first National Anthem

Just the other day we taught our son what to do when he hears the National Anthem.

As my husband leaned in the doorway to our son’s bedroom, I sat on his race car bed with him and I asked him what Daddy told him to do when he heard the National Anthem. He told me that he would put his hand over his heart. He then asked us why and we explained to him that it was the song for our nation, the United States of America. We continued to explain to him that America is the country that we are from and Daddy fights for because in some countries kids don't have food, race car beds, freedom, or toys.

He seemed to understand as much as a 5yr could.

The next morning I downloaded the National Anthem and played it for him. He immediately put his hand over his heart, and like a loyal side kick, his sister stood next to him and did the same.

An hour later I found myself holding back tears at my husbands WLC graduation when our son not only stood proudly with his hand over his heart as that beautiful song filled the gym, but he switched his hands so that he was able to hold his little sister’s hand at the same time.

It was such a moment of pure connection of love and protectiveness between the two of then and that memory will forever be etched into my heart.

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AWTR Show 312: Army WIfe Network/AWTR Anniversary Celebration

Presents Army Wife Talk Radio

AWTR Show 312: Week of April 25, 2011

Join the AWN team this week on Army Wife Talk Radio for a celebration of their 6th Anniversary! This show will be chalked full of fun as we take a look back (and a look forward) at the roots that have led us to what we currently know as Army Wife Network. Learn more about the “man behind the microphone” our very own Al Ponalet – AWTR Announcer!

Resource of the Week: Army Wife Network Field Problems(tm)

We’ll see you in LIVE CHAT starting at 8pm Eastern.

Visit Army Wife Network and Loving A Soldier Blog
Click here to download the MP3

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It's Coming

So.....we 'just know' that the Big D (deployment, of course!) is coming. We don't have orders or even an alert yet - but we know it's coming. We've been through it before and we'll go through it again. This time is going to be SO different from the last one too. This will be DH's 3rd deployment - but our 2nd together. The last time he deployed, we were engaged - now we're married. His kids are both teenagers now. We own a house, have 2 puppies, and I've graduated from college and working full time now. Things are SO different. I know it's not going to be easier, but that it'll be different. I also know what I'll be doing differently this time.

First - I will take more time for me. I mean that I'm not going to let myself wallow as much. I won't complain as much. I will exercise and take care of ME. My step-kiddos don't live with us, so it'll be me and our doggies. They both need LOTS of exercise, which means I'll get lots of exercise. I plan to be even hotter than I am when my husband gets back. ;)

Second - I will save our money and not spend as much. Last time DH deployed, I did A LOT of retail therapy....... WAY TOO MUCH as a matter of fact. I put us in debt instead of getting us out. I would drink a few glasses of wine and then shop on the internet. I don't suggest this for anyone else.

Third - I won't complain to my DH as much, but rather keep encouraging him instead. Last time he deployed, I would get angry and write him lengthy emails where all I did was complain. I can't do that to him this time. I know that he doesn't need that distraction.

Fourth - I will gather my own support group of some kind with other Army wives. Last time, I surrounded myself with 1 other army wife. That didn't work out so well. This time, I have more army wife friends. I also have AWN! Woo Hoo! I did find AWN/AWTR towards the mid-end of the last deployment. It came at just the right time, because I was about to go insane.

These are just my lessons from the last deployment that I will take with me into our next one.

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Army Wife Life - Army Wife Network Video Contest Winner

Congratulations Adrienne McTague for yet ANOTHER great video!

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AWTR Show 311: Military Brats

Presents Army Wife Talk Radio

AWTR Show 311: Week of April 18, 2011

Join the AWN team this week on Army Wife Talk Radio for a conversation with Marc Curtis founder of Operation Footlocker. We’ll be discussing Military Brats and this interesting display of memorabilia.

Resource of the Week: SchoolQuest

We’ll see you in LIVE CHAT starting at 8pm Eastern.


Visit Army Wife Network and Loving A Soldier Blog Click here to download the MP3

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Pearls and Fine China

Pearls and Fine China might seem like odd advice for today's military spouse. But it's the core of the best advice I've ever gotten.

During my husband's first company command, we had a wonderful Battalion Coffee Group. Everyone was welcome at these very casual gatherings, sometimes lunches and sometimes dinners. Usually around food, women gathered to share stories, laugh and do a little venting. There was a fabulous variety in backgrounds and perspectives. A couple ladies worked outside the home, some were stay at home moms and a few were students. We were all dealing with the Army.

At one lunch, sitting around the table after eating, we were talking about the upcoming Easter holiday. As the youngest (and most recently married) spouse, I was looking forward to hosting my family for a holiday for the first time. I was especially excited to use the various wedding gifts of fine china, serving dishes and gorgeous Vera Wang silver.

One of the ladies turned to me and told me to "use that silver and china whenever you feel like it, and sometimes when you don't". She went on to explain that the one aspect of military life that you can count on is that you never know for sure what's around the corner. For the first several years of her marriage, her fine china and "sexy, night out clothes" were put away for a time when they had a chance to go out or have a big dinner party. Finding herself in a funk, she threw herself a dinner party while her soldier was away training. She made her favorite dinner, got dressed up, put on her favorite jewelry, and ate dinner by herself with her fine china and a favorite wine. As much as she laughed about it, she said it got her out of her funk. The other ladies smiled and laughed and agreed.

I didn't think much about it at the time. It was a fun afternoon and a lovely lunch. I didn't appreciate at  the time the value of the lesson those Army-wise ladies shared. There is so much uncertainty in our lives. Why wait for a special occasion to enjoy the things that make us feel good? For me, it's wearing the pearls my mom gave me. It's sitting down to a dinner served family style- even if it's just me and my toddler eating. It's candles around my home, even if they have to be strategically placed out of my toddler's monkey hands.

What gets put away for a special day in your home?

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How do you AWN?

Name: Janet McIntosh

Your soldier/family: I have been married to my soldier for 12 years and we have been on our Army Journey for 14 years. I met my soldier while I was active duty myself. I have a stepson, Zachary (12), and together we have two children, Alina (11) and Aiden (4). This year brought change with the addition of my parents who are now our dependents so life has had to adjust to say the least :). We also have a 4 year old Siberian Husky and a 2 year old English Bulldog, and a 1 year old dwarf hamster, JoJo.

Where you’re from: I am originally from Miami, Florida, and my husband is from Bad Axe, Michigan. We met while we were both active duty at Fort Hood, Texas.

Where you’re stationed: The Army has taken us to Fort Hood, Texas, Illesheim, Germany, Fort Eustis, VA, and now we are in the middle of a PCS to Tucker, GA right outside Atlanta, where my husband will now be recruiting.

