Walk the Walk...

Let me start by putting this out there... Lately, I have become lazy! That's probably the hardest thing to say about myself, but it is true. Because of this recent proclamation, and much needed motivation from some great gals and friends, I have become more aware of some little things that can make such a big difference in my everyday life. I have decided to walk the walk...literally!

In the past, when I needed to go to the Commissary for one or two things, I would just hop in the car and go... and go... and go. A few weeks ago, I came to the realization that I am a privileged individual though. Being a military spouse, and living on a military base, I am never more than 3 or so miles from the Commissary. So, in the past few weeks, when in need of a few small things, or just to run to the PX because Ab's and I want lunch, or even when we want to go to a special park on post, we have been walking rather than hopping in the car. Now, let me make you aware of one thing... I have always been a walker/jogger. I do my daily (well, mostly daily) brisk walk/ jog and a minor workout, but I have always maintained a certain weight. This new era of walking rather than driving, though, has truly made me feel better about myself. The reasons why, you ask... When at the Commissary, I only buy what I need... when going for lunch at the PX, I eat healthier because I feel motivated to do so in my workout clothes (weird I know, but it's true)... when I weigh myself every morning, I am actually loosing rather than just maintaining as I have normally done... but most importantly, it is something that Abbi and I do together that she enjoys. She actually likes it more than when I am jogging because, rather than listening to my IPOD, her and I talk about the grass and trees, the sky, the sun, cars, other people, and you know what, this has become the most important part of my day!

Try it... I am sure you will love walking the walk as much as I do (and save some gas money while your at it)!

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Military Spouse Appreciation Day - May 7th

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Catch up

Wow, I haven't posted something in a long time (sorry Tara !). Things have been so busy ! So far, the air conditioning and the car have broken, both look like they're going to make it though. I know absolutely nothing about either, but I have learned !!! I also had to do our taxes this year. I have never done taxes before ( I know, I know... its terrible) and that totally put a damper on April. Its all done and its all fixed for the time being, and time is coming to a complete halt. My hubby's 12 month deployment just got shortened to a 7 month deployment. I don't understand it at all, but I am thankful. At the same time, I have 2 months to lose the 30 pounds I wanted to lose and re-do our bedroom. Oh well !
I've started jogging/mostly walking a 2 mile track at a local park and just last night did an ab workout dvd. I'm hurting this morning ! My hubby is one that when there's nothing to do on base, he works out, so I'm kind of ashamed to tell him what I do to work out. He has been so sweet though, he never laughs when I say I couldn't run half a mile or when I had to take a break after 10 minutes of the workout video. I've cut out all carbonated drinks and sweet tea. Now, I'm from south Georgia and sweet tea is something I have never been without. I get grouchy !
My days are dragging. I went from being in the mindset of having a long time to go to all the sudden 2 months is all I've got ! I was actually shocked as how quickly time was moving along until all the sudden he was coming home :-( Ah well ! I'll take it, because he's coming home ! I wouldn't believe it for a long time because rumors of their return started as soon as they left. My husband finally got some answers just 2 weeks ago. I still kinda can't believe it. We're trained to not expect that, you know ? I guess we'll see. I'll keep ya posted !

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Allergies and more

I am SO tired of being sick. My allergies are in full swing and then some. I've been sick for the last 2 weeks. The thing that irritates me most is that I have NEVER ever had allergy problems before.

When I co-hosted AWTR with Star a couple weeks ago, I had just come in from a run and taken a shower. As the night went on, I could feel my glands starting to swell and ache. When I woke up the next morning, I felt like death. I was glad not to get a call to sub. As that day went on, I started running a fever of 102. My wonderful husband went and got me some Won Ton Soup (what I really love to have when I'm sick) and some allergy medicine. I took that and laid in bed watching The Biggest Loser. The next day I felt better but still not good. Thursday came and I felt great. I was ok Thursday, Friday, and Saturday morning. My body apparently knew that I had to get through those few days because it was my best friend's wedding and I was her matron of honor. At her reception Saturday afternoon, I crashed. My body just said - ENOUGH! I had to leave my car in Louisville (her parents offered to bring it back to us the next day) so I could take a Benadryl and crash the whole 2 hour drive home. Sunday all I did was lay on the couch. I started to feel a little better in the afternoon, but then started feeling bad again at night. Monday morning, I woke up and told my husband that I had to go to the doctor. I had no choice. I went to the doc, and he said, "Well it's not strep (thankfully) but your allergies are awful. Your nose is so swollen when I look up it that I can tell you are having a hard time breathing. It's turned into a sinus infection and an upper respiratory infection. I'm going to put you on an anti-biotic." I was thinking, ok, an anti-biotic, I'll start to feel better in a couple days. I feel better but still not 100%. I had to take my Praxis (teacher certification) exams on Saturday morning while I had a headache. Being that I'm a music teacher, I had to do a listening section on these exams. ACK! I am just praying that I passed, because I do not want to pay to take these things again. This week has been better, but still not great. At church on Sunday, I was singing with the choir, and the choir loft is up near the altar. The fresh flower arrangements were beautiful but by the end of the service, my eyes were red, swollen, itchy, and watery. I just want this to end. I haven't been able to train or work out at all because I've just felt so lousy. I'm going to try to do at least the EA Active workout today for the first time in 2 weeks. We'll see how it goes.

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Got Motivation? Here's your Inspiration!!

This weekend I attended my first official race - the Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon. 23,000 people - a marathon, half marathon, marathon relay, kids marathon and a 5k fun run. I ran the 5K portion of the event.

We arrived on Saturday evening to our hotel about 1 mile from the Cox Center and checked in. Then we walked to the Cox Center to pick up our packets. (that was our warm up for the run the next day!) It was very well organized and easy to walk through. There were vendors and race officials all on hand.


We got all registered and meandered through the booths a bit and then headed out to Zio's to meet our friends for dinner. Yum- an excuse to load up on carbs!!

(Me with hubby)

(Our friends Abbey & Dave)

Then it was time to head back to get to bed early! Our race began at 6:40 am!! We woke up the next morning at 4am. We headed down to meet them and find the start at 5am (remember we still had a 1 mile walk to conquer). I was doing pretty good until I heard the roar of the crowds and realized that I really was about to "run" and let me tell you what then my stomach turned into some large knots. I worked myself out of the nervousness when I saw all the wonderful people who were participating in our race. I kept telling myself that it didn't matter what happened because it wasn't a race, it was untimed, I could WALK it if I wanted to!! It was just getting caught up in the whole atmosphere of the day.

Here's a pic of us in the starting corral:


We waited and eventually got the official "horn" to GO! At first we had to weave through many people and we were running about a 10:30 which was pretty fast for me but I didn't feel it b/c I was so nervous and trying to get to an open part of road and spread out. Right about that time we were at 1mile. It went SO FAST I didn't even realize it. But at 1.25 there is a HUGE hill. When I get to a hard spot like that I just keep saying "just keep swimming, just keep swimming".

