buffalo Soldier…Cathay Williams aka William Cathay.

You will find the story of this amazing American in the below poem. To learn more about the remarkable story go to http://www.buffalosoldier.net/.

Wishing you the Best!
Tara JW


Female Buffalo Soldier- With Documents
Cathay Williams or William Cathay (Cathey)
Private, Thirty-eighth U.S. Infantry 1866-1868
An Exceptional Woman
________________________________________
Cathay Williams in Cowboy Poetry

Cathay Williams

In a tiny shotgun cabin
Martha's baby girl was born.
A baby born to slavery
That no one could forewarn.
Cathay Williams was determined
And never was deterred
As she began her life as a house girl
Being seen but never heard.

Then the Civil War broke out
And the Union soldiers came
And taking Cathay with them
Her life would never be the same.

Cathay learned the ways of military life
And became an accomplished cook.
She was sent to General Sheridan
A job she proudly undertook.

Then the Civil War was ended
And Cathay was finally free
And in seeking out her freedom,
She found her place in history.

Her own way she needed to make
And a burden to no one be
So as a Buffalo Soldier she joined up
In the 38th U. S. Infantry.

Cathay Williams became William Cathay
And no one was to know
The secret of her identity
As a soldier she did grow.

The troops moved west to Ft. Cummings
To keep the Apache at bay.
There were one hundred and one enlisted men
And among them was William Cathay.

After two years as a soldier
In the 38th Company A
William went to see the doctor
And her secret came out that day

Discharged as a Buffalo Soldier
Cathay did her very best
As she continued to make her way
In this land they called the West.

Because of her illegal enlistment
Her pension passed her by
But she picked herself up and moved on
And never questioned why.

Life ended for Cathay Williams
At the age of eighty-two
She lived a long independent life
A life that was tried but true.

A salute to Cathay Williams
The hero of this rhyme
A special woman of the west
A legend in her time.


© July 1999, Linda Kirkpatrick
Visit with Linda Kirkpatrick

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On fire for God

It's amazing to watch your child worship God. It's a blessing that I find to be the greatest gift. When they are young they worship God in their own way without worrying about what they look like or who is watching them.
Yesterday at Winter Jam, I saw something in Tanner that I hadn't seen before. He rocked out for God. Now, I think Toby Mack helped that process, but to watch him sing and dance and raise his hands in praise, I saw something great in him. I thought my gosh, he is going to be the pastor that his dad is refusing to be. Okay, maybe refusing is a strong word, how about putting off?
I find it such a blessing when God humbles your children and you know they are connecting to God and you get to witness it.
I have seen it from time to time in all of my kids. But last night I saw it mostly in Tanner. Miranda had her moments too. Once when I looked over at the girls, she had her eyes closed and she was singing away to God.
There are times as a parent when I want to take the credit and say we must be doing something right. But truth is we are just being obedient to God. It's God who gets the glory. He is the one who has touched their hearts. He is the one who is in constant communication with them. We as parents are just stewards of our children. God expects us to guide them in the right direction. When we do we get to see the results.
I have gone through many seasons with my walk with God. It's when I humble myself before God, on a continual basis that I am rewarded daily.

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Army Wife Life - Feb 23, 2009

This edition of Army Wife Life discussion is brought to you in partnership with Lucky Army Wives! (www.LuckyArmyWives.com)

Please leave your answers to the questions below by commenting on this post. Listen for Tara & Star's answers on Show 198: Week of Jan 26, 2009 using our AWTR Player to the left!

Original Blog Post: Want to wander around Vegas with us? A trip with girlfriends is always fun; and, this trip is free! Let the strains of Sinatra’s "Luck be a Lady Tonight" play in your head. Imagine huge, sparkling hotels with beautiful flowing water fountains – perhaps the Bellagio? Can you see the dazzle of incredible night shows and colorful light displays? Survey the gaming rooms filled with people and poker chips. The roar of the winners, the ringing of slot machine bells, the calls of pit bosses, the cheers of the players, the laughter of winners scooping up their rewards – I bet there are some lucky ladies in the crowd!

Let’s survey another scene…… Consider your early morning start. Can you hear "Reveille" playing as our American flag is raised high above the Post headquarters? Do you hear the sound of children waking for play and getting ready to go to school? Whew! Is that the smell of your husband's P.T. clothes? Did he really just track muddy shoes on your kitchen floor?! Glancing at your watch, you notice it’s time to tackle your activities and chores - many having to do with your work and family as well as the needs of others in your FRG (Family Readiness Group). As the day winds down, can you hear the sounds of retreat played at 1700? And the day closing at 2100 hrs with the bugle call Tattoo?

These are the sights and sounds of Army life. They cross all social boundaries. They cross all religions, and races. We are lucky, we are lucky, we are lucky...keep telling yourself that and click your heels three times. Positive thinking is quantifiably proven to take you farther in life. Lucky Army Wives are exactly that - Lucky in their Army life associations and rich experiences.

1. If you were given $100.00 to gamble away - what game would you choose to play and why?

2. The purpose of this blog is to center Army wives in their realization that we are lucky in our Army life associations and rich experiences. That being said, please tell us what you have in your Army life that makes you feel LUCKY!

3. Anyone out there ever won a lottery?

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Obedient Blessing

Every time I follow the direction God leads me I am blessed. I am amazed at how I am blessed.
A few weeks ago I was struggling with the decision to homeschool our oldest son, Tanner. We have been homeschooling for about a month now. A couple weeks ago I started to struggle with the decision to homeschool Parker. (our youngest)After getting no where with the school and the teacher having me on speed dial for situations she really could control and handle, but chose not to, I decided Wednesday was his last day at public school.
The last two days have been the most rewarding and challenging days with my boys. Homeschooling presents a whole new set of things to get done. One of them being lesson plans. I did purchase the A Beka Book curriculum and have the lesson plan books, but being this far into the school year I am trying to figure out what they know and what I need to actually teach them that they didn't get in school.
The biggest blessing today was with Tanner. Both boys struggle with basic addition facts. I think it's a tool that the schools are not teaching the kids effectively. So for the last few weeks we have spent memorizing addition facts. Today he finished all 100 problems in 4 minutes 30 seconds. The look on his face when he said I'm finished and the timer hadn't gone off yet was priceless. He was so excited for the rest of the day. He did 71 subtraction problems in 5 minutes. A month ago he didn't even come close.
Parker today worked harder than yesterday. Math and reading are the two subjects that we are going to focus on the most right now. I feel it's where they need the most work. We are sprinkling in some language, history, science and health where we can.
If ever you question why you need to follow God's lead or what purpose it has(just as I did/do)just take the plunge and follow his promting. Blessings are sure to follow.

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Leaving on a jet plane, don't know when I'll be back again

Okay, so I do know when I'll be back. But I am super excited to be leaving NC for a little while. Even though I will have my two homeschooling children with me.
My sister had a baby about 4-5 months ago and ever since she has had one thing after another happen. On Friday the 13th of February she had her 3rd surgery since she had baby Jackson. So I decided to take a little TDY of my own and go visit her next week. But then the thought occurred to me, I am the teacher of my two boys. If I leave for a few days do they just get a vacation or should I lay out very detailed lesson plans and make DH the teacher. That thought only had to be in my head for a few seconds before I could hear the phone calls from DH and the boys. So, I decided to make this a learning field trip for the boys. The last time they flew they were itty bitty. Tanner says he remembers it but he was 2 the last time he flew so I don't think he does.
Parker (the younger one) has his carry on packed already. Every night when I tuck them in they ask how many more sleeps until we leave for auntie Mandy's? My sister and I plan to take all the kids (her 2 and my 2)to the Milwaukee Public Museum. I remember going there as a kid. Right now they have some sort of Titanic display that will be cool to see. I think we all deserve a little TDY now and then. I can't wait to take mine!

