Either way, you’re still showing up with a gift in hand and probably a little glitter on your uniform. So, if you’re staring at your exchange name thinking, “What do I even get for this person?” I’ve got you covered.

Caffeine is the Love Language

Across the Guard, we’ve all got our caffeines of choice. Your MPs are rolling in with Monsters, Ghosts, and probably a Zyn pack or two. Meanwhile, your PAO are sipping Starbucks or Dutch Bros like it’s a lifestyle.

You can’t go wrong with a fun mug, a pack of someone’s go-to energy drink, or even a little “drill fuel” basket. Check your local Exchange for Starbucks gift sets or energy drink bundles, or browse the Commissary’s holiday deals for some festive finds.

Because whether it’s caffeine, chaos, or both, it’s basically how we function.

Tactical Stocking Stuffers

We all know that one person who’s always losing their flashlight. Nothing says “I care about you, battle” quite like a multitool, a Gerber, or another knife. Because can you really ever have too many?

You can find great stocking stuffers in the Exchange Sports & Outdoors section, or grab quick-shipping tactical gear on Amazon. Throw in some 550 cord or a mini first aid kit, and boom. Practical, thoughtful, and guaranteed to get used.

Cozy Barracks (or Office) Vibes

Tell me you’re in the Guard without telling me you’re in the Guard. It’s winter drill, the barracks thermometer is stuck at 65, and you’re layered up like you’re going to the field. Let Santa help your battles out this year with something cozy like a twin-sized fleece blanket or those fuzzy socks that feel like a warm hug.

Or better yet, an extra-long phone charger! Amazon has great charging cord bundles that save the day when everyone’s fighting over one outlet during AT season.

Snack Attack Pack

If you’re getting food, you’re bold. Super bold. But honestly, it’s a power move. Some of the biggest hits I’ve seen across the guard have been the fancy tropical gummy bears, jerky and cheese combos, chips, and gum. All the gum.

You can load up on drill-day favorites and grab those boujee candies and jerky packs from the Exchange’s Food & Gift section.

Oh, and if your unit allows it, and you don’t have anyone under 21, a little bottle of something festive never hurts. Just sayin’.

Bonus Idea: The Big Dill Gift

The biggest hit of our unit’s party last year was the Big Dill gift. I’m talking pickle socks, pickle chips, a pickle ornament, full commitment. It started as a joke and somehow turned into the most traded gift of the day.

You can find pickle-themed gifts and ornaments galore on Amazon or even grab some snackable bites.

Every unit’s got its own vibe. Ours does a $20 limit, but honestly, it’s never about the price tag. It’s about the creativity, the inside jokes, and the memories that make it all worth it.

Wrapping it Up (Literally)

Whether you go funny, cozy, or caffeine-fueled, the best Secret Santa gifts are the ones that make your battle laugh, feel seen, and maybe even say, “Dang, that’s actually useful.”

So, grab your wrapping paper, cue up your favorite holiday playlist, and sleigh this year’s unit party because if anyone can bring the holiday spirit in between drills, it’s the Guard.

Find Out More with My Military Savings and Holidays & More!

But honestly, I would not have it any other way.

Serving in the Guard has taught me a lot about balance. How to shift from soldier mode to mom mode, from field gear to casserole dishes. I’m even thinking about trying those yummy looking Roasted Rainbow Carrots this year. This season, I’m extra grateful for the chaos, because it means I’m home. It means I get to be “Mom” again, not just “Sergeant.” It means I get to savor the things I missed while I was away, like bedtime giggles, coffee that isn’t instant, and the smell of something baking instead of that good old barracks scent.

And let me tell you, nothing warms my heart quite like my Guard family. The constant “hey, I miss you boo,” the “how are you holding up,” and the “take care of yourself” messages mean everything. It’s those little check-ins that remind me we are never really doing this alone. The Guard community shows up for each other, no matter how far apart we are or how busy life gets.

I have also learned that gratitude doesn’t need perfection. The turkey might be slightly overdone, the mashed potatoes might come from a box, and I might still be living out of my duffel bag. But it is ours. It is real, and it is messy, and it is full of love.