I walked the hill. That killed my time a little - I ended up finishing with a pace of 13:02 a mile. After the hill was some leveling out and then a bend and so I took it in run/walk spurts as much as I could. I don't remember thinking "will this ever be over" and honestly it wouldn't have been FAST but I could have pulled a 10K. I was sweating like a pig (what's new?) but I had more in me. I had my iphone and so it was reporting in to me every .25 miles. I heard the 2.75 mile mark and knew around the bend was the FINISH. So I gave it all my might and just RAN!!! My husband said I must have been awfully motivated for that ending!! Although I ran so hard I dropped my phone which threw me off and of course made my heart explode running back, bending down, etc. LOL! Anyway - yes crossing the finish was an AMAZING feeling.

We spent the rest of the day walking - I swear we got in 10 miles through the entire Sat evening to Sun afternoon! My knees are feeling it. We visited the Memorial. What a moving experience. People were placing their medals on the "chairs" of those that were lost in the bombing. It just brought you to tears. Then we walked over to the Baptist church that is downtown and watched some of the marathon from the television in their fellowship hall and get this - they made everyone FREE pancakes and sausage, coffee, juice etc. Is that amazing or what? I read in the handout they gave us that the first year of the marathon the church members were upset because there was so much traffic that they couldn't go to church. Instead of complaining to end the marathon they all got together to "serve" by doing this pancake breakfast. My heart melted. The city was amazing, the people were amazing, the race was well organized, and I said to my husband that if you "couldn't fill up your cup of inspiration by being there then something was wrong with you!" It was true...it was AMAZING!!!

I will tell you what though - I left there thinking "all I did was a 5k" because you will see some things that just make your jaw drop! People who can't even walk well on their own completing half marathons. The cool thing about this race was that there was no "time" that you had to race against (ie they wouldn't kick you off if you decided to walk it) so as long as you FINISHED you were good. I saw people you would NEVER think would run a marathon cross 26 miles!!! It made you feel like you were capable of so much more. THAT is INSPIRATION!! There were firefighters who ran in full gear *50 lbs in memory of the fire fighters that were lost or worked so hard doing their jobs the day of the bombing and after. There were people who ran in memory of a loved one that was lost. It was so moving.

So, to wrap all of this up. I will leave you with my suggestion that even if you don't run take time to go check out a race near you!! I never thought that there were so many runners or people who would step outside their comfort zone. It's not at all what you associate it with in your head. Running is for anyone who wants to try.

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Celebrate Memorial Day with Children

© Tara Crooks

President Richard Nixon declared Memorial Day a federal holiday on the last Monday in May. On May 31, 2010 cities all around the United States will hold their own to pay respect to the men and women who have died in wars or in the service of their country.

Teaching the meaning of Memorial Day to your children can be a challenge. To many American’s Memorial Day marks the beginning of summer and is an excuse to get out and barbeque and go camping, but to military families the meaning runs much deeper than a casual barbeque. We want our children to understand why Memorial Day is a holiday and what it means to our country’s history and our warrior’s families.

The most simplistic thing you can do to offer explanation and honor this holiday with your children is to spend time talking to them about what Memorial Day means to you. Take the day to talk & reflect on the subject of those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice.

Honor & Respect -Visit a local Veteran’s cemetery. Almost every community has some sort of a war memorial.

Visit & Pay Tribute - Take cookies, books, or movies to a nearby Veteran’s hospital.

Celebrate with a Parade - Go to a Memorial Day parade. To find one near you visit: http://www.vetfriends.com/Memorial_Day_Parade/ or watch the National Memorial Day Parade on television: http://www.nationalmemorialdayparade.com/

Scavenger Hunt - http://www.educationworld.com/a_lesson/hunt/images/hunt036.pdf provides kids an online scavenger hunt that helps them learn about the history of Memorial Day.
Recognize our Heroes - Teach your children about medals of honor. You can print a Medal of Honor coloring book from http://www.homeofheroes.com/coloringbook/ and learn the history behind our brave soldiers.

Educate with History - Watch a movie and learn some history about famous battles of the past. The History Channel and The Military Channel have many shows that might fit this bill.

Create with Crafts – visit http://www.enchantedlearning.com/crafts/memorialday/ and find Memorial Day coloring pages, craft projects, word searches, quizzes and more!

Break Bread Together– All Recipes has some great Memorial Day recipes for the holiday http://allrecipes.com/HowTo/Memorial-Day-Cooking/Detail.aspx

Make A Soldier’s Day – Have your children create a card or picture to be sent overseas to a soldier currently at war.

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AWTR Show 263: Exploring Your Commissary

Presents Army Wife Talk Radio

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AWTR Show 263: Week of April 26, 2010

This week on AWTR we’re featuring DeCA’s very own Phil Sakowitz! Resource of the Week: Ameriforce Magazine, The Relationship Minute, Real Life Warrior, and AWTR Book Club!


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Memorial Day for children: Thank You Soldiers song

Memorial Day for children: Thank You Soldiers song

I posted this yesterday, and then removed it when I remembered that we were not to post links. Now I have the clarification that I can post links on the blog, just need to not do it on facebook! Ok, so here is that link again, I wanted to share because I thought it was such a sweet thank you. The website, mommylife.net, offers the music free to anyone who wants to teach the song to kids. Maybe your child's teacher should see this one! Enjoy those sweet young voices!

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It is an honor to meet you all!!!

Happy Wednesday fellow Army wives! I am brand spankin' new here at Army Wife Network, and I just wanted to take a quick minute and introduce myself to all of you. I am so excited to be here and blogging with, and for, you all! So, in as "blog friendly" means as possible, this is me:

I am Nikki Ackles, and I LOVE; absolutely love, my job as an Army wife! We hail from sunny Florida where our military story begins nearly 9 years ago, just following the September 11 attacks. Joining the Air Force was the best thing my now soldier could have done for our family, and I am daily appreciative for his sacrifice for our family. You see, had we not chosen the military route, I would most likely be teaching full time missing out on the most precious years of our three beautiful little ladies. Yes.... I said three girls! As a military wife, I have experienced 9 moves (some just home to home on the same installation).We have spent most of our time in the desert at Fort Bliss, which I can honestly say, is not as bad as most assume. I actually miss Bliss! After a very short stint at Fort Sill in Oklahoma, we now happily call Fort Stewart HOME!!!!! We love it here in coastal Georgia, and are looking forward to exploring the Atlantic beaches and all historic Savannah has to offer.

I offer just one word of advice for my fellow Army Wives'; make the most of this journey... for it is with honor that we serve, and it only lasts a very short time in the great scheme of life. I am greatly honored to be serving with you all!

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WIN with the AWN Cadence Contest!!

With our Army Wife Network team registered and excited about participating in the Army Ten Miler it was suggested we give thought to a “cadence” for our team to maintain our momentum throughout the race.