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Wish You Were Here

The kids are out of school this week for Winter Break, but it feels like spring.
The wind was really blowing, so we had to take advantage.
It was fun, but we wish daddy was here.


I'm trying to decide how to keep an online journal/album/scrapbook while he's away. We want him to be able to "re-live" these moments with the kids as near to real-time as possible.

I know there is

http://www.connectandjoin.com/,
http://family.homefrontonline.com/,
http://www.websitesforheroes.org/ ,
and our recent Resource of the Week
http://www.talkingmemories.com/

I haven't used any of these, with the exception of the similar "Club Hub"s from OHF. But, I've been thinking I might enjoy it and my son is old enough to do things on such a site to connect with his dad too (gootball, summer camp, candids of baby sis: those sorts of things). I'd like it to be something easy for DJ to access and update with pics as well.

Security and little overhead charges are a must.

So I'm asking, what other similar sites should we check out?
Would you share your experiences to make my decision a little bit easier?

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A tasty meal at home!

A tasty meal at home!

These days I prefer a meal at home over a restaurant. The quality of ingredients are always better when I know they are fresh and cooked to order just as we like it the 1st time.

I have been having so much fun cooking for MW…most of all because I know he appreciates it. I found this great recipe for Indian curry chicken. Check it out...I hope you like it…I know it will taste great with yellow rice and a side salad!

Enjoy!!!

Wishing you the best!
Tara JW

Indian Curry Chicken

3 tablespoons tomato sauce
3 tablespoons plain yogurt
1 cup water
1 inch cube of ginger
2 tablespoons water
4 cloves garlic
1 cut-up, skinned chicken
2 bay leaves
3 tablespoons oil
1 cinnamon stick
5 cardamom pods (green if you can find them)
5 whole cloves
1 teaspoon hot pepper flakes
1 teaspoon turmeric
1 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon pepper
1 tablespoons lemon juice

Directions
• Mix the tomato sauce, yogurt and water and set aside.
• Blend the garlic, ginger and water until smooth. Brown the chicken pieces in the oil Remove the chicken from skillet and lower heat.
• Add the cinnamon stick, bay leaves, cardamom pods, cloves and hot pepper flakes. Stir for 30 seconds.
• Add the garlic and ginger paste and the turmeric.
• Stir for 1 minute. Add tomato mixture, salt, pepper and lemon juice. Stir.
• Add chicken, cover and simmer for 30 minutes, turning chicken a few times. Serve with plain rice.

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Army Spouse Wins Food Network URS!

By Spc. Ashley M. Armstrong

FORT SHAFTER — Out of 10,000 entries, Lisa Roman, wife of Capt. Joe Roman, strategic plans officer, 94th Army Air and Missile Defense Command, was chosen as the winner of the ultimate dessert recipe during the Food Network’s Ultimate Recipe Showdown, Sunday.

She will be awarded $25,000, and her award-winning recipe, called Baby Cakes, will be featured in T.G.I. Friday’s restaurants nationwide.
It all began a year ago when her husband was deployed and she began watching television more than usual, Lisa said.

“I saw a show on the Food Network called ‘Ultimate Recipe Showdown,’” Lisa explained. “During the show, at the bottom of the screen, they were asking for new recipes and to log on to the Food Network to enter an original recipe if you had one. So I did. Simple as that.”

Eventually, she was chosen as one of four finalists and flown to New York for the show. During the competition, finalists were required to prepare their original recipes on camera and then have their products judged.

Her husband accompanied her to New York for support.

“It was nice that he was in the audience supporting me. The tables kind of turned because normally I am at home supporting him, so it was great,” Lisa said.
Lisa said her experiences as an Army wife helped her through the competition.
“There are definitely worse things and harder circumstances in the world than being in this competition, and I’ve been through those things,” she said. “Being an Army wife is like being in a special club. It comes with responsibility and an understanding that a non-Army wife wouldn’t understand, especially if you’ve been through a deployment or stood by your husband at a funeral.”

Lisa has been married to Joe for a little more than a year. Six weeks into their marriage, Joe deployed to Iraq. A nice twist, now she is looking forward to celebrating the prize money with her husband.

See her video here: http://www.foodnetwork.com/videos/urs-winning-dessert-recipe/33221.html

“I am a newlywed, so $25,000 is a great way to start off a new marriage and having something on the menu at a restaurant is quite an honor,” she said.
Editor’s Note: Food Network News Releases were used for this article.

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Be a good mom, and maybe you'll win

February 15, 2009, St. Louis, MO —

Brag on your Military Mom this year. That’s what Quaker Oats and Army Wife Talk Radio invite you to do for the Military Mom in your life. The Celebrating Military Moms Essay Contest with Quaker True Delights is a great program because it allows you to recognize your Military Mom, for the responsibilities she juggles and delight she brings to your life.

Explain, in 150 words or more, what makes the Military Mom in your life special! She’ll be proud and overjoyed you entered her for a chance to win a Spa Finder gift certificate or a $500 Tiffany & Company gift certificate for a well-earned splurge. If she wins, her honor will be celebrated Mother’s Day weekend at her local commissary where she will be showered by Quaker Oats & DeCA.

In addition, all winning essays will be featured in Military media so everyone knows just how special you think she is. Find out complete details at ArmyWifeTalkRadio’s blog, LovingASoldier.com. All entries must be postmarked by April 15, 2009.

True Delights is a new product by Quaker Oats® that offers 3 delicious flavors, available in your local Commissary.

To learn more about Army Wife Talk Radio (AWTR), the original internet talk radio program for and by Army wives, visit ArmyWifeTalkRadio.com. Every Monday night anyone can listen LIVE at BlogTalkRadio.com/awtr from 8-10PM Eastern. Archives, articles and various resources are all linked to from the AWTR homepage.

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Time…taking advantage of every opportunity

Time…taking advantage of every opportunity

I have been given the unique opportunity at this time in my life to reflect on the overall scope of my life. You know were I have been…were I am…and were I hope to go. In the mist of so many changes in my life last year unfortunately I had to face the passing away of 3 family members and this month we faced the untimely death of my older cousin. The Lord knows how thankful I was to have MW return safely to me from Iraq in December. With each lose in my family (although I felt the sting of pain)…I was reminded of the distinguishing splendor that each of these individuals brought to my life and so many others. Each of them was true to their core values and wanted all of us to live up to our full potential.

You know to take advantage of every opportunity…to be lead by hope and faith…to always believe in a better future and work to make that belief a solid reality. Honestly, change has never been an easy thing for me…this is funny because everything I have ever wanted to be or do involved me having to make changes….and trust that everything would be ok. Sometimes people just need to be reminded of those silver linings and rainbows. Many times struggles lead to great opportunities when we focus our efforts in the right direction.

When my husband was deployed I thought my only distress would be to keep my cool until he returned…and that my friend seemed like more then I could handle. I did not even consider facing so many other forms of lose….life is filled with the unexpected…never forget that diamonds are formed under pressure and in the dark.

Just remember that no matter what happens somewhere in the mist of our situations rest the sweet fragrance of an opportunity. Do not be afraid to take advantage of them…life is a gift given to each of us. Sometimes embedded in our greatest opportunity is a chance to make a difference in someone else’s life. Maybe your big opportunity is the change someone else is looking for.