Get to know me: My hobbies include scrapbooking (when I can find the time), I love to swim, watch my favorite tv shows, and I am a huge Twilight Mom and Disney Fanatic. I am a huge advocate for military spouses and have devoted my Army Wife Life to making things easier for other spouses. I do a TON of volunteer work with the Army. I have been a facilitator for AFAP and I teach AFTB classes regularly. My goal is to get my Master Instructor certificate and start a program within the recruiting offices for new spouses. I also sit on the board of the Fort Eustis Spouses Club, as secretary. I am currently attending college working towards finishing my Bachelor Degree in Elementary Education - I will be graduating May 2012. I also enjoy spending time with my family and we always try to do something once a week together, whether it be bowling, game night, or going for a walk.

Position at AWN: I was the Household 6 for 2010. I now work on the team helping out in whichever way I can. My main job at the moment is working with Star on the live Field Problems which we do in the AWN Toolbar Chatroom on Wednesdays at 9:00 am EST and Fridays at 2:00 pm EST. I also help answer field problem questions that come in from our website. I enjoy this very much because I like being able to help give army wives the answers they need. It feels amazing to be able to help! I also participate as a chat room moderator with Melanie during Army Wife Talk Radio on Monday nights at 8:00 pm EST, and I help moderate the AWN FaceBook Page.

When you started with AWN: I started with AWN in January 2010 as the Household 6 contest winner. I have been working with the team ever since :) and loving it!

Why/How you got involved: I got involved because I already loved Army Wife Network and this was a huge opportunity for me to be able to reach more spouses and really be able to make a difference in the lives of others.

Your favorite AWN moment: One of my favorite AWN moments was getting to go to my first Field Exercise at Fort Stewart, Georgia. This was the first time I was able to meet Tara and Star since winning the household 6 title and it was amazing to get to experience the exercise and see what a fabulous program Tara and Star had put together. It was awesome getting to see the faces of the spouses who attended and what a great time everyone had!!

Why do you think AWN is important to Army wives: I think Army Wife Network provides an enormous amount of resources to spouses. It empowers them to be able to make it through the hardest times and rejoice and share in the great times! It is a place where spouses can find support and information.

What do you do to participate in AWL outside of AWN: I volunteer constantly with ACS. I love being an AFTB instructor and I enjoyed working with the AFAP program. I am also currently working on a program for new spouses that begins in the recruiting office. This will also be a way for spouses of recruiters and even retired spouses to continue to give back by helping other spouses.

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THEN & NOW: An Army Wife Network timeline

In case you were wondering...there WILL be a quiz! To celebrate Army Wife Talk Radio/Army Wife Network's anniversary, we put together some "cliff notes." Pay attention fans. You may find out more than you ever wanted to know, but at least you'll get an "A" for Army Wife [talk radio and network] history.

Loving A Soldier Blog

THEN:
March 2005 - Tara Crooks debuts the Loving A Soldier blog

January 2007 – Loving A Soldier blog opens to interested bloggers from all walks of military life making it one of the first collaborative military family blogs

NOW:
That first blog post is still accessible from the archives. Tara hits the nail on the head and predicts, "I think that this could be a VERY interesting blog!" It has been and will be. It continues to grow and change, now offering perspective and stories from more than a dozen military wives and families members.

Here is one of the first pictures posted to Loving A Soldier! It's Tara's daughter in a Halloween costume back in 2005. But she is a duck--more than appropriate for spring-- so I thought I'd share it again.



Happy Spring! And Happy Anniversary Army Wife Network!

The blog's tagline is "Loving A Soldier | Living the Life.
An early blog post sums it up very well by saying, "If you're not in love with a soldier, you can't truly understand how to make every moment count...". Still to this day, that's what Loving A Soldier blog is all about: sharing those memories we have as military families and "making them count."

Army Wife Talk Radio

THEN:
April 2005 – Army Wife Talk Radio debuts as the original internet talk radio program for military wives

October 2006 – Army Wife Talk Radio changes platforms from recorded podcast to live talk radio using new technology from Blog Talk Radio



...the signature "AWTR" microphone,
that looks nothing like what Tara uses


NOW:
Lovingly nicknamed "the Tara Crooks" show, the original internet talk radio program was a 30 minute, recorded-then-uploaded podcast of the personal, military wife saga that was Tara's life. It was almost the Loving A Soldier blog translated to on-air. Now, it's a 90 minute live show with many moving parts. In the six years since broadcasting there have been over 300 weekly shows. Do the math--we hardly ever miss a Monday. We talk about travel, romance, money and more.

"This is NOT your grandma's Army!" We focus on Our Life. Our Family. Our Soldier. If you listened to two archived shows a week, it would take you about three years to learn all you could learn about Army Wife Talk Radio (then & now)!


From Crooks & Henderson to Army Wife Network (AWN)

THEN:

April 2006 – Star Henderson joins forces with Army Wife Talk Radio founder, Tara Crooks

June 2006– Crooks & Henderson publish and self-syndicate the military Q&A column, Field Problems™

May 2007 – Crooks and Henderson debut their Spouse Field Exercise™: Priceless Packages at Fort Stewart, GA to a full house of 100 spouses

NOW:
April 2009 – Crooks & Henderson cofound Army Wife Network and begins building their core volunteer team

One of the main reasons, (Star) Henderson was brought on as a business partner was to do the newsletters. They've been under Star's purview ever since. Latar on, Tara and Star agreed to collaborate on a self-syndicated Q&A column titled Field Problems™, which is a feature in the current (customizable) newsletters each month. Those Field Problems™ leapt from the page into a real-live seminar series called  Field Exercises™ in May 2007 for Military Spouse Appreciation Day that year.

Newsletters, then in April 2006 (left) and now in April 2011 (right)

There is a time period called "in-between then and now" that is mostly covered on the blog in the years covering 2007 till present. The most notable event in recent history is when Crooks & Henderson decided to bring the web sites ArmyWifeTalkRadio and Field Problems™ under one roof to ArmyWifeNetwork.com.

Their Mission statement goes a little something like this:
AWN is a collective group of new and seasoned Army wives and military community members on a mission to empower the journeys of those who follow. We will do this by providing relevant resources and information, networking (in person and online) opportunities, and expert advice.

April, 2009 – Army Wife Network debuts the AWN Twitter page

May, 2009 – Army Wife Network debuts the AWN Facebook fan page

January 2011 – Army Wife Network’s Facebook fan page reaches 25,000 fans

In person, we reach military spouses through our Field Exercise™ seminar series. Online we reach military spouses through social media tools galore. Today our facebook fans are 28,000+ and we hope they reach to 30,000 by the end of this (anniversary) month. This is a long, long way from the first 30+ fans of the Tara Crooks' show. We've had a great crew called our AWN core team who have helped us grow fast and far.

A very popular interview question about Army Wife Network is, "What's next?"