It would seem that cadence calling has been around for many years, it dates back to the late 19th century with “Over There” and “The Caisson song”. The official Army song, “The Army Goes Rolling Along,” urges soldiers to “Count off the cadence loud and strong.” Cadences calls help soldiers in creating cohesion and team building, they also pass on the history, customs, and tradition of the Army. From my research, it appears it really started with a soldier named PVT Duckworth. As the story goes, a formation of exhausted troops was returning to its barracks in May 1944 when a rhythmic chant arose from the columns. Pvt. Willie Duckworth, a soldier on detached service, sang out the first-ever rendition of "Sound-off," "Sound-off; 1-2; Sound-off; 3-4; Count cadence; 1-2-3-4; 1-2 -- 3-4." Other soldiers in the formation joined in and their dragging feet picked up momentum, it was quickly recognized as a way to keep soldiers in step while boosting unit pride and camaraderie.

Soldiers love to sing about the trials and tribulations of Army Life – like - “Momma, momma, can’t you see? Look what the Army’s done to me….., They took away my faded jean; Now I’m wearing Army green. They took away my gin and rum; Now I’m up before the sun…”
Probably the most popular is C-130 - C-130 rolling down the strip, Airborne daddy gonna take a little trip. Stand up, hook up, shuffle to the door, Jump right out and count to four. If my chute don’t open wide, I’ve got another one by my side. If that one should fail me too, Look out mama, I’m com’n through. If I die on the old drip zone, Box me up and ship me home.

Cadence helps push you forward when you feel ready quit during a march or a run. One of the most effective and motivating favorite is – “One mile, no sweat. Two miles, better yet. Three miles, think about it. Four miles, thought about it. Five miles, feeling good like I should…”

These motivational chants give you something to put your mind to – something to distract you while you’re pushing yourself to reach your goal, something to inspire you to go the distance. And that is exactly what our Army Wife Network team is looking for....

DO YOU HAVE WHAT IT TAKES TO CREATE OUR AWN 10 MILER CADENCE?

****UPDATED DEADLINE EXTENSION*****
From now through May 31st (12pm midnight) ENTER the AWN CADENCE CONTEST!

What we expect: An audio or a video demonstration of the cadence with written words.

How to enter: Email submissions to info@armywifenetwork.com. Send audio as an attachment or a link. Video as a link (where we can view it on your youtube page). All submissions audio or video must be accompanied by the WRITTEN WORDS to the cadence in the text of the email.

How we pick: All submissions will be evaluated by the team and the winner will be chosen by a vote by the AWN staff. The top THREE submissions will be featured on our blog/Facebook/main site for everyone to see. Winner will be announced LIVE on our show May 10th!

The prize: Well, bragging rights is the big prize right? The AWN team will be "cadencing" your creation at the starting line of the Army Ten Miler and as we cross the finish line (and probably a few times in between). But, just because we love you - we'll throw in an AWN tshirt, a HH6 pin, some AWN goodies (books, notepads, pens, etc.), a HOOAH handbag courtesy of Jayne Wayne Gear and OH YEAH - how about an Ipod courtesy of http://www.usaa.com/?

So get to writing and get to "cadencing". We'll be looking for your submissions!

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My Weight Loss Journey Continues!

A few months back I posted about my weight loss and running journey - it started here: http://awtr.blogspot.com/2010/01/put-down-chips-learn-to-run-and-lose.html

Then I told you how I was progressing: http://awtr.blogspot.com/2010/01/achieve-mountain-out-of-molehill.html and even shared a bit of getting outside of my comfort zone here: http://awtr.blogspot.com/2010/01/no-fear-not-in-here.html

So I thought today I'd catch you up on how the journey is going! To look back at those blog posts and realize that they are only a few months ago is fascinating to me. Since that time I have lost 26 lbs. I am down to 202.7 this morning at weigh in. So close to my first goal of 200 (well, 199!!) I can taste it. (Don't worry it's LOW FAT!!)

The AWN team has committed to running the Army Ten Miler. So, we've all been training. This Saturday I will run my first "official" 5k at the OK Memorial Marathon. I've been running with teammate Mandy at the 3 mile track for a few weeks now and of course still doing the C25K running plan at the gym when we're not at the track. The weight loss has been great - I FEEL healthier. I FEEL like I can do more. I am not as tired nor as stressed. I actually CRAVE my morning workout! It's my new hobby! (I definitely crave my "out of comfort zone" Zumba which has become my NEW comfort zone!!!)

Craving exercise is one thing but it does not come without pain. Especially last week when to prepare our minds Mandy and I decided to do 9 miles at the track. It was tough, but it was POSSIBLE. I'm currently running about 4.8 mph which is more than enough to make the 15 min mile requirement for the ATM but it's still not something I can do for 10 miles. Still, three months ago I couldn't have even WALKED 3 miles let alone 9.

I used to think it would never get easier. Everyone said that it would but I didn't believe them. I've never been a runner, what made me think I could be one now? I don't know, but I do it. I have had steady weight loss - 15 week and 26 lbs isn't even 2lbs per week. Some weeks have started to dwindle down lately but as long as they are losses I'll take them! I've seen a steady change in my shirt size and two sizes down in my jeans (buying a 12 as my next set of GOAL jeans- can't wait till I can wear those!!!). Going through the garage sale items this past weekend was very hard for me. I had some beautiful clothes I had to get rid of cause they were so big. I don't want to be that size - but I want those clothes back! I know. I'm a dork. My daughter held up a pair of jeans and said "wow mama these are alot bigger than your pants from the laundry." That made me feel good. There are times that I even do the laundry and think "these are MY pants? They're so small??" I guess it's all relative.

The true revelation came tonight when my hubby asked "what are you wearing to the BN Ball next week?" and I went upstairs and pulled out a dress I wore to a ball right after my first daughter was born 8 years ago. I put it on, zipped it up, and even got on the shoes that haven't fit in years!! It's those small accomplishments. I need those visuals though b/c I swear once you're fat you always "feel" fat. Weird. I can't really describe that.

So there is my journey, ramblings in a nutshell, and what I've been up to since the last time we talked "weight loss". I hope whatever goal you chose for this year that you are accomplishing with gusto! HOOAH!!!!

ps. I'll be sure to post up some pics from the first 5k! :)

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Tomboy Tools, Hearts Apart, Parenting Min & More!

Presents Army Wife Talk Radio

Proudly sponsored by K12

AWTR Show 262: Week of April 19, 2010

This week on AWTR we’re featuring Tomboy Tools CEO Janet Rickstrew! Resource of the Week: A Heart Apart, The Parenting Minute, AWTR Music, Army Wife Life, and AWTR Mess Hall!


Visit Army Wife Network and Loving A Soldier Blog

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WIN!! Army Wife Life Around The Water Buffalo

Here’s how it works: on our Army Wife Talk Radio show each Monday night (for more info check out the PODCAST tab of the main site) during the Army Wife Life segment we’ll talk about a chosen topic. We will post the topic to our message boards (with reminders on our blog and FB page) for you to comment http://www.armywifenetwork.com/forum in our AROUND THE WATER BUFFALO section.

