Food-wise, I’ve been trying not to skip meals, but I need something quick. OIKOS yogurt has been clutch because I can throw in some fruit, and it actually holds me over. Starkist Tuna has been just as helpful. I can eat it with crackers and call it a day when I don’t feel like figuring out a full meal.

Drinking water is something I’m always trying to do better with, so I’ve been more consistent. MiO helps because I can switch up the flavor when I get bored, and it’s even helped my kids drink more water without always reaching for juice.

I’ve also been more mindful about what I’m drinking besides coffee and water, and Health-Ade Kombucha is something I’ll grab when I want something different without reaching for soda.

Some of the other things I keep stocked are just everyday staples that make life easier. Cottonelle is one that I don’t ever want to run out of. Bush’s Baked Beans are an easy side, and Oscar Mayer is a go-to for quick lunches when I need something fast. Honey Maid Graham Crackers have been in rotation for snacks because the kids actually eat them, and Beggin’ Strips are a must for the pup; he hears the bag and comes running every time.

I’m just trying to be consistent with what works for me. If something is easy and fits into my routine, I’m more likely to stick with it. And honestly, stocking up on the things we actually use has made a bigger difference than I expected. It saves time, cuts down extra trips, and helps me stay on budget without overthinking it.

While you’re stocking up, you can enter the Stock Up & Save Sweepstakes at MMSsweepstakes.com for a chance to win. Five winners will each receive a $100 Commissary gift card!

This program supports Operation Homefront, which helps provide relief and support to military families. Knowing that the everyday shopping I’m already doing can also give back in some way just makes it feel a little more meaningful.

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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When the dog food bag is suddenly empty, the cat has decided today’s flavor is unacceptable, and the treat jar is suspiciously bare, convenience matters.

With Click2Go, you can order groceries and pet essentials from the Commissary online and choose curbside pickup or, at participating locations, delivery. In fact, about 70 Commissaries now offer delivery if you live within 20 miles, making it even easier to stock up without rearranging your whole day.

A typical pet parent cart might include:

• Dog or cat food
• Treats (obviously)
• Training treats
• Pet toppers or broth
• Cleaning supplies

If spring has taught us anything, it’s that mud season is real and those cleaning supplies come in handy.

For military families juggling busy schedules, Click2Go means fewer last-minute runs and more time for the important stuff, walks, couch cuddles, and backyard zoomies. Personally, I love that it saves me time so I can spend more of it with my dog, whether that’s heading out for a hike, wandering along the beach, or just getting outside together instead of running errands.

Here at Military Pet Club, we’re always looking for ways to save time to spend more time with our furry kiddos and sharing seasonal pet tips that will help make this military life better. So next time the treats run out overnight (again), try Click2Go, your pets will definitely approve.

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Feel free to decorate your space with festive decor. You can display flags, a festive tablecloth, centerpieces or colored utensils as a simple way to brighten up your table.

It doesn’t matter if you prefer gas or charcoal; go ahead and fire up the grill! We’d love to know what flavor combinations you come up with. All your favorite condiments and ingredients for side dishes, desserts and drinks can be picked up at your local Commissary.

Find the full recipe for the American cheeseburger on mymilitarysavings.com/recipes/dinner/american-cheeseburger  

You can get a sneak peek of the full line up on this year’s titles! Which ones will catch your eye? Maybe Archie or Sonic? Could it be the Flash Gordon or the Conan the Barbarian? I wonder if it will be Conan the Stitch or Mega Man?!?! There are so many that will be available that you will surely find something for everyone in your family!

Make sure to mark your calendar for 2 May 26 for this fun event! You can find all of the details through FreeComicBookDay.com!

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There are always two sides to winter, the cold side and the cozy side. One minute I’m bundling up, heading outside into the cold, about to hit the slopes and see wide open views. The next, I’m back inside, wrapped in a blanket, warming my hands around a mug and planning what snacks I’m making later while watching the Winter Sports Games. It’s the season of finding a balance and lately, I have had some help leaning into that with Gold Medal Deals.

As someone who loves being prepared (especially when the weather turns unpredictable), stocking up on everyday favorites just makes life easier. Whether it is quick pantry staples for busy days, Kleenex Tissues for cold chilly days, to comfort foods for slow nights in, or grab-and-go snacks for early mornings, these deals make it simple to keep everything on hand without overspending. It feels like setting yourself up for small wins all winter long.