Wishing you the best,
Tara JW


Norman Vincent Peale: In every difficult situation is potential value. Believe this, then begin looking for it.

Albert Einstein: In the middle of difficulty lies opportunity.

Marian Wright Edelman: We must not, in trying to think about how we can make a big difference, ignore the small daily differences we can make which, over time, add up to big differences that we often cannot foresee.

Unknown Author: Today is a smooth white seashell, hold it close and listen to the beauty of the hours.

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What makes you comfortable?

In a discussion the other day about "dress" for military events my friends and I were laughing at the idea of wearing something comfortable. We were joking, but there is alot of merit to this idea, about having a coffee or event where everyone wore the outfit they were the most comfortable in. You know, what makes you "feel good".

We had some different comments. I know too, that sometimes what makes me feel good depends on what kind of mood I'm in.

We had...
Little black dress
Favorite jeans
Grey sweats
Shorts and a tshirt
Black dress pants

So what makes YOU feel comfortable? What are you the happiest wearing? What's your style that makes you who you are? (hee hee - I was the grey sweats girl!)

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Living on 1500 for a year

I just came across this and thought it was very interesting. Their blog is at www.livingon1500foroneyear.blogspot.com

Living on $1,500 for one year
On 1/1/09, my family (2 adults, 1 preschooler and 1 toddler) decided to create the challenge to live on $1,500 for one year for groceries, household items and personal expenses (haircuts, medical copays). I started diligently using coupons in July 2008, and we built up a decent stockpile last year. Our 2009 goal is to make the most of what we have in our household and see if it is really possible for four people to survive on $1,500 for one year.

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A Magical Place

Oh girls, this past weekend was MARVELOUS! My sweet hubby took me to Disney World for 3 days over Valentine's. It was so much fun. The weekend was full of romance and MAGIC. Jay took me to the Magic Kingdom for the whole day on Friday. This is where we met Mickey and Minnie, and had dinner at Tony's Town Square (a remake of the Lady and the Tramp spaghetti local). Saturday was my favorite day!!! We visited my FAVORITE park... EPCOT! EPCOT is neat because it has this huge lagoon that is surrounded by replicas of the worlds coolest countries and their prime hot spots. For example, the Eiffel Tower actually exist in a mini version of France. All of the castmembers (staffers) in each country are actually from that country too! It makes it feel so authentic. That night (Valentine's Day) we had dinner in Norway while watching the fireworks!!! All of the princess' where there too! We met Belle, Ariel, Aurora, Jasmine, and Cindy herself! That night my husband presented me with an official letter. The letter was to let me know he had named a star in my honor. A real star named after me. It was just a perfect day! We ended our weekend with a stop at Disney's Hollywood Studios. Jay and I rode the TOWER OF TERROR, Rockin' Rollercoaster, and many more adrenaline pumping rides! We also took time to meet all our favorite characters. We embraced the inner child and really had tons of laughs and fun! I was so sad to have to head back home :( The best part of our trip was the great deal the Disney is offering military families this year. I blogged about this a few weeks ago. If you are military you should definitely take advantage of it! Here is the link :: DISNEY
Military Service Members get a FREE 5 day pass to the parks, and for only $99pp family members (up to 5 of them) can get the same ticket! Disney is also offering 40% off all resort stays! It's a steal! The deal is good until December 23rd. Stop by your local MWR to get more information.
I wish you fun, a child-like heart, and lots of ROMANCE for your trip! :)
Have fun Pals! (In my best Mickey voice)

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USAA webinar offers Tips to Save This Tax Season and Beyond

Tips to Save This Tax Season and Beyond features CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ practitioner J.J.Montanaro and Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor Laurel Bragg.

The program will provide tax-saving tips, ways to put a tax refund toward retirement, and answers to viewer questions about tax and IRA issues.

With tax season upon us, this is a good time to understand the best strategies for dealing with tax issues, such as opening an Individual Retirement Account or starting an annuity.

USAA experts offer free financial advice to help with wealth management and retirement financial issues.

Attend our free webinar and win...
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Army Wives should have an MOS

Today I was working outside with my husband. We were laying a few patio stones so that we didn't have to track in so much mud into the house. It was quite hilarious because the ground is VERY uneven. I stood there leaning on the rake at one point laughing and he asked me what I was doing. I told him that I was supervising. "That is my MOS," I said. Ha! He didn't find me very funny. That got me to thinking though.....Perhaps "Army wife" should be it's own MOS...
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_United_States_Army_MOS lists an MOS as Military Occupational Specialty. A Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) is a job classification in use in the United States Army and Marine Corps. The occupational specialty system uses a system of letters and numbers to identify general and specific jobs of military personnel. Different branches of the military use different alphanumeric systems, but all differentiate between comparative military ranks (enlisted personnel), warrant officers, and commissioned officers.

So I say how about 95A - Army Wife.

Perhaps....

Or maybe we should just have our own classification system that works within our own little world...something like ....

95 A - 1 Organizers (these are the Army wives that are always planning and organizing something- you know the type - your spouse clubbers, frg leaders....)

95 A - 2 Worker Bees (these are the Army wives that are working hard at what they are voluntold, er um, I mean asked to do)

What do you think? Let's build an MOS - start classifying - what would YOU be?

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Higher Tricare fees among cost cutting ideas

By Rick Maze - Staff writer
Posted : Tuesday Feb 10, 2009 14:24:04 EST

A Senate committee wrestling with ways to get the federal deficit under control is weighing recommendations from a nonpartisan arm of Congress that include increases in health care fees for retirees and their families, as well as limits on veterans’ health care benefits.

At a Senate Budget Committee hearing Tuesday, Sen. Kent Conrad, D-N.D., committee chairman, said the $11.6 trillion national debt is expected to more than double by 2019, with federal health care costs a key factor.

Conrad said he thinks even that forecast is “overly optimistic” and that the debt will be larger.

The Congressional Budget Office, a nonpartisan arm of Congress, has compiled a list of 115 options for changes in medical care programs, mostly ways to cut federal funding, that Conrad’s committee is considering as it tries to prepare a 2010 federal spending guide.
The options include raising enrollment fees, copayments and deductibles for military retirees younger than age 65 and their families using the Tricare health benefits program; requiring some veterans to pay copayments when being treated for medical issues not related to military service; and a novel idea of allowing active-duty families to pocket money — up to $500 each year — if they don’t use health benefits.

Also included is a cost-sharing idea for Medicare-eligible military retirees under which the government would not cover the first $525 of health care costs each year and provide limited reimbursement of the next $4,725 in costs, all in an effort to discourage unnecessary medical treatment.

That aim also is the basis for the CBO proposal to give $500 to active-duty families in a tax-free allowance that would be used to cover new out-of-pocket expenses for Tricare. It could be used to pay for insurance from other sources, such as a spouse’s employer-provided health care plan, or it could be pocketed if the family doesn’t spend it.

It was clear from the hearing that the costs of military and veterans health care programs are not the primary focus of lawmakers, who are more worried about spiraling costs for the Medicare and Medicaid programs.

However, the fact that Tricare fees have not increased since that program was created in the mid-1990s — despite constant calls by the Defense Department to raise deductibles, copayments and enrollment fees to cut military health care costs — is likely to get attention because other Americans are paying more for their health care.

Sen. Jeff Sessions, R-Ala., noted that between 2001 and 2007, health care premiums for average Americans increased by 78 percent, which he called an “unsustainable” and “unhealthy” trend.