And yes, this Guard mom is still on her saving grind. Stretching that grocery budget, catching Commissary sales, and finding creative ways to make the holiday special without spending too much. Every little bit saved means more room for joy and maybe a second slice of pie.

So this year, I’m giving thanks for it all. For the service, the savings, and the savoring. For my military family who always checks in, for my kids who remind me why I serve, and for this incredible community that keeps me grounded through every season.

Here is to full hearts, full plates, and finding gratitude in the beautiful in-between moments, even if your uniform is still in the laundry and the cranberry sauce is straight from the can.

Find Out More with My Military Saving and Guard Life!

Helping kids care for pets doesn’t have to mean power struggles or chore charts taped to the fridge. Letting them pour kibble, refill the water bowl, or brush out the fuzz from the shepherd’s fall coat becomes more than just a task. It builds consistency. It grows empathy. It gives them a chance to feel proud of something, even if the dog still rolls in leaves five minutes later.

Let’s be real: military life already stretches our time and our wallets. That’s why picking up your favorite Purina products at the Commissary is a solid mom move.

When PCS season hits, or even just a quick holiday trip, your pet is right there in the backseat, drooling on your kid’s backpack and keeping the vibe calm. Giving your child a role in the travel prep builds connection and confidence. Let them pack the treats, update the microchip, or make a checklist for moving day. Bonus tip: toss a travel sized bag of treats in the car for low-mess snack breaks (for the dog… but honestly, your kid might try one too). 

November is all about togetherness, and in a military household, that might look a little different. Maybe you’re planning a Thanksgiving meal early before someone leaves, or maybe you’re setting an extra place at the table over FaceTime. Including pets in these traditions gives kids something joyful to hold onto. Let them bake treats for the dog, write a “thankful for my pet” list, or help choose a new seasonal toy. Even the little rituals help your family stay connected. 

Don’t forget to check those Commissary deals, especially as holiday savings roll in on your favorite Purina items. It’s a simple way to stretch your budget while still showing love to your four-legged MVP.

Military kids grow up side by side through every move, every home, and every season. Each time they cuddle up on the couch or pour kibble into the bowl, your child is learning how to care, how to show up, and how to love big in small ways.  

Want more ways to care for your pets without breaking the bank? Join the Military Pet Club, for rewards, tips, and savings made for military families like yours.

Find Out More with MyMilitarySavings.com and Pets!

As a Guardsman, a milspouse, and the proud aunt to a few spoiled cat nieces and nephews, I live for the flannel, the lattes, and that crisp-leaf energy. And while I don’t have a cat of my own, I’ve met enough to know these little furballs are fall girls at heart.

Cats have incredible senses of smell—about 200 million scent receptors to our five million. So when your kitchen fills with pumpkin bread vibes or that candle from the PX? Trust, they notice. And honestly, they’re probably into it.

The best part? Pumpkin isn’t just a seasonal aesthetic. Plain pumpkin (not pie filling!) is actually good for cats in moderation. It can support digestion and makes a fun food topper. Want to keep it even easier? Make this super simple Push Pop Pumpkin Treat. It’s cat-safe, super tasty, and bring those cozy autumn flavors straight to your feline.

Picture it: soft socks, PSL in hand, an autumn candle flickering, and your cat niece or nephew enjoying a pumpkin treat. It’s giving main character energy—and we’re so here for it.

Just be sure to introduce new snacks slowly and skip anything with added sugar or spice. Keep it simple and safe so your favorite feline can enjoy the season too.

Want to level up the fall vibes? Join the MilitaryCatClub.com for surprise goodies and exclusive giveaways made just for military families and their fabulous felines.

So grab your latte, embrace the cozy, and let your cat crew in on the pumpkin spice joy. Fall is officially in season.

Find Out More with MyMilitarySavings.com and Pets!

Between the post-PCS haze, new school routines that don’t feel routine, and the usual layer of dog hair that’s become part of the décor, this season is already full. Still, we’re showing up—maybe a little scattered, definitely tired, but all in with heart and probably a leash in one hand. 