Only time will tell. "Bigger and better: More of what we're doing now!" is the most common response.
And if that's what you answer, should a real quiz about Army Wife Network ever come due, then you'll make an "A" in our book.

More networking, more loving our soldier, more fans, and more talking on the radio. We're glad you're here and hope you'll invite all your fans and friends to join us and celebrate next week (for our anniversary show) and every week thereafter.

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Are you my Daddy?

Wow, it is only mid-month and April 2011 has been etched into my memory already for several reasons: many know of the uproar about the threat our military members not getting paid and the vast Internet buzz surrounding that, the whole federal budget deal, Donald Trump, and most of all --Month of the Military Child. Ever since I married my husband and had our first child, I have always participated in the celebration of the Military Child.

Even before this decade-plus war had started, it was an important celebration for me. I believe our children are our future for this great country of ours to succeed and prosper... It saddens me greatly that much of the world has looked at children (in recent years as a bad investment) but I think otherwise!!

Children are a great blessing!! We have four boys who, at times, drive me crazy, but I love them to 'infinity and beyond.' They are my life, aside from God and my dear husband. We make choices for our children, like what school they should attend, what they eat, wear, buy... Raise them to be role models and positive outlook on our country, instill our beliefs as to what makes a society better.

As I look at the Month of the Military Child, I see a very small fraction of children that are in a unique situation. A special category of children that are forever in my heart, because I have them in my life. I have great joy in knowing these little persons who, like us, deal with very grown up situations.


I remember thinking way back with our first child...traveling from Ft. Lewis, WA to Wuerzburg, Germany. What I was thinking was that in all my adults years, this child has travel more than I have as an adult. LOL!! The great privilege of traveling, seeing much of the world with their parents, having a better understanding of the world around them, that they are able to adapt and achieve success no matter the hardships or bumps in the road. They are truly an amazing group of people!

Going through this deployment, I see how my children are away from their father for such a long amount of time. It breaks my heart some days when I hear a comment or when my 2 year old follow some random man and calling him, "Daddy?" "Daddy?" --makes me know that they miss their daddy and that they too---make sacrifices during this time of war. I pray daily for the safety of our men & women in the United States Armed Forces and especially for the Battalion that my husband is currently with.

During this time, I know and make a special effort in knowing and celebrating our Military Children. They have earned it and certainly deserve it.

Just yesterday, our Battalion, had a wonderful Easter/ Half-Way Celebration. I know all the children enjoyed it and I hope that they will be in good spirits until the end of this deployment. I am also excited for my teen, who will be performing at our local Kinderfest coming up in our small (overseas) community. It's such a great feeling to be apart of a small community that puts forth the effort to stay together in a time of need. I am so glad for the Schweinfurt community during this deployment. It's definitely my home (well until 'we' receive PCS orders).[Smiling]

Here I leave a couple of photos from the event and I hope you, in some way, are able to join with me in celebrating the Month of the Military Child. What is your community doing for the Month of the Military Child?

Thank you for Sharing,

Jessica S.

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How do YOU AWN? (Team Member Profile: Starlett Henderson)

Name: Starlett Henderson aka "Star"

Your soldier/family: David Henderson is "my soldier." He and I have two children: Thomas (14) and Tara (7). They're spread in age because of deployments and the uncertainty of military life, but they are also stronger and closer than many people I know. The same could be said for David and me.

Where you’re from: I'm from upper Michigan. Not just me, but David is too. We met in high school, we dated and married in college (also in upper Michigan), and we had our son before leaving Michigan to set on our military journey. That journey planted us in Georgia for the last 14 years, so we're sort of from there too.  Our daughter is definitely from Georgia--a Southern belle.

Where you’re stationed: David is assigned to the National Guard Readiness Center in Arlington, which is subset to the national capital region (NCR).

Get to know me: Funny story: we just moved to the NCR last fall expecting to get Thomas through highschool, but Army (and God) had other plans, and we're in the planning stages of our next PCS to Fort Leonard Wood, MO. That's where David went to basic training. It's where he was when we cemented our friendship and future serious relationship through letter writing, over 20 years ago. In the past 20 years, we both have served in the military and have done our own deployments. It's been a wonderful history of shared experiences. But that's about us--you asked about me.

I'll try to divulge little known facts that can't already be searched on the Internet. LOL
I recently turned 37. An AWN teammate asked me what my favorite birthday treat is: it's the traditional cake and ice cream. Everything is better with whip cream and chocolate sauce of course, but I have to at least have both cake and ice cream. Recently we decided to trim down and everyone has been celebrating with ice cream cakes. Win-win.

I love to read and I prefer non-fiction or fiction that teaches something, either historical or maybe something about myself. I love to people watch, analyze anything, and dote on my family. To dote on my family though doesn't mean to buy them new clothes or video games...I love giving them lessons or experiences...
sometimes these are logistical feats and they'd much rather get the new shoes instead of drive four hours to see a Cabbage Patch baby born or the Blue Angels for the fourth time.

But sometimes it pays off. Actually, this desire to collect experiences is what caused us to sign up for the chance to "try DC." What could have turned out to be a bitter logistical nightmare memory--for a less than 1 year stay in the NCR--was recently described by my son as "a really cool extended family summer camp." And that made my heart smile.

Position at AWN: With Tara, my position at AWN is officially titled "Cofounder". I am the yin to her yang. She's "lipstick 6" and I'm the XO. This "Extra Officer's" duties include co-hosting Army Wife Talk Radio, vetting resources and books for shows and columns on our main site, and also selecting the featured blogs.

I also perform a lot of those logistical feats (perfected in managing my family) by helping plan and execute our Field Exercise™ conference series . I'm the introvert, so speaking is not my first avenue of approach in reaching out to military wives, but it has been a rewarding and learning experience.

When you started with AWN: It quite possibly could have been 5 years ago to the minute. It's 2AM now; I think it was 2AM then. I was searching for some military spouse company and support. I recently had gotten out of the Army and my husband was deployed. I didn't know how to do Army Wife Life and was unfamiliar with classes such as AFTB or new-spouse orientation. It was 2AM on yet another lonely night waiting for my husband to appear on yahoo, so I googled army wife support or something similar. Army Wife Talk Radio was one of the results. Tara had a blog, so I contacted her to find a book list that would tell me how to live the best Army Wife Life I could. It didn't exist. She tasked me to make one, and the rest is history.

Why/How you got involved: I got involved because I thought that "podcasting" was cutting edge, and in my mind Tara was a smart cookie for thinking of doing a show for "us wives." On the podcasts, she talked about things that I was going through and helped connect me with others who were too. I recently had decided that even if I had left the Army, supporting the Army was still how I wanted to spend my time. Getting involved was a way of giving back in areas I was strong in, while gaining support and "therapy" in areas in which I was still very weak.

