If I am being honest, it is also one of the only times I sit down and look at my life in a practical way. Not emotionally. Not aspirational. Just realistically. 

This lifestyle does not give you a lot of room to figure things out later. When things get busy, they get busy fast. And if something is not already handled, it becomes one more thing you are trying to fix when you are already tired. 

So, I do not approach Memorial Day sales like a shopping event.  I treat it like a reset. 

I find myself standing in my kitchen, usually reheating my coffee, thinking through the next few weeks. What do I keep running out of? What do I always end up buying last minute? What stresses me out every single drill weekend that I could have handled ahead of time?

That is where I start, because I am not asking what I want. I am asking what I am going to have to buy anyway.  That shift alone has saved me more money than anything else. 

Living this Guard life means you are constantly transitioning. From civilian work to drill. From mom mode to mission mode. Those transitions are where the cracks show. That is where you realize you are out of something, forgot something, or did not plan as well as you thought you did…and those moments almost always cost more. 

So now, Memorial Day is when I get ahead of that version of me. The tired one. The one packing a bag late at night. The one grabbing whatever is easiest, because there is no time left to think. 

If it touches drill, I think about it now. I pay attention to the things I replace over and over again. The things I’m always scrambling for, and instead of dealing with it later, I handle it while it is on sale.  Not excessively. Just enough to stay ahead. That same mindset carries into everything else. 

I have learned that the real money does not disappear in big purchases. It disappears in the small, constant ones. The extra store runs. The quick orders. The “I will just grab it real quick” moments that add up over time.  So, I look at my everyday life and ask where that is happening. 

It is usually in the basics. Coffee. Snacks. Quick meals. The things that keep everything moving when I do not have time to stop. Buying those intentionally, and usually one place like Amazon, keeps me from making five separate trips during the week when I am already stretched thin. Honestly, it is not just about money. It is about time and mental space too. 

I also take a look at my home, but not in a way that has anything to do with how it looks. I think about how it functions.  If I am constantly dealing with the same frustration every morning, if something is making my routine harder than it needs to be, that is what I fix, because when everything else in life is unpredictable, your home should not be another source of stress. 

Sometimes saving money is not about buying less. It is about buying smarter so you are not replacing the same thing over and over again.  Even clothing falls into that for me now. I am not shopping for new outfits. I am paying attention to what I actually wear when I am tired. What I reach for without thinking. That is what I stick with, because it simplifies one more decision in a day that already has too many. 

At this point, Memorial Day sales are not about getting more.  They are about staying ahead.  They are about setting up the version of me that is about to be pulled in multiple directions and still expected to show up fully in every role.  That version of me is coming whether I prepare for her or not. 

Memorial Day will always be about honoring first. That never changes, but it is also a moment to take care of your life while you are living it. To prepare. To simplify. To remove as many unnecessary stressors as you can before everything speeds back up again…because this life is full. 

So, if I can make it even a little bit easier on myself and my family, I am going to do that. Every single time. 

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As a kid, I remember rolling my eyes at some of things that came with the holiday – the deep cleaning, new clothes, and long dinners that lasted forever. Now? I get it.

Chinese New Year, also known as Lunar New Year or Spring Festival, is less about fireworks and more about intention. It marks the beginning of the lunar calendar and centers around renewal, family, and prosperity, and as an adult my perspective changed.

Before the new year arrives, the house gets cleaned top to bottom, very detailed. It is symbolic, you are sweeping away last year’s bad luck to make room for what is coming. Here is the twist, once the new year starts, you do not clean for the first few days. This means sweeping, no throwing things out, or anything like that because you do not want to accidentally “sweep away” your fresh luck.

I’m sure you’ve all seen it before, but red becomes the unofficial uniform. Red symbolizes protection and good fortune, which is why you will see it everywhere. Red lanterns, the famous red envelopes filled with money.…even red underwear if your zodiac year is coming up, and yes, that is a thing.

The red envelopes, or hongbao, changes as you get older too. As a kid, you receive them, however, as an adult, you give them. It becomes less about the money and more about passing blessings forward, to this day older people in my family still give them to me.

Now let’s not forget about the food. Every dish carries meaning. Fish symbolizes abundance because the word for fish sounds like surplus in Chinese. Dumplings resemble gold ingots, representing wealth. Noodles are served long and uncut to symbolize longevity. Even the way you eat becomes intentional. You are not just having dinner, you are inviting prosperity into your life.

There are superstitions that still live in the back of my mind no matter how modern life gets:

• Do not wash your hair on New Year’s Day or you might wash away good fortune.
• Do not argue. 
• Do not say negative words. 
• Avoid the number four because it sounds like the word for death. 

Whether you believe every detail or not, the spirit behind it matters. Protect your peace and guard your energy, you want to start the year aligned.