TO WIN all you need to do is TALK!! We’ll draw a name from those that reply. Every post on our boards for the topic counts as an entry so get talking for more changes to grab a prize!

The bi-weekly winner will be announced the following AWL segment - LIVE on the air. To claim your prize you must email us at info@armywifenetwork.com which means you're going to have to LISTEN to the show (LIVE or ARCHIVE) to see if you won!! Listeners/Viewers have 2 weeks to claim their prize - once we've announced the next AWL winner you must have already contacted us or you'll forfeit your prize!

GATHER AROUND THE WATER BUFFALO and WIN!!

CLICK HERE to visit our Message Boards and ENTER TO WIN!! - for weeks of April 19, 2010 through May 3, 2010

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SEARS offering SALUTE TO HEROES discount - April 17th

Sears is honoring America's service people with a special Salute to Heroes sale this Saturday, April 17, 11 AM to 2 PM.

Sears is offering an extra 10% off its lowest prices and the discount applies to almost all of the items in store at select stores.

http://www.sears.com/salutetoheroes

Don’t forget to bring ID to prove your local hero status

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Wings for Women Conference: Fort Carson, CO

Just passing on some info that I received about what appears to be a great conference for military spouses in the Colorado Springs area. Find out more at www.wingsconference2010.eventbrite.com

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Letting it out...

Hello ladies! Hope everyone is doing well. We've been busy lately! Time is flying by and I'm always left needing more of it! We have a little over two months before the hubby leaves and there is so much to cram into those two months. I don't even know where to begin! Things always have a way of working out though.

I wanted to take my mind off of everything tonight so I thought it would be fun to share some facts about me with you all! I always love learning new things about people! Not that I'm an exciting person to learn new things about but here we go anyways! Feel free to share some things about yourselves also!

1. I used to play the violin. Actually, I still could if I wanted to but I haven't in a long time. It's sitting upstairs collecting dust. I started when I was in 5th grade. I think I stopped shortly after I had my 1st kid.

2. My brother and I are 20 years apart, my mom couldn't get pregnant anymore so she adopted my sister who is 8 years older than me and then I'm pretty sure I was a surprise since doctors told my mom she couldn't have kids after my brother.

3. I have to sleep with the covers a certain way when I go to bed and it drives my husband crazy!

4. I'm truly afraid to start a photography business so I don't charge anyone. I do everything for free, although I did charge a few times but it didn't feel right to me. I lack the confidence to put myself out there and start charging people. Besides, why would I charge to do something that I love and have a blast doing?! I have even done weddings, and let me tell you, it wasn't easy. I LOVE my camera. I think about it often. If you'd like you can see me here: http://www.flickr.com/photos/archerphotos/

5. I am a chronic nail biter. Once I start I can't stop. It drives me crazy and I hate it. Now my kids have even started doing it.

6. I got married at 17. My hubby is 7 years older than me. There were opinions about this. My parents were some of the few people fully supported me and love him like one of their own. We knew each other for a while, his little sister and I were good friends but we never really noticed each other until one day he heard I was having a really hard time and took me out for ice cream. We knew right away that day :)

7. My husband calls me princess and I call him love. We truly are best friends. We have fun and don't like to be apart. When we do argue, we get over it. I love the man with every fiber of my being. Even when he drives me nuts the man manages to make me love him. Corny but true.

8. My kids make me happy. Soul-glowing, perma-grin, cheeks-hurt-from-smiling happy. There is nothing that makes me happier than hearing my kids (unless it's whining or crying). But this doesn't mean that I don't want to pull my hair out all the time. I should be bald by now.

9. For some odd reason I am obsessed with my husbands homecoming more than the farewell or anything else. I think it's because that's the most important part to me and I don't want to think about the rest.

10. I hated and still hate the idea of buying a house. It feels like I'm being tied down to one location and I panic. I think I have a bit of a gypsy heart and could see my family traveling all over the place with no "anchor" holding us back. My husband does not like this one bit. He needs a place to call "home". To me home is anyplace he and kids are. Cheesy, I know. He's won this battle I'm afraid.

11. I'm a daddy's girl through and through.

12. I start a million things that I often don't finish. I hate it but can't seem to kick the habit.

13. I'm LDS (mormon)

14. I love the military. I really really do. I love being a military family. I am so proud of my husband I could cry...and I do. I love being a part of something so amazing. I have so much respect and love for you all and your soldiers. I really do.

15. I'm jealous of my brother and sister because they knew my grandparents and have memories of them. I don't have either of those things. So when I was little I would have imaginary play dates with them. No imaginary friends, just imaginary grandparents. I was always the favorite ;)

16. I'm terrified of heights. Really terrified.

17. I LOVE Funyuns and Sunkist.

Alright, that's all I can think of! Hope this wasn't completely boring. Feel free to share in the comments!

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April: Month of the Military Child

As most of you already know, April has been designated Month of the Military Child. With that in mind, I wanted to share with you this list that I found online. I think you'll find it to be heartwarmingly true, not only for military children, but military spouses as well!

1. A civilian child usually dances around or talks during the National
Anthem. A military child stands quietly with his hand over his heart.

2. A civilian child sees race. A military child sees diversity.

3. A civilian child has a best friend in his hometown. A military
child has a best friend on almost every continent.

4. A civilian child sees only the plane flying over. A military child
not only can identify the type of plane flying but knows someone who
works on them.

5. A civilian child smells something nasty and yells; "Eeewwww, what's
that smell?". A military child smells something nasty and yells; Daddy
did you FART?!!!!!

6. A civilian child sees a person in uniform. A military child can
tell you what branch he's in and what his rank is.

7. A civilian child thinks home is where the heart is. A military
child knows home is where the military sends you.

8. A civilian child lives for tomorrow and what it might bring. A
military child lives for today because tomorrow, Daddy might get
called away again.

9. A civilian child gets to kiss mommy and daddy goodnight each night.
A military child sometimes has to kiss a picture of daddy or mommy
goodnight.

10. A civilian child talks on the phone for fun. A military child
lives for the 15 minute phone calls once a week.

11. A civilian child can read and write in English. A military child
can read and write in acronym.

12. A civilian child says "good-bye". A military child says "see you
later" (don't we know it, there's never GOOD BYE).

13. A civilian child gets to see things other kids would love to see.
A military child gets to see things world leaders would love to see.

14. A civilian child will probably go to the same school his entire
life. A military child will probably change schools every 2 years.

15. A civilian child might rarely leave his hometown for anything
other than vacation. A military child will rarely see his "hometown"
for anything other than vacation.

And finally...a civilian child supports our soldiers. A military child
IS a soldier.

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LISTEN NOW: Lifetime Army Wives

Presents Army Wife Talk Radio

Proudly sponsored by K12

AWTR Show 261: Week of April 12, 2010

This week on AWTR we’re featuring Lifetime Army Wives! Resource of the Week: Homefires Bouidoir, The Me Minute, Real Life Warrior, and Household 6!