Your favorite AWN moment: My favorite moment is when spouses (who are hopefully fans) write about how we've helped them: how we've encouraged or empowered them. The first one that I remember as an "aha" moment where I knew we were making a difference was sent in by Rosie:

I reached out, asked for help and, to my heart’s surprise, I received not only the guidance I prayed for but I received it in such a nice, truly caring and concerned manner it has just made my soul smile. Again, THANK YOU so very MUCH.          Rosie- New Army Wife, Redlands CA

Why do you think AWN is important to Army wives: Tara said it all. It connects spouses who want to know they are normal and they are not alone. These things are true, but sometimes one must hear it from 25,000 others and see it in the faces of other spouses who have been there, done that, and got the t-shirt.
Not just sometimes, but most times actually.

What do you do to participate in AWL outside of AWN: I may be atypical in my answer here. I do volunteer, but much of that time is given to my church and children's schools. So, as far as AWL, there are two fronts I'm doing battle on. One is AWN--it's the mode of helping military families that I'm most equipped for and excited about. The other is my family. First and foremost, I am Army Wife to David Henderson. Him and our kids are my life. I work hard to make sure that AWL is good. And it is. So good.

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How I AWN!!!!

This is the all about me blog you’ve all been waiting for!
Name: Nikki Ackles

Your soldier/family: Eric is the Chief Executive Officer of this Army family (while I, of course, am the Chief operating Officer). We married in 1999 (the courthouse), but had our huge Church wedding in July of 2000. We made the decision together for Eric to “join up” following September 11. We have three beautiful little ladies, Allana is 10, Angelina is 7 and Abecca (Abbi) is 3!

Where you’re from: I still call Detroit my “hometown” although I moved to Florida when I was 3. I think it sounds cooler. Eric is a true Floridian (as in, his family has been there since dirt was invented). We met at the University of South Florida when I moved in with him as a roommate… long story, I’ll explain later.

Where you’re stationed: We call Fort Stewart “home” for the next two years or so. In our military journey, we have been assigned to Keesler Air Force Base, Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Fort Bliss, and Fort Sill… in just under 9 years, we have lived in 10 homes!!!! Thank you Community Housing Initiative.

Get to know me: I am really an “all over the place” kind of gal. If I am not busy, then I am not me. My passion’s lie in Politics, History and writing… and when I say I am passionate about them, it’s serious. I spend my day’s taking care of the kiddos, working with our FRG, and of course Army Wife Network. I love, love, love to travel and see new places; but the most fun is driving all over and exploring our amazingly beautiful nation. I love to write, but I am so busy lately, I rarely find the time to do much of it. Currrently, a LOT of my time is spent preparing for our Crazyhorse soldiers to return to Fort Stewart!

Position at AWN: I am Nikki News 6… Basically, I dig through all of the DOD and DOA news and pick out the stories that I think will be most beneficial to the Army Wife. I also contribute to Post With the Most which I love because it gives me the chance to interact with people from all over the place at each installation, and I get to learn all sorts of new and exciting stuff about new post’s.
When you started with AWN: I started with AWN in April of 2010… I had met Tara at Fort Sill and knew that this was something I had to be a part of; it has been one of the most rewarding volunteer positions yet!

Why/How you got involved: After moving to Fort Stewart last January from Fort Sill, I was fortunate to get a spot at the field exercise in April. Like I said earlier, I was lucky to have gotten to know Tara at Sill, so it was a no brainer that I would volunteer to help set up for the FP. During that time, and after meeting Star, I knew that I really wanted to be a part of this… and the rest, they say, is history.

Your favorite AWN moment: Even though I was unable to attend the Army 10 miler, I would have to say that was. Seeing the pictures of the crew completing that journey together was amazing! Such a great team we have!!!

Why do you think AWN is important to Army wives: I love, love, LOVE that AWN gives the wives (and hubbies too) a positive place to stay connected and in the loop. We offer such awesome information in such a fun environment, and it’s so cool that through AWN so many people have been connected to other’s in the same position all over the world!

What do you do to participate in AWL outside of AWN: Basically, I stay busy with the umpteen things the kiddos have going on. I do volunteer all the time; sometimes it begins to feel compulsive… I love it though. I also spend a ton of time with my friends. I think it so important to take some time for me and just relax. There are some days when we start at the coffee shop, end up at lunch, pick the kids up and end up doing dinner together too… and that, my friends, is the only good thing about deployments ;)

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How Do You AWN?

Your soldier/family: My husband, Matthew, and I met almost 6 years ago while both of us were serving in the Army. Several years and a deployment later, we got married (our 2nd anniversary is less than a month away!). When we got married, I 'inherited" two step-kiddos, Andrew (15) and Abigail (12). We also have a 2 year old Australian Cattle Dog, Harry, and as of Sunday, a 1 year old Cattle Dog Mix, Lizzy.

Where you’re from: I grew up in a small town in PA called Tunkhannock (I'd love to hear you pronounce it..... :D ), but I moved to Cincinnati, OH about 10 years ago. Matthew is a Cincinnati native. After living here for a few years, I decided to join the Army Reserve - and that's where I met Matt. I've done 1 year in the IRR and have just 1 more to go.

Where you’re stationed: We are a reserve family living in Cincinnati, but my husband's unit is actually in Northern Kentucky.

Get to know me: Well, I'm a very busy person. I literally walked into my house about 20 minutes ago and am typing this at 10:45 pm. I'm a music teacher at a local elementary school, I sing with the Cincinnati May Festival Chorus, I just finished being an assistant vocal director of a high school musical, I am now cantering at a local church, etc. Basically, I like to sing (and I'm really good at it - just a FYI). Aside from singing and music in general, I LOVE to read, scrapbook, sew, knit, watch The Biggest Loser, Psych, Army Wives, and Grey's Anatomy. I am also an awesome cook and baker. I like to spend time at the zoo on pretty days, and also spend time with my husband and kiddos, as well as my friends. I actually do enjoy working out - I'm going to run the Army Ten Miler again this year. In all honesty, there isn't much that I don't like to do. I'm 5 foot tall and have a HUGE personality to go with my little frame! :)

Position at AWN: My position at AWN is the Mess Hall GURU. I try out new recipes and write about them. As I said before, I'm an AWESOME cook, so this is an awesome role for me with the AWN team.

When you started with AWN: When my husband was deployed in 07-08, I was feeling really blue. I was on iTunes searching for the TV show, Army Wives, when I found a podcast for Army Wife Talk Radio. I listened in, thinking it was a podcast for a show on some Army post somewhere. I listened to a few more of the podcasts, and then I started listening to the live show. I started chatting it up in the chat room during the live show and made some awesome internet Army Wife friends. I've been around ever since. I guess I 'really started' the spring/summer of 08. I started calling in recipes during the show, as a listener. I started participating in contests, etc. Tara asked me (and I don't know if she remembers this) to start thinking about working the Mess Hall section that summer, but then I left to study in Europe for the summer. The fall of 08, they gave me the position of Post with the Most, and since then I've had a couple others.