Now, celebrating looks a little different. Maybe it is hosting friends for a dumpling night, or maybe it is wearing something red under a neutral outfit just for yourself. Maybe it is even just calling your parents and actually listening to the stories instead of rushing off the phone. For me, I take my dad out every year to celebrate it with him. 

As an Asian man in today’s world, I appreciate leaning into it instead of distancing from it, it’s grounding. It is my culture, it is part of my identity, and it is discipline wrapped in tradition that I was taught growing up. It is also honoring ancestors while building your own future. Chinese New Year reminds me that success is not accidental, it is all intentional. When the lanterns glow and the fireworks start, it feels less like a party and more like a promise to myself and the future I will have. 

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I spent under $30 grabbing a few things to romanticize the moment in a way that felt cozy and personal. Nothing over the top, just small touches that made the night feel intentional. I picked up three face mask options, a sleep eye cover, socks, and a candle. Once I got home, I also used what I already had, like my red coupe glass and some sparkling cider (or whatever floats your boat).

I made it cute by decorating my table the way I like it. Not “perfect,” not staged for anyone else, just pretty enough to make me pause and enjoy being in my own space. I lit the candle, poured my drink into the coupe glass because that instantly elevates the experience, and sat down with a book. No background noise, no constant scrolling, just silence. That quiet part was the whole reset.

After I had my calm moment, I picked a face mask and let that be the transition into full cozy mode. I love having multiple options because sometimes your skin wants hydration, sometimes it wants glow, and sometimes you just want to feel like you did something nice for yourself. I didn’t overthink it. I chose one, got comfortable, and let it do what it came to do.

For dinner, I made myself a bowl of pasta. Comfort food is self-care in my book, and I wasn’t interested in turning the night into a complicated cooking project. It was warm, simple, filling, and exactly what I wanted. To close the night out the right way, I got on the couch and binge watched Bridgerton. Blanket on, candle still burning, snack energy if you want it, and zero guilt. It was soft, cozy, and honestly the perfect end to a day that can sometimes feel heavy if you’re alone or missing your person.

Here’s what I want you to take from this…you don’t need a big budget to make Valentine’s Day feel special. You can do it with small details. A candle, a face mask, a cute glass, a quiet moment, a comfort meal, and a show you love will do. The goal isn’t to impress anyone; the goal is to create a moment that feels good to you.

If your spouse is away right now, you’re allowed to hold it down and still give yourself softness. If you’re single, you’re allowed to romance your own life without needing a reason. Either way, you deserve a night that feels warm and intentional.

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If you don’t have a charcuterie board, no worries, just pull out a cookie sheet and place everything neatly on top. If you don’t have a fireplace, don’t let that stop you. They make tabletop mini fire pits small enough to fit in the palm of your hand. They’re the perfect way to bring the cozy campfire vibes indoors. Take your experience over the top with a cup of Hot Chocolate.

Over the years we’ve gotten creative with our s’mores lineup, from Reese’s peanut butter cups and classic Hershey’s milk chocolate to white chocolate bars and even Lorna Doone shortbread or Biscoff cookies. Sometimes we mix in pretzel sticks for a salty crunch or fresh strawberries for an extra treat.

It’s amazing how something so simple, a few sweet ingredients and some family time, can fill a home with so much warmth. What started as a way to create stability for my kids during my service years has turned into one of our most treasured family rituals. Every melted marshmallow and chocolatey grin reminds me that sometimes the best traditions are the ones that remind us what home truly feels like.

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Holly Jolly Recipes:

• Frosty Water
  • Pina Colada Packet
  • Blueberry Syrup
• Mrs. Claus Water
  • Pina Colada Packet
  • Cotton Candy Syrup
  • Cherry Syrup for top
• Buddy the Elf Water
  • Green Apple Packet
  • Sugar Cookie Syrup
• Grinch Water
  • Green Apple Packet
  • Salted Caramel Syrup
• Rudolph Water
  • Tropical Punch Packet
  • Sugar Cookie Syrup
  • Vanilla Syrup
• Winter Wonderland Water
  • White Chocolate Peppermint Syrup
  • Blue Raspberry Packet
• Cindy Lou Who Water
  • Sugar Cookie Syrup
  • All Pink Starburst Packet
  • Cotton Candy Syrup for top

These are so tasty! You can print the recipes off and keep it handy! I hope you will try them all and enjoy them as much as we did! Ready to snag all of these ingredients? Make sure to check out our Warning: Wonderful Waters Ahead section of our Amazon storefront!

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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.

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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.