The budget committee does not have the power to increase Tricare fees or change veterans’ health care benefits. Instead, its influence is in making recommendations on federal spending by preparing an annual revenue and spending plan that, if approved by Congress, sets limits for various programs.

A recommendation in the budget guide to cap military or veterans health care funding could force lawmakers on other committees to devise ways to reduce spending.

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I'm headed back to DC

Yep that's right! In April, I'm headed back to Washington DC. This time it is just for the weekend and to attend the 2009 MilBloggers Convention. I had to miss last year's event in Vegas due to scheduling conflicts but I'm definitely going this year. I can't wait because I've missed all my milblogging friends.

Not to mention, I'm super excited b/c I'll be staying with one of my favorite milbloggers and ParentZone partner, LAW.




Here are some of the details from the conference website ...

Going back to the successful model of 2007, all events will take place at The Westin Arlington Gateway on April 24-25. We've secured a block of rooms for attendees. You can reserve your room by clicking here. We know some of you like to combine your trip to the conference with a vacation, so you can reserve rooms under our block from April 22-29 (subject to availability).

The registration interface is currently being revamped and updated. Once the changes have been completed, I'll post a link which will allow you to register for the conference. I doubt the link will be ready before February 1, so please sit tight while the changes are made.

The registration fee is $50 per person and includes dinner, breakfast and entry to the conference. Pretty good deal...

Are you going? Do you live near the DC area? If so, let's meetup!

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So this is love to me…

So this is love to me…

My favorite thoughts on love…I am convinced that the greatest gift we can give one another is love. The peace that love brings into the life of one who has lived without it is amazing. I have watched as the beauty of a young woman overwhelmed by love accepts her place into motherhood. I have also stood by and watched men and women go off to war as they are moved to fight for the love of what this nation stands for.

Love my friend is a powerful thing. Love is the awesome force that brought me into the arms of my husband. Love was the gift he gave to me that held me each night as I waited for him to return from Iraq only a couple of months ago. There is no rose so beautiful or song so sweet as the dedicated spirit of the love of a family…had it not been for my family the impact of our deployment could have more than terrible.
Wishing you the best!
Tara JW

Ecclesiastes 3:1-8

For everything there is a season,
And a time for every matter under heaven:
A time to be born, and a time to die;
A time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted;
A time to kill, and a time to heal;
A time to break down, and a time to build up;
A time to weep, and a time to laugh;
A time to mourn, and a time to dance;
A time to throw away stones, and a time to gather stones together;
A time to embrace, And a time to refrain from embracing;
A time to seek, and a time to lose;
A time to keep, and a time to throw away;
A time to tear, and a time to sew;
A time to keep silence, and a time to speak;
A time to love, and a time to hate,
A time for war, and a time for peace.

I Corinthians 13:4-8

Love is patient, love is kind.
It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.
It is not rude, it is not self-seeking.
It is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.
Love does not delight in evil, but rejoices with the truth.
It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
Love never fails.

Mother Teresa

I am not sure exactly what heaven will be like, but I don't know
that when we die and it comes time for God to judge us, he will
NOT ask, How many good things have you done in your life?,
rather he will ask, How much LOVE did you put into what you did?

Mother Teresa

Do not think that love, in order to be genuine, has to be extraordinary.
What we need is to love without getting tired.



Mother Teresa

The success of love is in the loving - it is not in the result of loving. Of
course it is natural in love to want the best for the other person, but
whether it turns out that way or not does not determine the value of
what we have done.

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Blessing Box

If you have never had one I encourage you to start one. When we lived in TX my adopted director Kit Dupree, made me a blessing box as my going away present. I had never heard of such a thing but it is truly a blessing. Inside the box was a card from my sister MK consultants. Wishing me well, making me laugh and they were all in this pretty box. Kit told me to add to it as my journey continues. Well my MK journey has taken a detour but I have always added cards and notes that I thought I might want to look back at.
Tonight as I was cleaning my office I went through that box. Some of the cards made me laugh, some brought tears to my eyes. One of the ones that made me laugh had old ladies in a car and one bubble said pull up so we can flash them. The other bubble said don't say it unless you mean it.
I found a card that I had kept from my grandma. It must have been from my birthday last year. I didn't realize at the time, or maybe I forgot, but she wrote in that card. It wasn't much. Just a couple of sentences but still made me feel like she was right here with me.
I had a BUNCH from my friend Tammy. Now most days we were inseparable. Our kids fought like siblings on any given day. Or tried to escape from the second floor window on the roof together.
But one thing stayed the same as I went through that whole box, I am blessed. I am blessed to have so many wonderful people in my life. Some just for a season or a reason and some are my soul sisters but I am still blessed to have/had them in my life

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Hot Stones Coming Up: Lucky Valentine

Here's an idea your Valentine will love. (with video demo)
And just think, if they reciprocate....ahhhhhhhh....
you'll both feel lucky.

I've asked and looked around, and a hot stone massage
is not that difficult. Getting stones might be the hardest part.

Some Web sites instructed do-it-yourselfers to purchase or gather
up to a dozen stones, but my massage therapist only ever uses two.
They're a pair of flat, smooth rocks similar in size and weight
(about like medium baked potatoes, only flatter).
You could try searching a rock quarry, a garden store or landscape, nursery
type store. As a beginner, two "river rocks" should be enough.

I liked in the video when the therapist said that one
could gather various stones in their travels. What a perfect way
for military couples to commemorate our visits and duty assignments
to places all over the world.



You'll need:
rocks
a slow-cooker, large enough to cover your amount of rocks with water
towels
slotted spoon or tongs

1. Place stones in the slow-cooker
2. Cover w/ water
3. Warm on slow
4. Remove w/ tongs and test on your inner/upper wrist
like you would test a baby bottle
5. Coat your Velentine and rocks with a think layer of oil
6. You can place stones for relaxation or use them as an extension of
your hands to work on problem areas

and then...maybe you'll get lucky...and they'll offer to return the favor.

Unfortunately, I'll have to celebrate Valentine's Day in March.
Instead, I'll be drowning my unlucky-ness with my
Chocolate Cake-in-a-mug, after I go shopping for the perfect river rocks.

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Book Club Update

I have had a change of plan for Book Club this month. Next week's on air segment of Book Club on Army Wife Talk Radio will be a selection from Faith Deployed by Jocelyn Green. The book for March will be Portraits of The Toughest Job in the Army by Janelle Mock. I thought it would be really fun to read Army Wives by Tanya Biank for April. Army Wives was originally published as Under the Sabers.

So go to www.armywifetalkradio.com and click on the book list to purchase titles you would like to read for book club. If you link to Amazon from the book list, AWTR gets a cut from the purchase of the book which is a great way to support the radio show!

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This Country is Beautiful Part 2

This Country is Beautiful Part 2

It’s me again…

I thought I would take this time to share a quote I truly appreciate along with a couple of snapshots I took traveling to AZ. This trip definitely put me back with my old love of capturing the world in a small frame. My next goal is to get a better camera lol…I hope you enjoy the view!

Wishing you the best!
Tara JW

Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness, and many of our people need it sorely on these accounts. Broad, wholesome, charitable views of men and things cannot be acquired by vegetating in one little corner of the earth all one's lifetime. ~Mark Twain

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There is nothing like help when…

There is nothing like help when…

Hello All,

There is nothing as refreshing as getting help when you truly need it. When people you only had the opportunity to meet moments in advance reach out beyond what they have to do and help you through a difficult situation. This week we had such a moment…I am so thankful for the right kind of help at the right time.