Visit Army Wife Network and Loving A Soldier Blog

Click here to download the MP3

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K12: Military Family - Stuhlfire

K12: Advertorial: Military Family-Stuhlfire

When her daughter was 2 years old, Colleen Stuhlfire started to think about her education and decided that she would school her child at home. Her decision was based on conversations with other military families who spoke of the strain on children who often change schools because of multiple redeployments, coupled with curriculums that vary from state to state.

The spouse of a Navy aviator for 19 years, Coleen also recalls watching a TV program featuring a K12 executive who was discussing the benefits of online education. So when her daughter was ready for kindergarten, Coleen did her homework to find the right curriculum and selected the K12 program. Today, seven years later, Colleen is a veteran K12 parent educating both her 11-year-old daughter and 8-year-old son through at last count, five relocations.

“I chose to educate at home because we were relocating so frequently and I wanted the stability of having that one sure thing in their lives,” explained Colleen. Moreover, she discovered that kids who relocate often have to skip a subject because different school districts offer subjects at different grade levels.

“For example, if you move to a new state and you expected your child to start learning American history in the sixth grade, because that was the curriculum schedule in your old school, you [might] find that the new school taught it in the fifth grade — so you miss an entire subject,” she explained. On the flip side, some kids can take the same subject twice because of the difference in state curriculums. “Think about it,” she continued. ”Kids can miss an important subject such as physical science when they change schools, and then they are expected to tackle biology without the science background.”

Out of the Box

What impressed Coleen and her husband about the K12 curriculum is its quality, portability, and ease of use.

“I had a goal in mind when I decided to school at home, and it was that my kids would get a great education and have fun,” she said, adding, “K12 made it attractive because my kids can learn anyplace and at any time. And I liked the fact that all the materials came in one box and I don’t have to spend hours and hours trying to first learn it myself,” she said.

Colleen pointed out that parents should find an educational curriculum that works for them, but advised that it’s important to find a program with comprehensive courses and support, so you can spend more time teaching and having fun.

“I find that people who have to put together their own curriculum are constantly harried and researching everything and always working to figure out what they are going to do tomorrow. They don’t realize that they are eating into their own teaching time,” she explained, adding, “It’s not that I don’t plan ahead—I certainly do. But I know that with the K12 program, when I have to teach any particular unit — everything is already there for me. I don’t have to go find more information.”

Further, Colleen noted that the K12 curriculum comes “all together, so I don’t have to spend hours and hours at night trying to first learn it myself, or go look at 100 different sources and figure out how to present it,” she said. “Basically, I log-in in the morning and figure out what we want to do and if I don’t already know it, I can learn along with the kids.” she added.

K12 Is the Glue

Moving from state to state during their 19 years in the military, Coleen knows firsthand how hard it is for families to make the switch from school to school.

“It’s difficult because in the Navy you get orders in midyear and it can be overwhelming moving to a new place. You often don’t even know where the library is for the first three months. But all we need is an Internet connection, and we’re back in school the first day. And if my husband gets deployed overseas, I can go to my parents’ house and school there for three months. K12 is a real glue for the family; it’s something we can always count on,” she said.

Exceeding the Tests

Before being relocated to the Dallas-Fort Worth area this year, the Stuhlfires lived in Virginia, where the state requires that children in grades three through eight be tested every year. Colleen was given the option to select from a number of tests and chose the California State Achievement Test for her daughter. “I had no idea how she would pan out, but she did fantastically — scoring in the 95th-99th percentile,” Coleen said. “I was really surprised because it gave me another validation outside of K12 that she is doing really well,” she added.

Another benefit Coleen discovered about teaching at home is the amount of time the family has to explore new things and follow passions. Because they lived right outside of Washington, D.C., Coleen often took the children to museums and historical sites. The Stuhlfire family views each new deployment as a new adventure, and they act as if they are tourists wherever they go.

“We know we’ll only be someplace for a short time so we make sure we explore the area, which enhances the children’s education,” she said. For example, Coleen will take the kids to a museum late in the afternoon, knowing that the bus trip for other schoolchildren will be long gone and that they’ll basically have the museum to themselves. And when they visited the National Zoo during a weekday because it wasn’t crowded, the staff offered special behind-the-scenes tours of the zoo. “In Texas, we go to the rodeo, and they have a great farmer’s market — unlike anything in the Northeast. It’s all a great learning experience for the kids.”

Anyone Can Do It

Coleen advises parents who are considering educating their children at home that they don’t have to make it hard on themselves. “Anybody who wants to do it can do it — basically, the only requirement is that you have to know how to read,” she laughed.

Exceptional Education

K12 treats military families with an extra measure of service. K¹² partners with more than half the states and Washington, DC to offer tuition-free options. What’s more, where those options are not yet available, active-duty families can always save 15 percent on independent study courses or full-time options with teacher support.

To find out more, please go to k12.com/military.

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ok Lifetime, do your best!

tonight is the start of the new season of Army Wives, and i don't know if you're like me, but that show can bring on the waterworks. during the first season, i found that i was blubbering at some point in the show, my husband would walk into the room, see me and quietly back out. i would proclaim my love for the show and my husband would ask "but it always makes you cry, how can that be good?" psh, men. i sounded like a junkie when i responded with "i can stop crying if i wanted to." so it then became somewhat of a personal challenge, was i able to watch the show without turning into a pile of sobbing jello? i steeled myself for the last few episodes of season 1, and did not feel the need to cry for *one* show. it was a sad storyline, or so i reasoned there was no way i wasn't going to cry. season two was up, and i was more than sure that i could do it. i think i cried at some point or got teary eyed for all but maybe 3 episodes.

with season three upon us tonight, i am a little nervous. i know there is a 75% chance of me crying or being teary eyed. let me clarify something, i am not someone who cries easily, so the fact that i can't seem to watch this one show without it affecting me is quite the anomaly. i think it's because in the instances i have gotten teary eyed or cried, it was presented so well that it more than hit home with the real life situations that we do find ourselves in sometimes as the real life counterparts to these characters. i am very grateful that i have this show, even if i do get a little teary eyed every now and then.

so i challenge Lifetime to bring it on! i will sit in front of the t.v. tonight with the hope of not feeling like a wimp if i feel tears coming on, but will have a box of tissues nearby if needed. it's not looking good for me though, denise's son shot himself but who knows how it's going to turn out, joan was in a firefight in iraq while her baby is in the hospital seriously sick, pamela left her husband, and i will be shocked if it doesn't affect me. ok, maybe i rescind the challenge to Lifetime........until next week. but then IT'S ON!!

*armybelle* is very sorry for not posting lately. to paraphrase the wise words of ricky martin: life, sometimes she's crazy.

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Retreat, Fort Carson Style!

Hearing Retreat being played is one of my favorite parts about being an "Army Brat". It is such a unique tradition, one with so much history!