What I love most is how these savings fit into my real life. Mornings start with STOK Cold Brew and International Delight Cold Foam Creamer, something easy and energizing before heading out the door. Afternoons turn into quick snack breaks or simple lunches of tuna fish and chips thanks to Starkist Tuna and a few OREOS thrown in on the side or Del Monte Sliced Peaches that don’t require a ton of effort. Evenings are all about winding down, watching the Winter Sports Games live, and creating a cozy warm meal of homemade chili with Velveeta Cheese, Bush’s Original, Simply Organic Smoked Papirika, Heinz Ketchup and a few of those little pantry essentials you normally do not think about until you really need them. It is not fancy recipes or complicated routines. It’s about making everyday moments feel just a little more effortless.

And the timing couldn’t be better. Gold Medal Deals are available now through March 22nd, which means you can refresh your pantry and home for the rest of winter and into early spring. It’s the perfect window to stock up, save money, and feel good about what you’re bringing into your routine.

There’s also a fun bonus: while you’re shopping, you can enter the Gold Medal Deals Sweepstakes at MMSSweepstakes.com for a chance to win. Five lucky winners will each receive a $100 Commissary gift card….which honestly is the ultimate pantry restock prize.

Even better, this program proudly supports Fisher House Foundation, helping provide comfort homes for military and veteran families while their loved ones receive medical care. Knowing that your everyday shopping can also help support families during some of their hardest moments makes these deals feel even more meaningful.

This winter brave the cold, stay cozy indoors, or something somewhere in between, Gold Medal Deals are a simple way to save, prepare, and make winter a little easier.

Here are five creative ways to turn February into a financial win:

• “Buy Nothing” Month
  • Challenge your household to skip all non‑essential purchases for the entire month. That means no impulse buys, no takeout splurges, and no new gadgets. Instead, focus on using what you already have, borrowing from neighbors, or swapping with friends.
  • Bonus Tip: Keep a “wish list” of things you almost bought. Revisit it in March—you’ll be amazed how many items no longer feel important.

• “Empty the Freezer” Month
  • Think of your freezer as a hidden treasure chest. Build your meal plan around what’s already tucked away—frozen veggies, meats, leftovers, and even those mystery containers you’ve been avoiding.
  • Military Twist: This strategy is especially helpful before a PCS move or deployment. Clearing out food now saves money, reduces waste, and makes packing day a whole lot easier.

• “Declutter & Sell” Sprint
  • Tackle clutter one room per week and list usable items on Facebook Marketplace, OfferUp, or base swap groups. Price fairly and include clear photos to move items quickly. Donating items to a charity thrift shop can give your gently used items a second life and may net you a tax deduction.
  • Family Angle: Get kids involved—let them sort toys and earn a portion of the proceeds. It teaches responsibility, basic money skills, and the value of giving (consider donating part of the earnings).

• “Pantry Potluck” Nights
  • Host themed dinners using only pantry staples—think “rice night,” “canned‑goods chili,” or “pasta remix.” Invite neighbors or fellow military families to bring a dish made from their pantry finds.
  • Community Bonus: These nights build connection and morale, turn meal prep into a social event, and cut everyone’s grocery bills. Combined with a game night for adults and movies for the kids, it becomes an event that everyone loves.

• “No-Spend” Hobby Month
  • Pick hobbies that cost nothing: borrow library books, start a journal, hike local trails, craft with recycled materials, or learn a new skill through free online resources. Schedule regular time for these activities to make them stick.
  • Deployment‑Friendly: These low‑cost pastimes are great for solo parents or service members looking to relax and recharge without spending.

February’s brevity is a blessing—it’s long enough to build habits, short enough to stay motivated. Whether you’re stationed stateside or overseas, these challenges can help military families build resilience, save money, and spark joy in simple living.

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During the holidays, everything shifts. Feeding times change. Walks happen when we can squeeze them in. There are extra treats, extra people, and a lot less structure. My dog handled it well, but I could tell he missed the rhythm of normal days.

January is when we come back to ourselves. The house is quieter. The mornings are slower. And rebuilding a routine feels less like a task and more like a comfort.

One of the first things I reset was how we do meals. Instead of rushing through them or defaulting to a bowl, I started turning mealtime into something more thoughtful.

Winter limits how much time we spend outside, so mental stimulation becomes just as important as physical exercise. Feeding through enrichment has been one of the easiest ways to bring calm, focus, and structure back into our days.

Lately, I’ve been using Merrick Dry Dog Food inside puzzle feeders and enrichment toys instead of extra treats. The kibble pieces are the perfect size for snuffle mats, puzzle games, and slow feeders, and it feels good knowing I’m using his actual meals for stimulation. It turns feeding time into a moment we both look forward to, not just something to check off the list.