Why/How you got involved:
I got involved because I LOVE what AWN is all about. I was UBER excited when they asked me to be part of the team. It's pretty awesome, I won't lie.



Your favorite AWN moment: I have to say that when I met the AWN team at the first Fort Campbell FE in December 08. It was SO awesome to finally meet the women whom I had become friends with and emailed for quite awhile. Then, on my honeymoon, I actually got to meet up and hang out with Star and another friend for an evening. That was pretty awesome. I also have to say running the Army Ten Miler with this incredible team of women!

What you think AWN is important to Army wives: The resources that AWN provides is amazing! I can't name the number of times that I've recommended or referred to a resource on AWN. Not only that, but AWN is kind of like a support group, in a sense. I was in a very dark place when I discovered AWTR/AWN and they pulled me out of it. Just having other spouses to talk to who know what it's like to love a soldier and live the life of an army wife is incredible.

What do you do to participate in AWL outside of AWN: I am the secretary of our FRG, as well as the Newsletter writer/editor. This is where I really get to use my AWN resources most! I do volunteer a lot. I try to help out wherever I can. Right now, I have a student whose mom is deployed, and so I feel like I'm so blessed to be his teacher, because I can relate. I also hang out a lot with our own Melanie! Besides all that, I'm VERY proud to be an Army wife, and I'm very proud of my soldier and all of his accomplishments within the Army.

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AWTR Show 310: Building Resiliency in Children

Presents Army Wife Talk Radio

AWTR Show 310: Week of April 11, 2011

Join the AWN team this week on Army Wife Talk Radio for a conversation with Ingrid Torres-McCullough of the American Red Cross on the topic of building resiliency in military children.

Resource of the Week: The Green Plate

We’ll see you in LIVE CHAT starting at 8pm Eastern.

Visit Army Wife Network and Loving A Soldier Blog
Click here to download the MP3

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How Do YOU AWN?

Name: Melanie Kish



Your soldier/family: Almost 8 years ago I met my soul mate, my best friend, and the love of my life, Nathan. We will soon be celebrating our 3rd wedding anniversary. I have become a master wedding planner after planning and cancelling 3 weddings due to multiple deployment extensions, however, it was such a great eye opener in the grand scheme of things to really prepare me for some of the rollercoasters the Army takes us on! I wouldn't have changed it for the world.


Where you’re from: I am from a small town in North East Ohio, and Nathan is from an even smaller town! He grew up very rural and I lived more the suburb style life. We were lucky enough to meet during my Junior Year of college at a mutual friends 21st birthday...so yes, technically, we met at a bar. Nathan was such a gentleman and had me laughing the entire night...little did I know he'd have me laughing my entire life.


Where you’re stationed: We have seen many regions of this wonderful country in our short 7.5 years of military life. Though there are some we like more then others, we are currently living in Dayton, Ohio fulfilling an ROTC cadre position. It was such a blessing that just fell right in our laps, and I think this is the most wonderful place. I miss being around the posts and the Army family that you so quickly make upon arriving at new places, but this is a totally new experience for us and a great change of pace for the time being. As you know, sometimes you just need to change it up a little bit so you can gain your strength back to keep on trucking!


Get to know me: Wow. I feel as though my hobbies change depending on where in the country I live. Out West, I was very into scrapbooking- sometimes it appears as though the living room has exploded with stickers and cut outs. I am slowly learning to sew and can make a mean curtain and draft dodger. (Lol!) Both my husband and I absolutely love to travel and get out as much as possible to explore where we live. Now that I am not afraid of running into mean critters like rattlesnakes and scorpions, I have enjoyed getting back outside on my bike and doing lots of hiking. I am normally an elementary school teacher, though moving mid year has me working as a sub right now, and loving every second of it. I typically am very involved with military life and volunteering and being away from that bums me out, but I am sure it will be ready and waiting when its time to return! Country is my absolute favorite, and I get to as many concerts as possible. My family is my favorite thing of all in life. I wouldn't be who I am today without them and am so thankful for each and every experience in life I have had with them. I try to see them as much as possible and am on the phone with them almost daily. I feel as though they have raised me with the strength to endure the hardships in life, and I struggle to remember to tell them that as much as I should. Not to mention, I have some pretty awesome in laws as well.


Position at AWN: I am the face behind the AWN Book Club. That is pretty neat for me. I find myself reading so much and now I get to share it all with you. I am honest, sometimes a little to much, but I love seeing people join me in the reads and share their opinions as well. I can also be found every Monday night in the chat room....and if you know me, chatting is not one of my weak points. I could probably talk to a wall if I had to. I love to talk and learn about people. I also help out on the Facebook page, which is awesome, because it gives me an "excuse" to be on Facebook more often then I probably should be!



When you started with AWN: I was lucky enough to meet Tara Crooks when we were stationed our 2nd time at Fort Sill. Kevin was Nathans instructor at the CCC. Wait. Scratch that. Technically, I met Tara when we live at Fort Bragg and I went to a Field Excersize during deployment #2. See, if you meet me....watch out. I have a crazy way of sneaking back into your life without even trying!

Why/How you got involved: I became friends with Tara as we began putting together fun get togethers for the families and then poof. It was over and we had to move away. I was in DC at a conference in Oct '09 when I did an interview on AWN during the "real Army Wives" month and it was all awesome from then on. I loved it so much and was thrilled when I was invited to be a part of the official team. I can't believe I am coming up on my 2 year anniversary with them. Time flies when you are having fun! :)




Your favorite AWN moment: Hmm. There are quite a few. I think I'd go with being out at Bliss and sporting my awesome pink AWN shirt and being called out for it in the PX. I have my name on the back and a woman actually knew who I was and stopped to chat. I know there are so many people that listen and participate but actually feeling it "in the flesh" was pretty amazing for me and I have never felt more awesome to be part of such an amazing team of women. (Plus, I really enjoyed the podcast of the interview "Roxie" from Army Wives. Hearing her on the phone with the woman she actually portrayed and how flustered and happy she was to actually talk to her was pretty awesome for me.)



Why do you think AWN is important to Army wives: There is nothing more important in this life then a battle buddy to go thru it with....even if it's to make you feel like you are not crazy when you can absolutely swear you are. Knowing the resources we have out there, and how much people depend on our site for questions and confirmation is amazing. Hearing things like yesterday when someone posted on facebook that during this entire "shutdown" mess we were one of the only sites they would depend on because they knew we would be on the mark and only post proper info was wonderful. It is a place where you can go- where we might not know you personally, but we all sure have been there done that at some time or other in our lives and we can all hold each others virtual hands and walk thru it together. There is no I in Army.