It also served as a reminder to me…there really are still ordinary people out here that really want to see you make it! I have to be honest I have had to get beyond some of the stuff I experienced and hold on to the whisper of idealism that meant so much to me as a kid. Over the past ten year in corporate America it has been extremely easy to get caught up in that stiff way of handling business and people I did not know. I am not saying I enjoyed it…I am just saying that the corporate jungle can change the sweetest person if individuals are not careful.

Over the past several weeks everywhere we go people are so polite and helpful…from the simplest request to the more challenging situations. I am certainly very thankful…after all change isn’t easy and it has definitely been a lot easier to go through so many transitions living this life. I wasn’t so sure I would like anything about AZ…I am so glad I have been pleasantly surprised by some of the kindness people I have ever met!

Wishing you the very Best!
Tara JW

Charity sees the need, not the cause. -German Proverb

We're here for a reason. I believe a bit of the reason is to throw little torches out to lead people through the dark. -Whoopi Goldberg

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Homeschooling Strength

A year ago if you would have told me that I would be homeschooling my 9 year old I would have looked at you like an alien and asked that you seek medical attention. Now I have been homeschooling Tanner for about a month or so and I am considering taking on my 7 year old as well. The hard part is I don't know where the balance will come. I don't know if I have the strength to handle both boys. When I tell God that I can catch him up this summer or I can work on the stuff that the school is missing something else happens that makes me want to move him from public school to homeschooling.
Today the teacher called to tell me that Parker was sitting in class not doing his work. He wasn't disruptive or hurting anyone, he simply was not doing anything that the teacher directed him to do. My response was what I am supposed to do from here? Maybe that wasn't the right response. Maybe I should have been more open. But seriously. She was there in the classroom with him and I was at home. What did she expect me to do? I asked her if I needed to come and get him and she replied no BUT he does need to follow directions. I agree that he needs to follow directions.
I asked the teachers if she had called down to the school counselor and see if she is available to talk to him. The teacher replied that it was a VERY good idea. Like the thought had never crossed her mind. HELLO these are resources right in your own building and you didn't think to use them?
Flash forward to the counselor calling me to parapharse what the teacher and I talked about and to tell me that Parker won't talk to her. He just sits there with his head down. I again asked if I needed to come and get him. The reply I got was no.
The problem I have is this. If it is such a problem that you have to call me and tell me about it then take the advise that I give you. You have a very intelligent 7 year old in your room and he has learned how to manipulate your system. He is bored with your work. You don't challenge him. School has gotten away from the kids learning. They (most public schools) teach the test and teach their students how to test well. I worked in the public school system. In the end it's number and money. It's frustrating as a parent. Especially as a parent to a child who has A.D.D. A mild case but A.D.D. none-the-less. We have worked hard in therapy to avoid melt downs and create a smart productive child.
I know I have blogged about this before but this in our daily lives right now. I can't help but think that I am not the only one.
Our decision comes down to this. Leave Parker where he is and undo all of the behavioral issues that it is creating(and that we have worked so hard to curb) or bring him home to homeschool and chance the chaos that it could cause to Tanner and his much needed help to catch up on subjects that he is behind in.
Truth is, I have my answer. God has shown me for awhile that I need to bring Parker home with Tanner and I. I am not sure that I am capable of doing it. I'm not sure I am capable of teaching Tanner while handeling a meltdown from Parker. I'm not sure I have enough grace, strength or patients to do it. Every time I say no to God something else happens with Parker. I want to be obedient and do what I think God is asking but I'm not sure I can. How do you just take the leap of faith while still being scared to death?

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Stone Silence for the 200th show!

That's what it was like at my house this weekend. Well, that is a big exaggerant, but it was a dull whisper. I LOST MY VOICE! Yes, me the talker....talkless. It hasn't been easy. I don't exactly know how to be quiet. I guess I got some sort of sinus infection and it is giving me a run for my money.

I'll be there tonight as Leah - and Leah will be there as your HH6 with Star behind the switchboard. Yes, it is our 200th show and it's killing me to not be able to be there with you "in voice" as we broadcast! I know the girls will do great though!

Only 8 more shows until our four year anniversary. Wow, it's crazy. I hope everyone is having a great day...and hey - say a few words for me tonight!

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Kinda cool! Army creates electronic warfare career field

Army creates electronic warfare career field
By Jamie Findlater

WASHINGTON (Army News Service, Feb. 6, 2009) -- The Army has announced approval for the establishment of a new Electronic Warfare 29-series career field for officers, warrant officers and enlisted personnel.

The new career field will eventually give the Army the largest electronic warfare manpower force of all the services. Nearly 1,600 EW personnel, serving at every level of command, will be added to the Army over the next three years. The Army is also considering adding an additional 2,300 personnel to the career field in the near future as personnel become available, officials said.

The Army's EW personnel will be experts not only in fighting the threat of improvised explosive devices, but will also provide commanders and their staffs guidance on how the electromagnetic spectrum can impact operations, officials said, and how friendly EW can be used to gain an advantage in support of tactical and operational objectives across the full spectrum of operations.


"The new administration has already declared they will be emphasizing technical investments across the federal government, but in particular, electronic warfare capabilities and other technological innovations," said Col. Laurie G. Buckhout, the Army's chief of electronic warfare. "The Army is leaning forward now to address the very complex challenge of controlling the electromagnetic environment in land warfare. The creation of a large cadre of full-time EW specialists is a critical step in the right direction."

Gen. Peter W. Chiarelli, Army vice chief of staff, and former commanding general of Multi-National Corps-Iraq, recognized this vital need for greater EW capability in 2006 when he placed Navy electronic warfare officers with ground combat units in Iraq to manage the complicated electromagnetic spectrum.

"We learned the hard way in 2006 how to leverage EW skill sets from the joint community to counter the emerging remote-controlled IED threats," Chiarelli said.

America's enemies are now using the electromagnetic spectrum against it and its Soldiers. By creating an electronic warfare career field, the Army is better capable of mitigating that threat, Chiarelli said.

"One of the enduring features of any future battlefield will be determined (by) resourceful enemies attempting to undermine our will by leveraging the electronic spectrum," Chiarelli said. "Building an EW structure within the Army will greatly enhance our ability to proactively counter these threats. A commitment to EW allows us to tightly integrate non-kinetic and kinetic capabilities across the Army and as part of joint operations."

Approval for the career field was based on an extensive study conducted by the Combined Arms Center at Fort Leavenworth, Kan. The study concluded that the Army EW expertise is not only necessary for counterinsurgency efforts like OIF and OEF, but against the full range of potential adversaries and should therefore be institutionalized as an enduring core competency.

To develop EW experts, Fort Sill, Okla., is now conducting a series of pilot EW Courses. Warrant officer and enlisted pilot courses are expected to begin in spring 2009. The third officer functional area pilot course is scheduled to begin June 29.

The career management field identifiers will be Functional Area 29 for officers, Military Occupational Specialty 290A for warrant officers, and Military Occupational Specialty 29E for enlisted personnel.

(Jamie Findlater writes for the Army's Electronic Warfare Office)

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Don’t Throw Your Money Down the Drain

Courtesy of USAA
“I went like a penny over,” swears Ben Kohler, 19, about his emergency purchase of gas last year. But that penny tipped the Wright State freshman’s checking account into the negative, triggering a $40 fee. He later opened his monthly bank statement to find that his account was $200 in the red as additional overdrafts and penalties piled up.