Just the other day, I got to witness the Retreat tradition at Fort Carson for the very first time and it was amazing! We were leaving the Commissary right before 1700 and had enough time to park in the parking lot right next to the HUGE Post flag. We got out of the car so that we could watch all of the Soldiers who were preparing to take the flag down.

Right before 1700, the chapel bells rang and then it was time for Retreat. An MP car was parked in the middle of the intersection right near the flag with it's lights flashing. We weren't sure what that was all about but we soon found out! As soon as retreat was done being played, a piece of artillery was fired! The MP car was there to help keep everyone safe! The artillery made a loud BOOM and we weren't expecting it, but it was great to hear it! It's been a long time since we've heard the artillery we were so used to hearing at Fort Sill!

We stayed for a little while after Retreat was finished playing so we could watch the Solider's fold the flag. The flag is so big that it took 8 of them to fold it! At Fort Sill, they left the flag up and we never got to see them take it down. Another thing that was interesting to see at Fort Carson was the number of cars that pulled over, got out of their cars and (for the Soliders in uniform) saluted the flag. It was very moving to see the proper respect being payed to the flag.

Have you ever stopped and watched the Soldiers fold the flag at the end of the day? Does the Post you're stationed do anything unique during Reveille or Retreat?

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A new adventure for our family...

I am excited to say that the end of the first chapter of our initiation into Army life is coming to a close. My husband Pachenko will be graduating AIT on April 20th he is graduating honor grad we are very proud of him. I look back at when he first left for BCT time just flew by for us and I am grateful for how the time apart strengthened our marriage.

As that chapter ends we are now starting the PCS~ING process first off my husband received orders to Germany oh yes an overseas pcs~ing. Now for all you wonderful Army wives who have already done an overseas move you know what that entails the dreaded EFMP paper work, Command Sponsorship as well as nofee passports...SIGH...I am very excited and am grateful that we are going to have this experience what a wonderful learning adventure for our daughters as well as ourselves. I have of course already made a list of all the places I want to visit and explore you would be crazy to not take advantage of the opportunity of being in the center point of Europe. Life is a little chaotic and extremely busy we have EFMP physicals and Nofee passport appointments scheduled next week, then the following week Pachenko will be home for a short leave before he heads over to Germany and my poor calendar is covered in to do lists.
At first I was irritated that we would not be flying over at the same time as my husband the idea of my first time flying as well as my daughters first time flying being me in a plane with 5 kids by myself for a 14 hour flight was enough to make me think hmmm stateside would of been better. However it's just not in my personality to be negative so out went those thoughts and in came the reality of the situation there is too much to do to just up and move in 30 days or less. We have a life here in Montana, a house we rent, children in school it wouldn't be impossible to just pick up and leave but I am sorta relieved that I don't have to stress and rush to get things done. Even though I am counting the days until I can wake up on a daily basis next to my husband the organized, list making addicted planner that I am is taking advantage of the delayed travel process and getting as much done as I can to make our PCS as smooth and un-stressful as it can possibly be.
I would love to hear about your ladies experiences with a first PCS to overseas as well as any tips you might like to pass on and of course I am always up for making new friends in my soon to be new home...

Auf Wiedersehen Damen

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Army Wife Network Newsletter, April 2010

You can sign up on the sidebar for blog updates, show announcements and newsletters right to your inbox. Or for April's newsletter, just click below. Anywhere!

Remember, April is the Month of the Military Child. Army Wife Talk Radio kicked it off with a great guest, Linda Dennis, the creater of www.monthofthemilitarychild.org;
Enjoy, Star Henderson

Our downloadable newsletters are in a printable format in order that you may distribute--easily--to your spouse clubs, family groups, your chain of command and concern, and others within your Army Wife Network. They are two-sided, single sheets, which offer the best resources, URLs, and articles we gather each month.

They are created and copyrighted by Army Wife Network,
but they are YOURS to personalize and circulate.

There are small editable text boxes for you to update your local network on calendar events and contact data.

You can brand it with your name as subtext to the Army Wife Network name.

Send the issues home with the service member, post them on unit bulletin boards, email them to your distro list, or post them to your Web site. Tell us the ways you've found best to get the word out. We can share that as a "hot tip" in our next newsletter.

Hello out there fellow Army Wives!

Welcome to April. The month of April is the Month of the Military Child! This special celebration is a legacy of former Defense Secretary Caspar Weinberger - established to underscore the important role children play in the Armed Forces community. According to the Military Child Education Coalition (http://www.militarychild.org/) nearly 2 million children across the world are connected to the U.S. military. Military children are a special breed. They are faced with a myriad of circumstances that civilian kids might never face.

Despite their challenges, experts say that military children are well-rounded, culturally aware and tolerant, and extremely resilient.

This month take some time out to share something special with your military child. Check out http://www.monthofthemilitarychild.com/ for arts & crafts, lesson plans, and activities that will be fun for the whole family. Download AWN's Military Children's Book List and go for a trip to the library!

Here are a few of our favorites:

• Our 50 States: A Family Adventure Across America by Lynne Cheney
• Night Catch by Brenda Ehrmantraut
• The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn
• I'm Red, White, & Blue...Are You Feeling it Too? by Deanna Lynn Cole
• We Serve Too! by Kathleen Edick and Paula Johnson
• The Hero in My Pocket by Marlene Lee
• The Blue Day Book for Kids: A Lesson in Cheering Yourself Up by Bradley Trevor Greive
• Dear Soldier: Heartfelt Letters from America's Children by Barbara W. Baldwin, Amber Baldwin D'Amico, Heather Baldwin Duff
• The Five Love Languages of Children by Gary Chapman, Ross Campbell

For more wonderful ideas on how to get children involved in your local community/installation check out the tons of resources available online for military families:

Army's 2010 Celebration of the Military Child

Military Brats Online

Operation Military Kids

Military Youth on the Move

Our Military Kids

Deployment Kids

Join us on Army Wife Network this month (our main site, facebook, and podcast) for a wonderful showcase of military children's resources to help your family on their Army journey!

Your "Lipstick 6",
Tara Crooks

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Seven Dwarfs of Deployment

I know most of you have seen Snow White, so you are familiar with Sneezy, Happy, Dopey, Doc, Bashful, Sleepy and Grumpy, the seven dwarfs. Little did you know there are seven dwarfs of deployment.

Doc - Once your husband leaves you not only are mother and father, but plumber, electrician, counselor, and doctor. You have to be it all and do it all to pick up the slack from missing an entire adult from the family. Cold and flu season is finally at an end, I was feeling like a doctor or a nurse, more like an orderly as I have touched way more human by-products than I care to talk about.

Sleepy - This one is easy, I honestly can count on one hand the number of nights I have actually slept more than six hours straight through. Children, pets, and faulty alarm system wiring have kept me very sleepy.

Sneezy - I know that stress and lack of sleep lower the immune system, but seriously, could we have had a few more illnesses in the house? All five of us got Hand Foot and Mouth disease, fortunately is sounds worse than it was, but it was not pretty.

