Military life can feel like a lot of pressure sometimes. There are countless ups and downs to navigate, requiring you to adapt year after year. I’ll be honest with you right now: I’m not usually big on New Year’s resolutions. I’m in the camp, where I believe if you truly want to do something, you will make a goal and strive to meet it [...]
Archives for December 2015
Best Military Life Blog Posts of 2015
It's 5:30 am here in Okinawa. I'm sitting on my balcony today looking out at the beautiful island sunrise. I feel the dew on my cheeks from the warm winter air. It's 70 degrees here, and it doesn't feel anything like the cold bitter Midwest winters I grew up with. Both my kids lay nestled in their beds, while I sit here drinking hot [...]
I’m Terrible at Being a Military Spouse
Last week my husband and I attended an annual military family mandatory fun party. This party included a meal, live entertainment, and of course, a bouncy house for the kids. Secretly, I was dreading it. As a military spouse, I should be more enthusiastic about these “family fun nights,” but often times we get there, spend the [...]
Bossy Toddler: How to Keep the Upper Hand
Funny there’s no chapter in any parenting book called Advanced Toddler Negotiation: How to Keep the Upper Hand. I think there should be. Because somewhere between the ages of 18 months and 3 years old your sweet obedient child will turn into a rebellious teenager overnight. Of course it seems cute and funny at first. But after a few [...]
5 Easy Ways to Be a More Patient Mom
I finished cleaning up the house, and I took one minute to go the bathroom. I was ready to be a patient mom and connect with my kids. I just needed one minute. And when I returned my son was reaching into the pantry on his tippy toes. Oh man, I knew exactly what was about to happen before it even happened. Unfortunately, I was about 6 [...]
Best Holiday App for Military Kids Far From Family
My in-laws were just here Japan for two weeks visiting us. During their visit, they met our newborn daughter for first time. These are the moments everyone appreciates when you live far from family. The moments where you build relationships and connection. The moments where you share laughs and giggles together. It’s special. It’s also [...]