“Let’s just say there were words involved,” he says about his reaction. “My parents had to help me out.” “My old local bank would usually warn me if my balance was low,” Kohler explains. But when he left for school and switched to a national financial services giant, no such courtesy came with the checking account. “I learned the hard way that one overdraft or other fee can be a stone that knocks loose a boulder,” he recalls. To keep your finances from being crushed by bank and credit card fees, use this guide to learn about their triggers and how to avoid them.

In 2007, Americans paid more than $38 billion in bank fees and $63 billion in credit card fees.


Overdrawn
To help out his grandparents when they were ill a couple of years ago, Karney Hatch used his debit card to pay for some groceries and prescriptions. He spent $65. At the time, he didn’t realize that was $65 more than he had in his account. “My bank charged me $140 in overdraft fees,” Hatch says. “That was $35 for each purchase I made.” “It struck me as unfair,” says the 36-year-old filmmaker. He decided to document his experiences in “Overdrawn,” a 74-minute movie about his story. With the film, Hatch hopes to raise awareness and educate consumers about unnecessary fees.

Overdraft Fee

Trigger
Any time you make a withdrawal from an ATM, pay a bill online, write a check, or make a debit card purchase that exceeds the amount of money in your checking account.

Cost
About $30, or higher for repeat overdrafts.

How to avoid
Know your checking account balance, especially before you plan to spend. And know if your bank will let a debit card transaction go through even if you don’t have enough money to cover it. The fee for this service can quickly get you into trouble. Set up account alerts so your bank will either e-mail or text message you when your account is running low. Sign up at your bank for overdraft protection by linking either your credit card or savings account to your checking account so that money can be transferred when your spending exceeds your balance. Ask if a fee is charged for this protection. Another option: Put $100 in your account and forget about it.

ATM Fee

Trigger
If the ATM you use is not affiliated with your bank, that ATM’s bank may charge you for debit card withdrawals or other transactions.

Cost
$1.50 to $3; often higher at airports, hotels, and restaurants.

How to avoid
Some banks allow you to use any ATM machine without charging fees. If your bank doesn’t, plan ahead and only withdraw money from ATMs affiliated with your bank. Better yet, switch to a bank that reimburses you those fees. (See page .22 for details.) If a friendly ATM is nowhere in sight, pop into a grocery store and use your debit card to buy a pack of gum and ask for cash back, advises Emily Davidson of credit.com. “It’s safe and foolproof, and a really good way to get cash without having to pay a fee,” she says.


Late Payment Fee

Trigger
Any time your credit card payment reaches the company after the due date on your statement. These fees also may kick in if you pay less than the minimum due.

Cost
$30 to $40 per late payment, and again the risk of big jumps in your interest rate.

How to avoid
If you pay your bills online, program an automatic payment and schedule it to arrive two to three days before the due date. If you pay by mailing a check, consider purchasing a bill organizer that provides a visual reminder of when your bills are due.



Credit Card Over-Limit Fee

Trigger
Going over your credit limit, even by a cent, can set off an avalanche of credit troubles.
It may cause your card’s interest rate to double or triple. A jump from 11 percent to 35 percent is not uncommon, Davidson says. “Any time you’re maxing out your card, it’s really horrible for your credit score,” she warns. It can cause rejected loan applications and higher interest rates on car and home loans and future credit cards.

Cost
About $35 on average, plus a likely jump in your card’s interest rate.

How to avoid
Be aware of your credit-card balance and know the exact consequences if you go over the limit. Sign up for account alerts so that your credit card company will alert you by e-mail or text message when your account is close to its limit. Or, you can check your balance by calling the toll-free number on the back of your plastic, or checking your online statement. If you’ve already crossed the line, call your credit card company immediately. As a quick fix, customer service reps have been known to bump up credit limits for reliable, aware cardholders.


Debit Card Fee

Trigger
When you punch in your personal identification number (PIN) at the grocery store, gas station, or other retail outlet, many banks tack on a PIN-based, debit-transaction fee.

Cost
Up to $1.50 per transaction.

How to avoid
Opt for a bank that doesn’t charge this fee. Until you switch banks, punch the credit key instead of the debit key when you swipe your card. This pushes any fee onto the merchant.




Bad Deposit Fee

Trigger
A friend uses a check to pay you back, but her account doesn’t have enough cash in it to cover the check. Your bank will charge you for returning the check unpaid to her bank.

Cost
About $10 at most banks.

How to avoid
If you have doubts about the check, try to cash it at the bank that issued it.

Balance Transfer Fee

Trigger
You transfer your debt from one credit card to another.

Cost
Usually about 4 percent of the balance you’re transferring, which means if you shift $3,000 to a new card, you might find $120 tacked on.

How to avoid
Before you decide to move a balance to a new credit card, understand the fees that will be charged.

Tip
Shifting your balance to a card with a lower interest rate can save you money. But beware of those zero percent offers. Most only last six to nine months then jump to a higher rate.
And if you’re late with a payment or go over your credit limit, you can instantly kiss the zero percent good-bye.


SIDEBAR:

What You Can Do When You’re Slapped With a Fee
Courtesy of USAA

Call the customer service department. “First, calm down. But don’t call in an angry state of mind,” advises Emily Davidson of credit.com. “Think of your first call as informational. Get the facts, then stick to your guns and follow up if you feel you’re being ripped off.” Ask, and if you are a good, longtime, or new customer, they may agree to waive the fee. If your bank has a local branch, consider a visit to discuss the problem in person.
Research the competition and pay detailed attention to balance transfer
Research the competition and pay detailed attention to balance transfer rules. If your credit card company doesn’t come around, vote with your scissors, make the switch, zero out that card, and cut it up. But don’t close the account, because it can affect your credit score.
But if your overdrafts or late payments have grown to chronic proportions,
But if your overdrafts or late payments have grown to chronic proportions, pay the penalty. It may be time to lay your credit and debit cards on the table and find out if there are other money management tools that better fit your lifestyle, like an ATM-only account or prepaid debit card. But even with these, read the fine print and watch out for avoidable fees.

About USAA
USAA, a diversified financial services company, is the leading provider of competitively priced financial planning, insurance, investments, and banking products to members of the U.S. military and their families. Named by BusinessWeek as 2007’s Customer Service Champion and ranked highest among financial services companies for customer advocacy in a Forrester Research survey, USAA provides convenient and accessible financial products to its more than 6 million members. For more information about USAA, or to learn more about membership, visit usaa.com.

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Chicago Style Deep Dish Pizza

My Medic and I really enjoyed our trip to Chicago a few months back while he was home on R&R. Now we are addicted to the pizza! Here is our recipe that we make at home using our cast iron skillet. Hope you will like all the tastiness too!!!

Ingrediants:
1/2 tsp sugar
1 cup warm water
1 package yeast
2 1/4 - 2 1/2 cups flour
1/2 cup cornmeal
3/4 tsp salt
2 tablespoons and extra olive oil
2 cups homemade or jar marinara, pizza sauce or spaghetti sauce
1/4 pound mozzarella cheese, grated
1/4 pound fontina cheese, grated
2 tablespoons parmesan cheese, grated
1/2 pound browned meat, salami, pepperoni, sausage, or any combination OPTIONAL
1/4 pound veggies - your choice OPTIONAL

Directions:
1. In large bowl, dissolve sugar in warm water.
2. Sprinkle yeast over, stir slightly and let stand about 5 minutes to bloom.
3. Stir in 2 1/4 cup flour, cornmeal, salt and 2 tablespoons olive oil
4. Blend well and then knead in remaining 1/4 cup flour, about 5 minutes.
5. Put in deep, oiled bowl, coat by turning dough over.
6. Coat with plastic wrap allowing dough to double, about 1 hour.
7. Punch down and knead four times. Press into a 10 1/2" oiled cast iron skillet.
8. Allow to rise about 15 minutes.
9. Heat oven to 500 degrees.
10.Combine all the cheese and divide in half.
11.Press dough down slightly around edge of pan to make a rim to the crust.
12.Spread half of the cheese first over crust.
13.Spread half of the sauce over the cheese.
14.Spread half of the meat and or veggies over the sauce.
15.Repeat with remainder of your toppings.
16.Bake 15 minutes, reduce to oven to 400 degrees for ten minutes.
17.WATCH so it doesn't burn, ovens vary!