What do you do to participate in AWL outside of AWN: I volunteer...ALOT....and I do a lot of subbing around the area as I paruse for town for full time teaching jobs. I also have gotten involved with the OSA on an AFB near by to keep connected to my fellow Military Wives.

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How do you AWN?

Name: Kristen Smith

Your soldier/family: This southern girl ended up married to New Yorker, my husband Kevin. We have a 20 month little monkey, Garrett Michael who alternately delights and tortures me (depends on the day...or hour!) We also have 3 year old Bullmastiff, Bella, and miniature Australian Shepard, Mozart. Oh, and the horse, an off the track Thoroughbred named Yeager. .......yup, it's a zoo around here.

Where you’re from: I grew up outside Charleston, SC. :) One of the most beautiful places on earth.



Where you’re stationed: We are enjoying Ft Campbell, KY until this summer.

Get to know me: hmmmm.....As a kid, I read my way (alphabetically) through the Charleston AFB library. I made it all the way through the kids section and to somewhere in the S's before my other activities and interested distracted me. Not so secretly, I wanted to be a professional rider/trainer when I grew up....and I did it for a while. Even was pretty successful. Then I met my soldier, and found that dreams can change :) But, I still spend a significant amount of time training, spoiling, and spending time with my own horse.

Position at AWN: I came onto the team as the 2011 Household 6, and also help out with the blog.

When you started with AWN: Last October when they held the vote for 2011 HH6.

Why/How you got involved: I thought the HH6 opportunity was such a neat way to contribute to the Army Wife community.

Your favorite AWN moment: Probably meeting Tara, and Star at the Fort Campbell Field Ex the weekend before the hh6 interviews. I really wanted to be a part of the amazing things I saw.

Why do you think AWN is important to Army wives: There is so much "sort of" information out there for Army spouses. Not quite accurate, lots of "I heard". It's amazing to have a place led by committed, ethical, experienced spouses.

What do you do to participate in AWL outside of AWN: I'm another professional Army Volunteer. FRG, AFTB, and I teach some classes. My favorite current volunteer activity is as an OpLove photographer (another hobby of mine...remember that whole reading through the library thing? Now, I do the same thing with hobbies).

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USAA Is Prepared to Help Members Affected by a Government Shutdown

We continue to hope a government shutdown will be averted. USAA is committed to being there for our members when they need us the most.


USAA stands ready to help federal government employees who might face financial challenges from missed federal pay as a result of the shutdown, and we are prepared to discuss possible options to help them protect their financial security. Some options include payment deferrals, flexible payment arrangements, term modifications and fee waivers. As always, USAA members can sign up for free overdraft protection at any time.

Affected members can contact USAA at 1-800-531-USAA (8722) to discuss which options might be available.

In the meantime, we understand that some companies may be promoting special offers relating to the shutdown, and we caution our members and all consumers to be careful. As consumers make decisions, we suggest they consider the following:

• Do you trust and have a relationship with the company?

• What are the long-term and short-term costs?

• Do you understand the restrictions or "fine print" related to the offer?

Consumers also can refer to these articles on usaa.com: “7 Strategies for Getting by Without a Paycheck” and ”12 Common Scams that Threaten your Wallet.”

We value all the feedback and questions we are receiving from our members, and we will continue to work with our members to help them through this potential crisis.

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How Do YOU AWN?

Name: Tara Crooks


Your soldier/family: I am lucky to be married to my best friend, Kevin Crooks. We have two beautiful daughters Wrena (9) and Chloe (3). We also are parents to two incredibly rotten dogs; Bobby Joe (German short-haired Pointer) and Ellie May (Australian Cattle Dog) as well as our 15 year old cat, Oscar (Black Domestic Shorthair).

Where you’re from: I am originally from Nixa, Missouri and Kevin is from Springfield, Missouri. We met at Village Inn where we both worked in high school. I was a waitress/hostess and he was a bus boy. He annoyed me and was constantly pestering. One day he made a comment about his girlfriend and I said "you have a girlfriend?" and he responded, "that depends." The rest is history.

Where you’re stationed: We are currently stationed at Fort Sill, Oklahoma (yes, Field Artillery!). We have been stationed at Fort Hood and also Fort Stewart.

Get to know me: My hobbies are usually internet related. I spend an exhorbant amount of time networking. I am a people person. I love to laugh. I like to do craft projects, refinishing furniture, decorating. I volunteer alot for military related things - usually some form of instruction. A "typical" day (if there is such a thing) in my life starts with taking the girls to school followed by a trip to Zumba or a walk at the track. Then I come home to my home office to work for awhile and get my "ducks in a row", shower, and work again. I head back to pick up my girls from school and start the "mommy routine" of homework, chores, dinner, etc. I typically choose to relax by reading a magazine or watching television from 9 to 11pm or so. Of course, changes in the schedule come along when I travel or when I am doing some sort of volunteer work.

Position at AWN: My position at AWN is officially titled "Cofounder" but I am usually the girl that gets all the emails, moderates Facebook, sends crazy ideas to Star Henderson, and tirelessly networks as the face of AWN so that we can garner support for our programs. Well, except for Monday nights when you can find me cohosting the show with my "stalker" er, I mean, battle buddy. Ya.

When you started with AWN: Who writes these questions? Oh wait, I did. Ok, then I better answer. I started with AWN before AWN started. Is that physically possible? LMBO! Ok really, I founded our radio show (podcast) Army Wife Talk Radio back in 2005 during my husband's deployment. It's been a wild ride since then!

Why/How you got involved: I got involved because it was something to do. I thought podcasting was neat so I thought I'd try it. All of AWN and AWTR was a complete accident. That's what makes it so cool. I had NO IDEA (still don't most days) that this would be what it is today and/or that I would be doing what I am doing.

Your favorite AWN moment: This is a loaded question. I have ALOT of memorable moments. But my favorite was the FIRST Field Exercise(tm) we ever did at Fort Stewart. I stood in the back of the room with Star Henderson and said "Do you see their faces? WE DID THIS!" That was the moment I knew we were on to something.

Of course there are many more - like when Mike Kelly from USAA said "yes", when Star first emailed me about the booklist, when we did that interview with Rabi Schmuley, when Lifetime Army Wives guest didn't show up and we were in Fort Hood, TX with no back up plan for the show broadcasting from a hotel (man that was hilarious now but NOT SO MUCH then!!), when we ran the Army 10 Miler and crossed the finish line, when our volunteer team grew to an actual TEAM and we welcomed our first and then second AWN HH6 to our team, when I was interviewed by Sheppard Smith or called "Oprah of the Armed Forces" by Katie Couric, when I traveled to San Diego with my daughter for Spouse Buzz on the dime of USAA and she got to go with me, when my friend Tina Flatebo nearly freaked at Fort Bragg, NC Field Exercise(tm) because I had worked all day with USAA's Bob Hall and didn't know he was retired COMMAND SGT MAJOR of the ARMY Robert Hall until she said "is that THE ROBERT HALL?" and I said, "Ya, you know Bob from USAA?", when I traveled to the American Legion Auxillary to be their "Woman of the Year" in 2008, man...there are so many good ones....I"ll never list them all!