In our house, “somehow making it work” looks like: 

• Healthy snacks in almost every diaper bag/ backpack. 
• Dog hair on every piece of clothing I own. 
• Dinner that may or may not involve chicken (again). 
• Letting go of the picture-perfect and leaning into what’s authentic.

Look, I know it’s easy to feel like you’re the only one fumbling through this season. Social media will have you believing everyone else’s house smells like fall candles and not wet dogs, but here’s the truth: you’re doing better than you think.

Your dogs don’t care that your hair’s in a bun for however-many days in a row. Your kids won’t remember if dinner was chicken almost every night this week. What they will remember is that you showed up. That you were there. That you made a space for love and laughter, even in the middle of the mess. 

So, if this season feels like survival mode with a side of Fruit Rolls and dog drool – same. You’re not alone, friend. We’re all out here figuring it out one fur-covered day at a time. 

However, when you do have a minute to catch your breath? Treat yourself to something that makes life easier (and maybe saves you some money too). Find Out More with My Military Saving and check out our Food & Drink section to find something besides chicken—because this season’s hard enough. Let’s not make it harder. 

Cats may seem like they’ve got life all figured out, but they still need mental and physical stimulation to stay happy and healthy. The best part? It doesn’t take a big change to make a big difference in your kitty’s daily routine.

Try adding a window perch where they can watch birds, people, or even leaves drifting by. Bring in some new toys that mimic prey and watch your cat’s inner hunter come to life. You might even want to switch things up with food puzzles that keep their minds active while they snack.

Sometimes the simplest things are the most exciting. A crinkly paper bag, an empty cardboard box, or a fresh catnip toy can turn an ordinary day into a mini adventure. Let’s not forget how much cats love routines. Just a few minutes of brushing, playtime, or cuddles each day can strengthen your bond and make your cat feel extra special.

Bonus for Military Cat Parents: The Military Cat Club has free PAWS-itively adorable goodies, giveaways, and helpful resources created just for you.

Find Out More with My Military Savings and Pets!

While the National Guard resets its spending plans and budgets, we’re over here doing the same, but with our caffeine of choice in hand, a cart full of snacks, and that familiar feeling of “how do I make this all work without breaking the bank?”

Between back-to-school shifts, fall holidays creeping in, and the colder months coming fast, now is the perfect time to reset your own mission: stock up smart, plan with purpose, and stretch those dollars like the budget boss you are. 

Whether it’s prepping for a drill weekend, building out an emergency stockpile (because we know random weather and surprise orders are real), or just getting back on track after a summer of we’ll figure it out later, a little intention goes a long way. 

You don’t have to DIY with your budget refresh. We have you covered with: 

• Coupons you can use now – simple & no stress.
• Commissary deals on your go-to brands – think Purina, General Mills, Kraft, and more.
• Seasonal recipes to help you meal plan around what’s on sale (and what your picky eaters will actually eat). 
• Savings tips tailored for military families – because we get the unique juggle you’re managing. 

Guard families don’t wait until January to make resolutions. We do it on the fly, in the aisles of the grocery store, with a toddler on one hip and drill gear in the trunk. This new fiscal year is your reminder: you’ve got another fresh start to prioritize your people, your pantry, and your peace of mind. 

So whether you’re meal prepping before a weekend out in the field, buying bulk snacks for the FRG event, or just trying to keep your household from spiraling into a fast-food-every-night hole — now’s the time to shop smart, save smarter, and make that Guard Life hustle just a little easier. 

Check out the latest Commissary savings, grab your coupons and load your digital ones to your Rewards Card, and keep showing up for your family and your wallet this fiscal year. 

You’ve got this — one clipped coupon and stocked pantry shelf at a time.

Find Out More with My Military Savings and Guard Life!

Between unexpected TDYs, drill weekends, or settling into a new neighborhood after a PCS, it’s easy to overlook how the changing season affects our pets. So, here’s what I’ve picked up to help keep my pups safe (and happy) during fall.