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Here are some tips for Healthy Snacking:

1. Eat before you go to a party. Holiday parties seem like they happen every weekend right? Well, try eating a full breakfast, lunch, or dinner (depending on the time of the party) before going out. This fullness will help when you are presented with a table full of sweet treats and snacks.
2. Snack with veggies and fruits. Instead of loading up your plate with sweets, chips and dips, and other high calorie snacks, try and stick to the veggies, greens, and heck even throw in a little ranch! Also, most fruit trays have delicious strawberries, melon, and apples (with a little peanut butter, of course). Sounds boring, I know, but your waistline will thank you later!
3. Choose what you will indulge in. Now I’m not saying don’t eat any cookies or treats at all during the holidays, I know that is impossible for me! So instead, choose wisely on what you will indulge in. Personally, I would choose to eat something that is unique to season and not something I can have any other time of the year. When you know you are going to indulge a little, perhaps make cuts elsewhere little on your morning snack or that extra cup of coffee.
4. Focus on socializing. I mean, that is what holiday parties are for right? You get together, talk, laugh, relive old memories, and create new ones all at the same time. Guess what? All that is calorie free!! Woohooo! Make sure you focus on the social aspects of the party or the holidays in general, because this will eliminate your want to stand by the chip bowl and just eat, eat, and eat some more. I have totally done this…regrets I say, regrets!
5. Exercise. Sounds like a no-brainer, but during the holidays, we get so busy and so exercise isn’t always priority number one. However, all the running around, cleaning, errands, and things of that nature are actually doing you some good! Besides that, taking 10 to 15 min, 2-3x a day to get your heart rate up is also a great way to burn extra calories. Try: squats, lunges, dips, planks, jumping jacks, and sit ups. Mixing together a couple of sets of 10 of each of these exercises (2-3x a day) only takes 10-15min, gets your blood flowing, and somewhat compensates for the yummy treats!

So enjoy this Holiday season in a healthy way!! I promise, you won’t regret it! 

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Now, since most of us are in all walks of life, and celebrate so many holidays differently, I wanted to show case some Thanksgiving event attire that will speak to almost anyone!

Here are some of my favorite trend that are out there right now:

• I absolutely love this wrap dress. It comes in so may colors, but for fall this orange is really doing it for me! I have a very short torso so the high waist really compliments my figure and the flowing skirt hides all the things having 5 kids still shows. You can dress this up more with accessories yet it is still casual enough to feel polished, yet not over dressed for the most low-key Friendsgiving events.
• This next dress is something a little more out of my comfort zone, but is so on trend right now. The shorter style is not too revealing, but you can always pair it with tights or leggings if you so desire. This dark green would go great for any holiday, but really spoke to me when I saw it! The material is very comfortable and the fit is so flattering. I love the ruffle and flare of the skirt.
• If you are like most and don’t want the high maintenance of a dress, but need something a bit more high end looking, I highly suggest this romper. The outfit is made of a light weight material, and easily looks super polished as is or add some extra accessories to really up your game!
• Now some of us do still have to work on Thanksgiving and I saw this awesome pant suit for work. It’s dressy enough to be business casual attire, but comfy enough for me to eat as many helpings of stuffing as you want. Plus, they have so many color options that you can wear your favorite football team attire right underneath.

With so many amazing trends to choose from right now, it can be a challenge to find the right look for you. We have started our new Tactical Trends section in our Amazon storefront where we will have great looks like these and more. So, let’s skip the sweatpants and wear something that makes us feel great!

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Ceremonies commemorating the POW/MIA are held at the Pentagon and military bases worldwide. The POW/MIA Flag is flown at federal buildings, and many states fly the flag as well. In some areas, schools hold museum visits and other field trips so the upcoming generation does not forget the people for whom this day is named. POW/MIA recognition rides are commonplace now, with service members, veterans, and families joining in motorcycle rides across the country.

What became POW/MIA Recognition Day began with the National League of Families of American Prisoners and Missing in Southeast Asia. Founded in 1966, the organization was the first to lobby the U.S. government and the United Nations for the humane treatment of POWs and information on those declared MIA.

In 1972, the League adopted the POW/MIA flag, giving it an incredible visual that has appeared on nearly every national magazine and is recognized around the world. Seven years later, POW/MIA the first National POW/MIA Recognition Day was observed with an official ceremony in Washington, D.C.

In the forty-six years since 1979, the federal government has had several agencies dedicated to finding and identifying service member remains. On January 15, 2015, those were folded into one organization based out of the Pentagon. The Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency follows leads, performs searches, and identifies remains from every conflict since WWII in their laboratories and partnership with private organizations.

These teams work around the world, still searching for service member remains. Shortly before this article was written, the remains of U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Henry G. Gish were fully identified and his family informed. SSgt Gish, with ten of his brothers, was killed in Vietnam forty-seven years ago.

This month, find out what your community is doing and take some time to honor these men and women. Do something to follow what it says on the POW/MIA Flag, “You Are Not Forgotten”.

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