Why do you think AWN is important to Army wives: It gives us a way to connect and a place to communicate. But, I think more than anything it validates us to feel like we're normal.

What do you do to participate in AWL outside of AWN: I volunteer...ALOT....usually I do instruction of some sort based on what I do here at AWN. I also enjoy helping out my FRG.

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Advice for the Newcomers

I can’t believe I have just a little less than three months until I will finally be married. Over the past weeks, I have been stressing out on finishing up the school semester workloads and trying to finalize all the small details such as creating names for our tables, deciding exactly the candy I want, and decorations for the table. All of a sudden it dawned on me that I have no idea what it takes to be an Army Wife.
By the time we marry, go on our honeymoon, and return to his duty station, I have one month before returning to school to change my name, address, bank accounts and finally meet the families of other soldiers he works with. Did I mention that exactly two days after getting back to our duty station he will be promoted too and we will be moving into a new home? I am so nervous about meeting families and wonder will they like me? Also, I have heard that there will be some running around the base to get an identification card and figuring out new doctors and dentists. So to all the ladies out there, I was wondering for myself and others what are your suggestions and knowledge relating to becoming a new Army Wife?

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AWN April Newsletter

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 HERE!

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 regions 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.Welcome to April Army Wives!April is the Month of the Military Child.

This special celebration is the 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 nearly 2 million children across the world are connected to the U.S. military. Military children are a special breed. They're faced with circumstances that civilian kids may 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 and crafts, lesson plans, and activities that will be fun for the whole family. Download the AWN Children's Book List and go for a trip to the library (or shop the AWN Bookstore).

Here are a few of my 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 celebrate this month in your local community or at an installation check out the tons of resources available online for military families:

• Operation Military Kids
• Military Youth on the Move
• Our Military Kids 
• Deployment Kids

• Operation Purple Camps

• Zero to Three

• Talk, Listen, Connect (TLC) DVD from Sesame Street

• Flat Daddy (make your own - too cool!)

• Operation Hug A Hero 

• Operation Give A Hug

Don't forget that there are resources all around you when you're in need of a hand.

Contact your installation's Army Community Service (other services have similar resources) and check out their Family Advocacy Programs that include EFMP (Exceptional Family Member Program), New Parent Support, and Parenting classes galore.


We have a wonderful line up of guests and information ready for you on our radio show this month. Join us at 8pm EST every Monday night! We will continue to bring you expert advice columns, care package ideas, newbie resources, Field Problems(TM) answers, and up to date military related information through all of our outlets. So be sure to stop by the main page, the blog, as well as the Facebook page this week and check it out!


Your Lipstick 6,
Tara Crooks

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AWTR Show 209: DrugFree.org - Month of the Military Child

Presents Army Wife Talk Radio

AWTR Show 309: Week of April 4, 2011

Join the AWN team this week on Army Wife Talk Radio for a conversation with DrugFree.org. We’ll be kicking off our series of interviews with resources for military children in celebration of Month of the Military Child.

Resource of the Week: Veteran’s Airlift

We’ll see you in LIVE CHAT starting at 8pm Eastern.


Visit Army Wife Network and Loving A Soldier Blog
Click here to download the MP3

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AWN Book Club Review Chicken Soup for the Military Wifes Soul

I must say, this book took me awhile to actually read every story. For some reason, the first section that I jumped to was the teariest one called "An Officer at the Door" something we all think about and dread happening to ourselves or anyone we know or care about. I cried my way thru most of those passages and took a break. I admit, it was a tough one for me to finish in a full read thru. While the stories are all wonderful in their own way- I think this is the type of book you keep on hand to pick up during specific situations or times in your life. Not all of the book will apply to you at the same time, however, at one point or another you might experience many of the things these families did- good or bad. It is something good to have on hand- you won't find resources in it but you will find close to the heart stories that will help you stand back up on what feels like "one of those days". It really opened my eyes to what to be thankful for in life, no matter how stinky my day may seem there is always someone out there that has something more serious going on. I'd say if someone in your friend circle has this one already, you are good to go. Just borrow it when needed and pass along...and try to keep the tear staining of pages to a minimum. :) Or grab it from Amazon here- since it is just a great price.

On a lighter note- I really enjoyed the comic pieces scattered around the entire book.

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Operation Military Child Celebration

Operation: Military Child Celebration

© Tara Crooks

Military children are heroes. They are the most interesting, resilient, and resourceful creatures. In a military child’s world their hero, their king or queen, is their soldier. And part of being a military child is living the journey of that service. This April, the “Month of the Military Child”, they definitely deserve a celebration fit for…a soldier! That’s right, a soldier. Lace up your boots Private, because you’re about to read over an operational order creating a celebration for military children that could only be described as ….HOOAH!

Setup

Decorations – Scour the internet and print out Army things such as tanks, medals, etc. You can also purchase pre-printed Army décor at your local party store. Don’t forget an easy way to decorate is yellow ribbons and American flags.

Uniforms – A true military adventure must have at least a little camouflage. Have the military children wear uniforms like their soldier. If the group is a mixture of civilian and military children, have the civilian children and volunteers wear patriotic clothing.

War Paint –kids love to get their faces painted like a real soldier. You can come up with your own face paints or get a face painting kit.

Chow

Meals Ready To Eat (MRE) – if you can, purchase several MREs from your local surplus store. Even if the kids don’t really eat them for their chow they’ll enjoy tasting them and the experience of “eating like a soldier”.

Field Rations - if you have a smaller group you can save up or purchase tin cans (make sure there are no sharp edges) and serve macaroni & cheese or beans & weinees out of them.

Make It Camo – do cupcakes with little plastic soldiers on the top, a full “terrain” looking field cake, or even serve food that is only green or brown (get creative). A friend of mine made “swamp water” – put raisins into ice cube trays, fill trays with water and leave long enough for the ice to freeze clear. Add a few drops of green food coloring to a light-colored or clear beverage. Then they have green “swamp” water filled with “flies”. Ewww!

Water Buffalo – the easiest way to do this is get a bright orange Gatorade® container like you’ll see the soldiers have in the field.

Activities

Show & Tell – respecting that not all military families have a soldier that is home instead of inviting the soldier to the event have the child bring something that is “show & tell” about their soldier(s).

Build a Tank - here's a website with step by step instructions on how to build a tank out of cardboard boxes. You can go big or small, either way having the kids make their own toys is a blast.

PT – set up an obstacle course, play a game of ultimate football, or take the children for a run. Test the group’s strength with a tug of war game. Want more fun? Start timing your kids and give them a true PT "test."