First, watch what snacks are left out. Fall favorites like chocolate or anything pumpkin-spiced might be tempting, but they’re toxic for dogs. If you’re hosting friends or heading to a unit gathering, make sure your pup isn’t sneaking snacks, unless they are dog-friendly fall treats!

Leaf piles might look like fun, but they can hide mold, bugs, or even sharp sticks. My dog loves a good pile dive, but we keep playtime in the open yard instead.

As temperatures drop, don’t forget that dogs feel it too. A cozy sweater or jacket can help, especially on those brisk morning walks. Also, with the sun setting earlier, we’ve added reflective collars and leashes to stay visible during evening strolls.

Also, keep an eye out for local critters. Fall brings out wildlife prepping for winter, and your dog’s curiosity can lead to some risky encounters.

Being a military pet parent means adapting on the fly. That’s why I love being a part of the Military Pet Club—free resources, helpful tips, and a community that just gets it. It makes a big difference for me and my four-legged teammates.

Find Out More with MyMilitarySavings.com and Pets!

If you know, you know. Guard families don’t just live one schedule. We juggle school calendars, sports practices, parent-teacher conferences, training dates, and the occasional “Hey babe, I have drill on our anniversary, do you?” (Yes, it happens, and we roll with it.)

This time of year always feels like a puzzle with extra pieces. I sit down with my iced coffee, my color-coded planner, both our drill calendars, and the stacks of school forms and extracurricular schedules to try and make it all make sense. Who’s picking up who on Fridays? When is that field trip? Is this the year we finally remember to schedule dentist appointments before the reminder postcard shows up?

Oh, and don’t forget the care plans. If you’re Guard, you know the drill (yes, I went there). When both of us have drill or activation at the same time, it becomes a whole new strategy session. What if our backup caregiver isn’t available anymore? What if one of the kids starts showing signs of being sick and we’re back to navigating quarantine while still making sure everyone’s cared for? It’s fine. We’re fine.

Here’s what I’ve learned to do: 

• Plan what you can, and let go of what you can’t. 
• Write it down, double-check it, then triple-check it with your spouse (because “I thought you knew” is not a strategy). 
• Lean into systems: meal plans, family calendars, shared Google docs, and MyMilitarySavings.com for quick dinner recipes and budget-friendly finds, because feeding a family during a drill weekend should not be its own battle.. 
• Most importantly, give yourself grace. August is chaos. You’re not behind, you’re a Guard family doing your best in survival mode.

If you’re staring down your planner right now and wondering how it’s all going to work, you’re absolutely not alone. You’re deep in your planning era, and you’re doing your best. 

Honestly? That’s more than enough. 

Need quick dinners, easy school snacks, and family-budget lifesavers? Find Out More with My Military Saving and Guard Life! They get it, because we live it too.

Our pets pick up on way more than we do. Their hearing is next-level, which means they often hear thunder long before we notice it. Add in flickers of lightning, sudden shifts in air pressure, and even static buildup, and it’s no wonder they get spooked. Some pets might try to hide, pace the house, bark, whine, or just seem totally unsettled. It’s tough to watch, but the good news is that there are a few simple ways to help them feel a little safer and more grounded.

Start by creating a cozy space where they can hunker down. That could be a favorite blanket, a bed tucked in a quiet room, or even a crate with a towel draped over it for cave-like comfort. Turning on a fan, soft music, or even the TV can help mask the thunder and bring a sense of normal. You staying calm makes a big difference too. Pets feed off our energy, so when you’re calm, they’re more likely to settle.

If your pet is really struggling, calming treats, anxiety vests, or pheromone diffusers might help. Just check with your vet to figure out what’s best for them. And let’s clear this up: comforting a scared pet is not reinforcing bad behavior. If they’re anxious, it’s absolutely okay to offer love and support.

As military pet parents, we know the routine can be unpredictable with deployments, PCS moves, new environments, and the added stress of sudden storms. That’s why the Military Pet Club is here with free goodies, helpful resources, and exclusive perks made just for military families and their pets.

Find Out More with MyMilitarySavings.com and Pets!