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S.W.A.K.

UPS Delivers Valentine's Day Greetings
2/5/2009 (courtesy AUSA.org's latest news)

Many local UPS Stores across the country are participating in the program Operation: Sealed With a Kiss (SWAK) to deliver Valentine's Day greetings to members of the U.S. Armed Forces.

Each participating store offers free first-class postage now through Feb. 14. 2009 to people sending valentines to U.S. military personnel stationed overseas and in Veterans Affairs hospitals.

Eligible mail must be addressed to a specific U.S. serviceman or woman at an
assigned APO/FPO address, or a specific veteran residing in a VA hospital, and must bear a valid return address.

Contact your local UPS Store for details.

Want some great ideas for what to send?
Visit FieldProblems for this month Q&A.

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Dell Emp. Purchase Prog. (extra 7% off)

Dell offers Army, National Guard, and all other military members an Employee Purchase Program Discount. So, if you're wondering what to do with that tax refund, or maybe your 2009 resolution was to go back to school and you need a great laptop...read further.

I love mine. Here's how I got it:

1. Click on link www.dell.com/FedEPP
2. Your member # is already populated.
3. Shop Dell's full catalog and receive your discount on not just laptops, but also on printers, software, televisions, etc.
4. Take advantage of even more savings by stacking your 7% Federal Employee Purchase Plan discount with those already offered by Dell. - no limit or minimum required

Other notes: Free OCONUS shipping, CAC card readers available, Financing available

Purchase on line or call in to the EPP sales representatives at 1-800-695-8133.

I purchased my laptop during a Columbus Day weekend sale last October. President's Day weekend might prove worth waiting for.

Good luck!

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Impending doom...

So, I only have 3 more days of freedom! On Sunday, I 'sell my soul' to the Army... and if I think about that too long, my heart rate speeds up and I get queasy. So I try not to think about it too long. I think this must be easier when you're younger and haven't had so many years where you actually controlled your own life. Or at least it must be easier without six months of complete relaxation (no work, no school) preceding it. My first day may not be so bad, but the first morning is going to be a SERIOUS adjustment from the lifestyle I've been lucky enough to live the last six months!

Today also marks two and a half years that I've been married, and, par for the course, my husband and I are in different states. We've only had a little over 320 days in the same state since we got married! But this time it was me leaving for my basic course, so I cannot blame him for it. I do have a newfound appreciation for his ability to focus on me the night before he deploys - I certainly didn't feel terribly romantic last night as I went over everything in my head to make sure I didn't forget anything crucial. It must be ten times worse when you're deploying, yet at least the last time, he was great about giving me an evening where he focused on us. That's better than I did last night.


I think the reason I'm nervous is the sheer physicality of the army. I've never played sports, I've never faced real physical hardship, I don't like getting up in the morning, I don't like running... I think mornings are going to be awful for a while! (I'm stiving to think of it as a weight-loss and personal training program that actually pays me.) But I'm worried; I have complete faith the Army PT programs ability to injure me, or at least make me miserable. I've been trying to get ready - making myself run (probably not enough), lifting weights - even ruckmarching with my husband, which he really enjoyed. Well, he enjoyed being the one in control of how much weight I was carrying, anyway! Which was more than he told me I was, which is probably good. The neighbors thought we were a little weird, though, especially the weeks I had a rucksack on and he didn't!

Beyond the PT and the physicality, though, there is just the responsibility. I have been around enough good officers to want to be a good one myself; and that is a little intimidating. Did I mention my husband is really looking forward to the fact that I'll have to salute him and call him 'sir' in public? It's intimidating and humbling at the same time. :)

I guess I'm just a big ball of nerves right now, and I don't know if I'll be able to blog once I get there. I hope I will, though - because I think it is going to be like moving to another country and living in another culture. Watching it from the outside as a spouse and diving into it myself have a different feel, at least thus far. I'll try to keep everyone posted, so long as I can keep my head above water!

Beyond

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Operation Purple offers FAMILY RETREAT!

Operation Purple Family Retreats
It is difficult on the entire family when a loved one is deployed, but the time after that father, mother, husband, or wife returns home is often the most challenging of all. Recognizing this, the National Military Family Association is piloting two Operation Purple® Family Retreats. These free, four-day retreats are set in a National Park using nature’s classroom, where families will have opportunities to strengthen and renew relationships, explore their natural surroundings, and participate in fun family-focused activities.

Operation Purple Family Retreat participants will be paired with highly specialized field science educators who will guide families through various activities such as nature hikes, canoeing, campfires, beach exploration, arts and crafts, and challenge activities. Families will have opportunities to communicate, work as a team, and reconnect while exploring and learning about the environment.

Additionally, activities which will highlight areas of strength and resilience in the family and promote family growth will also be provided. Families will work together to strengthen their relationship through problem solving, goal setting, and communication activities.

These retreats are open to service members and their families who have experienced deployment within the last twelve months. Families who attend will receive a $200 stipend upon arrival to the retreat site to cover cost of travel. The retreats are free thanks to support from the Sierra Club and the Sierra Club Foundation.

For more information please contact Cynthia Clagg at cynthia.clagg@nmfa.org.



Location and Dates:

Headlands Institute: March 20-23
Located just north of San Francisco in the beautiful Golden Gate National Recreation Area, Headlands Institute partners with the National Park Service to provide residential environmental science education for students and educators, teen leadership programs, summer day camps for kids, and retreat facilities. http://www.yni.org/hi

Olympic Park Institute: March 27-30
Located on the shore of Lake Crescent in Olympic National Park, the Olympic Park Institute partners with the park to provide outdoor science education programs, conference and retreat facilities, professional development opportunities, and Elderhostel programs. http://www.yni.org/opi

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Private Valentine: Blonde & Dangerous (The Movie)

This past Monday in our Army Wife Talk Radio chat room there was some discussion about Jessica Simpson's new film: Private Valentine. I had to check it out for myself. I mean it's only $1 to rent from the local Redbox. I actually enjoyed it. It was a nice movie to just escape from the "real army" and giggle a little bit. Lets be honest, it's a spoof and a comedy starring Jessica Simpson... this is not going to be a serious movie by any means. However, this movie was not nearly as cheesy as I was anticipating. Though it was somewhat easy to predict it was still fun. I'd recommend it for a fun military spouse/girls night. Private Valentine is also known as Megan Valentine, an A-List celebrity falls on some hard knocks and ends up enlisting into the U.S. Army. wear she learns much about the real world and how others feel instead of just glitz and glamour. All-in-all a cute film. For more you can view the trailer at the link below.
VALENTINE

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Dads need recognition too!

There's Quaker's Military Mom's Contest and the Commissary's Everyday is Mom's Day campaign...let us not forget about the military dads...they need recognition too!