Grumpy - I am currently channeling Grumpy, I am so grumpy and grouchy. We are around the half way mark and I am fed up with this deployment. The kids are sick of each other and sick of me. I feel like I am walking around with a gray cloud over my head.

Happy - Right before R&R or at the end of the deployment, there is so much happiness. I keep playing our reunion in my head over and over. I can't wait for R&R. I am so excited to see the look on my boys faces when they see their Dad and the look on his face when they see him.

Bashful - I don't know why, but I am always a little bashful when my husband first comes home. Will he still love me, find me attractive? That always goes out the window with that first reunion kiss. I know that it will, but I always wonder, and I am always nervous to see him.

Dopey - Disney describes Dopey as childlike. Reunion always makes me feel Dopey, a little childlike, giddy at the thought of seeing and hugging my soldier again. It is like Christmas morning and your best birthday rolled into one. Your heart pounds and you are so full of anticipation.

This analogy would not be complete without the last scene of the fairy tale, where the prince kisses Snow White, bringing her back to life. I have felt half asleep throughout this deployment, my heart on ice. I can't wait for that first reunion kiss to wake me from this horrible deployment dream. We will live happily ever after, at least until the next deployment.

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Goings On at Forts Knox, Irwin, and Carson

Fort Knox

Taste of Derby
An Evening of Wine and Jazz
Gallotta’s on April 10 at 6 PM $20
Featuring the sounds of The Ray Byrd Trio – Tickets available at Gallotta’s and Web Trac.
Free Valet Parking at the event and attire is business casual.


CYSS Celebrates the month of the Military Child
Presenting Disney’s The Princess and the Frog – a free showing on April 11 at 2 pm in the Olive Theater. There will be 1 free soda and popcorn for each attendee. Parents must accompany children under 10 years of age. Seating is on a first come, first serve basis.
Fort Knox Volunteer Celebration Month!
April 11 – Free volunteer bowling and pizza party at the Houston Bowling Center from 6-8 pm
April 18 – Volunteer Table & Display – USO Sesame Street Tour at Natcher Gym at 2 pm
April 24 – Installation Volunteer Appreciation/Recruitment Fair FMWR Expo in the PX parking lot from 10 am – 4 pm
April 26 – Outstanding Volunteer of the Year Ceremony at the Leaders Club at 7 pm

April 17 & 18 – French Shooting Club presents Kentucly Firearms CCDW Class. $60 per person and you must attend both days. April 17 from 6- 10 pm and April 18 from 8 am – 12 pm. Registration required NLT April 11. Must bring firearm, 50 Factory Rounds, and Eye Protection

April 23 – Free Dance for Middle School and High School Students
MS Dance is from 6 – 8:30 PM and the HS Dance is from 9 – 11:30 PM at the Devers Middle School & Teen Center

Fort Irwin, CA
http://www.fortirwinfmwr.com/
Arts & Crafts Pirate Party!
Aaaaar MATEY!
We are Having a PIRATE PARTY At Arts & Crafts Bldg. 976 at 12:00
Cost: Doubloons ($15.00) 24 April


Avast! All Ye buccaneers,
Lovely lasses and Sprogs, (raw untrained recruits) Bring ye Pirattitude and your jolly roger
Learn the sweet trade. “Be Thar! Or be a Scallywag!
Sign up soon!

Fort Irwin Food & Wine Festival
On May 15, 2010 from 3 p.m.-9 p.m. Fort Irwin, home of the National Training Center, will host its first ever Fort Irwin Food & Wine Festival. The theme for the inaugural event is Tastes, Sights & Sounds of the World.The Fort Irwin Food & Wine Festival strives to revitalize the concept of an old World’s Fair and pair it with the more modern concept of wine & gourmet food festivals.The festival will feature fine cuisine, wine, entertainment, merchandise vendors and art from local and regional areas.We are currently looking for interested food, beverage and merchandise vendors in all parts of California to display and sell their best work to enhance our event.We are especially interested in vendors that have unique items or cuisine which reflects any of the following world regions:

America, Canada, Asia, the Pacific & Polynesian Islands, Europe & the Mediterranean, Latin America, Caribbean, Africa
Now, what will becoming a vendor do for you? We believe participating in the Fort Irwin Food & Wine Festival would be a positive business move because you will have the opportunity to introduce and in some cases re-introduce your product to our post during the debut of a fresh, innovative and new event concept for our community.
We hope you will take part!

COOKING COMPETITIONS: Do you make the best Salsa at Fort Irwin? Can you bake
cupcakes better than anyone else. Now is your opportunity to prove it.
Register now for any one of these cooking competitions. It is all a part of
the Fort Irwin Food & Wine Festival on May 15 from 5pm to 9pm at Sandy
Basin. You can pick up a registration form at building 550 MWR Marketing or
by visiting our website www.fortirwinmwr.com. Registration is free. Winners
get bragging rights and food supply or restaurant gift cards. See rules and
regulations for more information. The deadline is May 1. Call 380-7144 for
more information.

Splash Dogs!
May 7, 2010 - May 9, 2010
Splash Dogs at Bass Pro Rancho Cucamonga
“Splash Dogs” is coming again to Rancho Cucamonga, Bass Pro Outdoor World. Yes, it’s back by popular demand - the event for all dog lovers, dog handlers, and yes dog enthusiasts in general. The January “Splash Dog” event drew a huge crowd of Dog Lovers to our store in just two beautiful days; so if your dog is a jumper, loves the crowd, or just likes to hang out with the rest of the dogs, we hope to see you here for the 3 day event! Event will run Friday May 7th thru Sunday May 9th. Early sign ups recommended, daily times as follows: 9am to 5pm, (subject to change). Visit www.splashdogs.com to register. See you there...tons o' fun!!

Children’s Appreciation Day
Children's Appreciation Day!
April 15, 2010
1300 - 1700 at the Soccer Field
Activities, bouncer, games, face painting, and LOTS of fun!
Bring sunscreen and water.

Tanya Biank
Author of Army Wives, Tanya Biank, will be at Reggie’s on April 9th. 8 am- 4 pm
$20 for E-7 and above, $15 for E-6 and below (includes a complimentary meal).
Luncheon, workshops, and book signing
www.fortirwinocsc.org


Fort Carson, CO
5K Run by 4th ID & Fort Carson ACS and MWR
4th Infantry Division & Fort Carson ACS and MWR would like to invite you to a 5K Run held in observance of the Sexual Assault Awareness and Drug & Alcohol Prevention Month.
Date: 8 April (Thursday)
Time: 7:30-9:30 a.m.
Location: Fort Carson Iron Horse Park
No registration required. There will be free snack and drinks provided as well as giveaways for all participants.
Open to all DoD ID card holders
For more information call (719) 526-0912/4305

National Library Week with Prizes and Surprizes
The week of April 12-16 is National Library Week. The Fort Carson Library staff would like to encourage everyone to stop by the facility and sample all the great books, magazines, CDs and DVD, and take advantage of the free Wi-Fi or the computer lab. All visitors will be able to register for door prizes and gift certificates given away throughout the week. At lunchtime, a special surprise will be waiting for all visitors
Time: regular hours of operation for door prize registration, 11:30 a.m.- 1 p.m. for lunch time surprise
This program is free, no reservations required.
For more information call (719) 526-2350.