Our days don’t look fancy or perfectly scheduled, but they feel intentional:

• Puzzle feeders in the morning while I make coffee
• Short winter walks paired with indoor enrichment
• Rotating toys so nothing feels boring
• Evenings that end the same way every night

Rebuilding a routine in January isn’t about strict rules or doing everything “right.” It’s about paying attention. Noticing what your dog needs. Creating moments of consistency when everything else feels uncertain. For us, that meant slowing down, being more present, and finding joy in the everyday like turning a simple bowl of food into a game.

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Lately, I’ve been completely hooked on this Danish idea called Hygge. It’s that perfect mix of coziness, warmth, and just… slowing down in a way that makes everyday life feel kind of magical. I first heard about it from a friend of mine, she’s an author, and in her book, she talks about little rituals that turn ordinary days into moments you actually savor. After reading it, I realized I wanted some of that magic in my own life, especially with Luna.

Hygge isn’t about fancy décor or Pinterest-worthy setups. It’s not about doing anything big. For me, it’s the little things that make it real: curling up on the couch under a soft blanket, a warm drink in hand, and Luna curled up against me. She’s full of personality, stubborn, funny, and endlessly curious, but somehow she makes cozy feel effortless. I love watching her stretch in the sunlight, or just nap in a sunbeam. It reminds me to pause and notice the small things I usually rush past.

Of course, part of keeping Hygge alive with a cat means keeping the space fresh. Nothing kills a cozy vibe faster than a litter box that smells funky. I’ve been using Tidy Cat, and it’s honestly one of those little practical things that makes relaxing with her possible without even thinking twice.

I’ve started trying to turn ordinary routines into these tiny Hygge rituals. Morning light streaming in through the windows is my cue for a slow stretch, a quiet coffee, and a little check-in with Luna as she inspects the room for “hidden treasures.” Evenings are my favorite: soft lighting, blankets tossed over the couch, and a few rounds of her favorite toys. Sometimes I light a candle (safely!) and just watch her explore or nap. There’s something so grounding about watching her do her thing, completely content.

The thing about Hygge is that it’s not something you schedule or force, it’s about noticing the little things and choosing to make them feel special. For me, it’s more than comfort, it’s gratitude, presence, and connection. Luna has been with me through moves, travels, and all the little chaos life throws at you, and practicing these cozy rituals with her makes me appreciate every day a little more.

Whether I’m curled up with a book, sipping tea, or just soaking in a quiet moment with her, I’ve realized that Hygge isn’t just a concept…it’s most definitely a lifestyle. And honestly, having Luna there to share it with is the best part of all. In 2026, I’m making it a goal to create more of these little Hygge moments with her. Soft blankets, warm drinks, gentle light, and a little help from Tidy Cat to keep our space fresh. It’s simple, it’s joyful, and it’s exactly the kind of mindful practice I didn’t know I needed, but now, I can’t imagine starting a day without it.

Cold weather affects pets in different ways. Indoor pets may become less active, which can lead to weight gain or boredom, while outdoor pets face chilly temperatures that can impact their joints and overall comfort. Dry indoor air can also affect skin and fur, and seasonal changes may influence appetite and immunity. Paying attention to these shifts helps pets thrive all season long.

Nutrition plays a key role in winter wellness. Pets may need slightly more energy to maintain body heat, but it’s also important that their diet supports immunity, coat health, and overall wellbeing. High-quality, complete diets, like Purina ONE for cats and dogs, provide essential vitamins, minerals, and protein that help pets stay active and healthy. Maintaining a consistent feeding routine and monitoring portion sizes is especially helpful when activity levels fluctuate during colder months.

Keeping pets active is just as important as what they eat. Dogs can enjoy short walks, snowy adventures, or indoor games like fetch and tug to keep energy levels up. Cats benefit from interactive toys, puzzle feeders, and short play sessions to stay mentally and physically stimulated. Cold weather can even be an opportunity for extra bonding, cozy sweaters, heated resting spots, and indoor play strengthen your connection while keeping them comfortable.

Comfort matters too. Providing warm bedding away from drafts, keeping water bowls filled with fresh water, and maintaining grooming routines can prevent dry skin and mats. Older pets may need extra warmth to ease stiff joints, and short-haired pets may need a little extra protection when heading outdoors.

Winter wellness is about balance: proper nutrition, safe activity, and cozy care. Small adjustments, like consistent meals, indoor play, and warm resting spots, go a long way toward keeping pets happy and healthy. A well-fed, well-cared-for pet is a happy pet, and that’s what winter is really all about, comfort, connection, and joy.