The National Fatherhood Initiative and Lockheed- Martin Military Fatherhood Award is given annually to a military father who goes above and beyond his duties- both as a service member and a dad-to make sure that he and his family stay connected throughout the stresses of military life.

The awardee is chosen from a pool of nominations by moms, wives, kids, friends, and others from across our country and around the world. This year's awardee will be brought to Washington, DC with his family and recognized at a special ceremony on June 9, 2009.

You can get more information and nominate a father you know at http://www.fatherhood.org/Gala/MilitaryAward/. Please note that nominations are only being accepted until February 27th!

Let us know if you nomiate the father in your life. We'd love to have one of our own compete for this award. I know I couldn't be a good mom without my handsome, hardworking husband.

MAY THE BEST DAD WIN!

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It's been a little crazy around here

It's been a little crazy through the month of January - and February is off to a start that's just as insane. My senior recital finally took place on Friday - January 30. I'm in the process of slowly posting the videos on youtube, facebook, myspace, etc. I didn't realize how time consuming it could be to edit the video clips and all that good jazz.

On top of the recital, my family came to town for my recital. I love them all SO much - but they are just as exhausting. By the time Monday rolled around - I was SO tired. I was ready to go to bed when I got home at 6 pm.

Now, we're waiting to hear back on when we'll be closing on our house. Then, we'll be moving amidst all the wedding madness! Someone - get me some crazy pills becuase I'm gonna need 'em! On top of all this, Matt and I both have our own Army schedules, as well as I'm taking 19 credit hours this semester!

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Participate in this life!

"People talk about finding their lives. In reality, your life is not something you find - it's something you create."
David Phillips

How true is that? It's funny, I was doing a spouse luncheon today and speaking on the topic "Army Wife Heart" where I was trying to drive home the message to mentor, reach out, and participate in this journey. When I arrived home this was my emailed "thought of the day". Love it!

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Freezing Cooking

A fellow LAS blogger had written about freezer cooking and asked me to share the websites that I used. I thought I would just start a new topic so that they are on the front page and easily available.
http://www.momsbudget.com/freezercooking/index.html
http://www.menus4moms.com/bulk/thriftyhomeschooler.php
http://www.frugalmom.net/once_a_month_cooking.html
http://www.once-a-month-cookingworld.com/

Those are the bookmarks that I can find. When I started I just made recipes and kept them handy. After we ate that meal I marked on the recipe sheet if it was good and what I thought needed to be changed. I then put them in the three ring binder so I had them handy and didn't have loose paper everywhere. I love OAMC. I go in spurts where I do it all the time and then I don't do it for awhile. It is worth one day in the kitchen. You can have meals for weeks and not have to worry about anything but heating the oven.

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Home Schooling

Well, here we are two weeks into homeschooling Tanner. If you would have told me a year ago I was going to homeschool I would have looked at you like an alien and requested you seek medical attention.('cause I would have thought you were crazy)Not only am I homeschooling Tanner the rest of the year, I am considering homeschooling Parker next year as well. We have never been happy in the public school system and when you have one child that falls below the standard and one that continually exceeds it, it's extremely frustrating. Tanner is a good student but he is a very hands on learner. Parker can look at anything once and have it down pat.For the most part the public school system is set up to acheive a standard. If you child falls above or below that line the system doesn't adjust well to the child.
There is nothing more rewarding than to teach your child and have them understand the concept and they are then able to apply it. I'm here to be a testimony that anyone can do this. There are so many resources out there to help homeshcooling parents. It's easy to get overwhelmed. But I have an idea of what will work for Tanner and maybe what will work for Parker as well.
I'm still not sure where or when I will fit in 'me' time but I'm sure we will find out groove at some point.

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United by reading

This is an awesome program that I just found out about. Please take advantage of it. We always recorded books on tape for the kids when Ted left but it would be much cooler for the kids to see him on TV while they follow along.

Overview
The United Through Reading® Military Program helps ease the stress of separation for military families by having deployed parents read children’s books aloud via DVD for their child to watch at home.

This powerful program is available to all deploying military units and at select USO locations. It provides parents a chance to make powerful and lasting connections with their children and parent from afar.

One of the most difficult things a child can experience is having a parent deployed to a war zone for an indeterminate period of time.

www.unitedthroughreading.org

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Greencare for Troops

GreenCare for Troops is a nationwide outreach program coordinated by Project EverGreen that connects local green industry professionals with men and women serving our country in the armed forces away from home.

GreenCare is in the process of helping more than 2,000 volunteers provide free lawn and landscape services for more than 7,000 military families nationwide. The cost to manage the GreenCare for Troops Program is underwritten by Cub Cadet Commercial.
http://www.projectevergreen.com/gcft/

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AWTR February 2009 Newsletter

Hello out there fellow Household 6s!

This month comes to us full of heart! Being an Army wife does take a whole heck of a lot of heart; don’t you think? Think about all of the things we see and do in this life, on this journey, that regular civilians will never see or do. Each of us has different things we love and for many different reasons but the one thing that most of us can agree on is the reason we’re here is because of our spouses and our love and pride of them and their service to our country.

The heart of an Army wife really is a heart that no one else can explain…. only one that can be shared from one Army wife to another. This month in the spirit of “Army Wife Heart” I am challenging you to love one another by putting yourself out there and getting involved in this life. Last month I challenged you with new “Army” resolutions. This month to build on that your challenge is to mentor another Army wife and share your journey. If you are new, it is to put yourself out there to meet people and find a mentor. This can be done in several ways (all of which are part of accomplishing your 2009 “Army” resolutions!).

• Volunteer for a military related non-profit organization
• Visit ACS (Army Community Services) at your installation and find out about post wide volunteer positions
• Check out the post’s wives club
• Visit our local MWR (Morale, Welfare, and Recreation) office and join a playgroup, special interest group, or go on an outing
• Host a coffee or small group get together at your home or local restaurant
• Take an AFTB (Army Family Team Building) class
• Meet your “army wife” neighbor – need a reason to go over? Give her this list of wonderful Valentine’s Day care package ideas for her soldier from AWTR!

And lastly ….join us at Army Wife Talk Radio for a Monday night show & chat! We have all sorts of things going on this month that you won’t want to miss! Feb 2nd we kick of the month with USAA’s Certified Financial Planner JJ Montanaro. Feb 9th join us for Stephen Miller from ShareMyHeart.com. Followed by our very own “Ken & Barbie’ aka Tami Eaker and Eric Alberts from AAFES on Feb 16th. To round out the month on Feb 23rd we have the Military Spouse Corporate Career Network.


Have a super month! Your AWTR HH6, Tara Crooks

Click title for February's complete newsletter.

Yahoo ID ArmyWifeTalkRadio
Tara@ArmyWifeTalkRadio.com

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Five Myths About the Mind

“It's not surprising that there are misconceptions about how minds work. People have been speculating about how we think since, well, we started to think. But it wasn't until the last fifty or so years that we could move beyond idle speculation to serious science about how minds work.

At K¹², we believe all children deserve a top notch science education, not just those whom one might predict a career in the sciences. All children benefit from knowing about the life cycles of plants and animals, about electricity and gravity, about force and motion, about the ocean tides and the flow of blood through the body, about the Earth's core and the Milky Way. The very word science comes from the Latin scientia, meaning knowledge. An early grounding in basic scientific knowledge—not only facts and concepts, but also processes and procedures—helps produce scientifically literate citizens who can think logically and clearly about a world in which scientific discoveries and insights continue to have profound influence on the way we live and understand our universe.”

Read Five Myths About the Mind - Part 1 - CLICK HERE

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