Poker Ride at Fort Carson’s Turkey Creek Ranch on April 17, May 22, June 19 & July 17:
Come out to the Ranch with your horse and enjoy a day of riding and playing with fellow riders, in search of the best poker hand!
You do not need to know how to play poker but you do need a horse! Participants will ride an easy 11-13 mile long loop, and stop at four locations to draw their cards. Once the route is completed the cards are tallied and the winner with the best poker hand is announced and awarded a prize.
Registration/Check-In: 8:30-9:30 p.m.
Registration Fee: $15 per rider- light lunch included
Ride Time: 10 a.m.
For more information call (719) 524-0897

Month of the Military Child Adventure Quest
April 24, 2010 at 12 pm.
All travelers must pick up a passport at McMahon Auditorium anytime after 12 pm.
Collect at least 3 stamps in your passport to enter to win prizes during the Final Quests. Then enjoy an afternoon of fun and adventure!
Six quests include: Climbing Wall, Indoor Swimming, Bowling, Special movie presentation at 1 pm and more!!!!!!
Final Quest begins at 5 pm – with roller skating, dinner, prizes, and more at the Special Events Center, Bldg. 1829 – all FREE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! (Bring your passport to win prizes)
**Must be 18 or younger to receive passport, but activities are open to families.
For more information call 719-526-1867

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April Post With The Most Winner: Fort Bragg

A FREE concert -
Chris Daughtry in concert at Ft. Bragg, April 11th. Concert starts at 7 p, at Main Post Parade Field. Free to military.


On April 22nd, Civilianjobs.com will host a job fair at Ft. Bragg. It is for those that are transitioning from active duty to civilian life, retirees, veterans, and spouses. Local and national employers will be there. For more info email Bethany Adams at badams@civilianjobs.com or call (678) 819-4170

Airborne Lanes Spring Break Special
April 5-9. Kids bowl for $1. Airborne Lanes. 432-6899.
MWR Auction
10 am. Bldg. 2-2814. Jackson St. 396-1024.

Fort Bragg Soldiers Night Out at the Yntema Club
April 16 4-7 PM

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Army Wife Life: April 5, 2010

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


Please leave your answers to the questions below by commenting on this post. Listen for Star and Tara's answers on Show 260: Week of April 5, 2010 using our AWTR Player in the right sidebar!

Excerpt blog post: On one hand, being a military spouse can be rough as you’re continuously having to find, vet, and connect with potential long-term buddies (long-term being the operative word). On the other, if you fail to properly vet or if you are rejected by the majority of the spouses or if you manage to offend the neighborhood block captain early on or if your children are atrociously mannered, you can always rely on the impending PCS as a restart and just lay low for the remaining time at your current location (online education, reading, cleaning the house, packing a bit early for the impending move, etc. are always available time-killing options).

You’re on your own concerning that block captain offense (hey! We don’t want to end up on the bad neighbor list with you!); and, we’re not much help when it comes to children behaving badly (we’re betting you’ll get to offer up between 8-10 bad child apologies - her dad’s deployed, mom is stressed out, the therapist is on vacation, etc.- before being booted from the bunko club). We do, however, have input per “un-friending” the improperly vetted new buddy.

Discussion Point 1: What is your friends to acquaintances ratio?

Discussion Point 2:Who do you add to your Facebook page – everyone that asks or are you selective?

Discussion Point 3:Are you guilty of unfriending someone and not telling them? (hiding posts? Checking out friends from high school and then deleting them?)

Discussion Point 4:What is the best place to make friends?

Discussion Point 5:Do you have any funny stories where you’ve met people?

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AWTR Show 260: Month of the Military Child

Presents Army Wife Talk Radio

Proudly sponsored by K12

AWTR Show 260: Week of April 5, 2010

This week on AWTR we’re featuring Linda Dennis from MonthoftheMilitaryChild.com! Resource of the Week, The Money Minute, AWTR Music, Army Wife Life, and AWTR Post with the Most!


Visit Army Wife Network and Loving A Soldier Blog

Click here to download the MP3

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Interactive time with kids while deployed

Well, I am always cruising the sites for new ways for kids and parents to connect ,and I found this one. I think I will try and see if my son in Germany can make this work with his two little ones. It is free for Military families and it seems (though I have not tried it yet) to allow a parent and child to either play a game or read a story. I read a post from a Military mom who says her husband reads the kids a bedtime story often while deployed! On the site it says that kids and parents set the time and then can talk in real-time to each other. I am not a computer whiz, so if anyone tries this, will you give some feedback? Thanks!

Here is the link: http://mychildmymilitary.com/

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Blog offers ways to cut costs

Just found a website you Mommies out there might want to take a look at. Written by a Military mom, and someone who likes a good deal. I don't know about you, but I love a deal, but not the time to look for it myself, so maybe this will help! Here's the link My Military Mommy - http://www.mymilitarymommy.com/

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Blessings of a Military Life

Hello All!

My name is Laura and I am a fellow seasoned Army Wife. I have long been a fan and supporter of AWN and LAS and feel honored to be a part of this encouraging atmosphere.

I want to inspire you, as I inspire myself, to look out for and be grateful for all of the Blessings in our Military lives. And to not only recognize and be thankful for our blessings, but to actively seek out ways to be a blessing to others. Let’s remember to speak only kind and respectful words to one another.

Look for ways to show kindness to fellow Military Wives. Pick up a few items at the Commissary for your neighbor. While you are out mowing your lawn, run it across theirs as well. Especially if her Husband is deployed. Hold the door open, be polite, cook a meal or take a gift for a new baby. The kindness you show to others in their time of need will come back to you in more blessings than you can hold.


We are a blend of new Wives and seasoned Wives. Enlisted Wives and Officer Wives. We have differences, yet we are the same. We all share the same struggles and triumphs in this wonderful Military Life. We are all smart, capable P-R-O-U-D, flag-waving Military Wives that have an opportunity to build each other up and help each other succeed. Dedicate yourself to creating positive and kind changes in our Community.

If you will help others in our Community succeed, God will make sure that you succeed. Plant seeds of kindness and thoughtfulness in your Military Family and let them spill over into our Communities, Posts and Bases.

I hope you will also check out our “Military Kindness and Blessings Campaign"at Blessingsofamilitarylife.blogspot.com.

In keeping with the encouraging spirit of AWN and LAS, I hope you use this positive resource to feel a "sense of belonging" to our great Military.

Sometimes a simple, warm smile as you are passing in the PX could make all the difference in another’s life. It may be the only smile they receive that day and the only bright spot amongst their Deployment worries.
Military Blessings!

Thought of Inspiration...
Be kind...it is hardly ever the wrong thing to do!

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