Share a Story – grab a book from the military child booklist and read to the children or have them read it aloud to each other.

Operation Cinema - choose a military themed movie to watch.

Jot It Down – have the children write letters to soldiers. Write a poem, song, or story about military kids and share it with the classroom or start with a line of a story and have them each add a sentence to create a military child story themselves.

Care Packages - collect items to donate to the troops or have classmates create special “care packages” for the military children.

Field Trip – visit a local Veteran’s Organization and have the children speak with the veterans of past wars.

Games

Pin the “Flag” on the Uniform (or the medal on the soldier) – fashion up an ACU top (printed or real) where you can “pin” the flag where it is supposed to be on the uniform or get a military themed poster or Flat Daddy® and print medals to “pin” on.

Hot Grenade - the “military” version of Hot Potato game. Play the music in the background, have the kids pass a toy grenade. Whoever has the grenade when the music stops playing is out of the game.

Drill Sergeant Says – play a version of Simon Says, but get the kids do some army drills like jumping jacks, push-ups, arm curls, side bends, crunches, etc. Rules of the game stay the same - kids must hear "Drill Sergeant Says" for them to follow the command.

Recognition

Awards –you can fashion up your own certificates of completion for PT etc. for everyone involved or you can recognize the military children only. Here is a printable certificate that is just adorable.
Party Favors – don’t forget the ultimate take away. Gather some military inspired toys and goodies and place them in a camo bag to give away after the party has commenced.

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Happy Anniversary Army Wife Network! Did YOU Know?

April 2011 marks the two year anniversary of Army Wife Network and the six year anniversary of our Army Wife Talk Radio show. We thought we'd kick off our celebration by telling you a little bit about Army Wife Network and what we're all about. Before we get to that though, be sure to stay tuned all month long for "Did You Know?" tidbits on Facebook, AWN video contest, "How do you AWN?", AWN favorite moments, military spouse poetry, "THEN and NOW", and so much more!! All leading up to our celebration of our anniversary on April 25th's LIVE radio show & chat (don't worry - there will be prizes).

Here's a look back (and a little forward too)

March 2005 - Tara Crooks debuts Loving A Soldier blog

April 2005 – Army Wife Talk Radio debuts as the original internet talk radio program for military wives

April 2006 – Star Henderson joins forces with Army Wife Talk Radio founder, Tara Crooks

April 2006 – Tara Crooks signs on as Military Mom ClubMom Expert

June 2006– Crooks & Henderson publish and self-syndicate the military Q&A column, Field Problems™

July 2006 – Tara Crooks signs on as Military.com Advisor (Column & Podcast)

October 2006 – Army Wife Talk Radio changes platforms from recorded podcast to live talk radio using new technology from Blog Talk Radio

September 2007 – Crooks & Henderson publish Married to the Military column for Military Times newspaper

January 2007 – Loving A Soldier blog opens to interested bloggers from all walks of military life making it one of the first collaborative military family blogs

February 2007 – Army Wife Talk Radio welcomes their first “official” volunteer Sarah Ikena, aka “Sarah News 6” to their broadcast team

February 2007 – Tara Crooks is interviewed on CBS Evening News and called “Oprah of the Armed Forces” by anchor Katie Couric

March 2007 – Tara Crooks is interviewed on FOX REPORT with Sheppard Smith who states Army Wife Talk Radio “… is a lifeline to thousands”

May 2007 – Tara Crooks becomes a featured blogger on Lifetime Television's series Army Wives

May 2007 – Crooks and Henderson debut their Spouse Field Exercise™: Priceless Packages at Fort Stewart, GA to a full house of 100 spouses

October 2007 – Crooks and Henderson present Spouse Field Exercise™: Priceless Packages to 150 military spouses at Fort Bragg, NC

December 2007 – Crooks & Henderson featured in USAA Magazine

February 2008 – Tara Crooks featured in Military Officers Association of America (MOAA) Magazine

June 2008 – Crooks and Henderson present Spouse Field Exercise™: Priceless Packages to 300 military spouses at Fort Hood, TX

August 2008 – Tara Crooks named the American Legion Auxiliary "Woman of the Year"

December 2008 – Crooks and Henderson present Spouse Field Exercise™: Priceless Packages to 300 military spouses at Fort Campbell, KY

April 2009 – Crooks & Henderson cofound Army Wife Network

April 2009 – Army Wife Network begins the building of their core volunteer team

April 2009 – Army Wife Network presents Spouse Field Exercise™: Priceless Packages to 300 military spouses at Fort Sill, OK

April, 2009 – Army Wife Network debuts the AWN Twitter page

May, 2009 – Army Wife Network debuts the AWN Facebook fan page

June 2009 – Army Wife Network presents Spouse Field Exercise™: Priceless Packages to 300 military spouses at Fort Bliss, TX

July 2009 – Tara Crooks named Military Spouse Magazine's "Who's Who Among Military Spouses"

November 2009 – Army Wife Network names Janet McIntosh the 2010 AWN Household 6

November 2009 – Army Wife Network presents Spouse Field Exercise™: Priceless Packages to 300 military spouses at Fort Carson, CO

December 2009 – Star Henderson is interviewed on National Public Radio (NPR)

March 2010 – Army Wife Network presents Spouse Field Exercise™: Priceless Packages to 300 military spouses at Fort Stewart, GA (second visit)

May 2010 – Army Wife Network presents Spouse Field Exercise™: Priceless Packages to 300 military spouses at Fort Riley, KS

October 2010 – Army Wife Network presents Spouse Field Exercise™: Priceless Packages to 300 military spouses at Fort Campbell, KY (second visit)

October 2010 – Army Wife Network team completes the 26th Annual Army Ten Miler in Washington, DC

November 2010 – Army Wife Network presents Spouse Field Exercise™: Priceless Packages to 300 military spouses at Fort Drum, NY

November 2010 – Army Wife Network names Kristen Smith the 2011 AWN Household 6

January 2011 – Army Wife Network’s Facebook fan page reaches 25,000 fans

February 2011 – Army Wife Network presents Spouse Field Exercise™: Priceless Packages to 300 military spouses at Fort Polk, LA

May 2011 – Army Wife Network is scheduled to present Spouse Field Exercise™: Priceless Packages to 300 military spouses at Fort Knox, KY

September 2011 – Army Wife Network is scheduled to present Spouse Field Exercise™: Priceless Packages to 300 military spouses at Fort Wainwright, AK

November 2011 – Army Wife Network is scheduled to present Spouse Field Exercise™: Priceless Packages to 300 military spouses at Fort Hood, TX

November 2011 - Tara Crooks and Star Henderson, along with authors Kathie Hightower and Holly Scherer release "1001 Things To Love About Military Life" from Hachette Book Group

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