Supplies:

• Ninja SLUSHi Slushie Machine

Ingredients:

• Favorite Blue Sports Drink
• Strawberry Puree

Directions:

1. Pour in your Sunny D.
2. Turn on and choose the Slush mode. 
3. Once the Slush cycle is complete, dispense into your favorite cup.
4. Add Strawberry Puree. 
5. Enjoy!

I can’t think of a better way to head back to school than with a delicious orange SLUSHi. I don’t think you can get more nostalgic than a delicious frozen drink made with a drink that was part of most of our childhoods. This installment of Operation Brain Freeze will be sure to deliver straight A’s from your kiddos. Be sure to check back next month for another fun recipe that will ensure you continue your reign as the coolest parent!

Find Out More with My Military Savings and Food & Drink!

The idea is simple: sign up, give your pet 28 days to try Purina ONE, when you receive a coupon for a FREE bag of Purina ONE dog or cat food to get started. Even better? If you have both a dog and a cat, you can sign up for each of them!!

Whether your pet is a picky eater, a snack enthusiast, or the unofficial pet that runs your  household, it’s an easy way to see how they like a new food without the usual guesswork. Who’s ready to see what their furry taste tester thinks? Take the Challenge with us this month! 

Find Out More with My Military Savings and Pets!

Shark Attack

• Blue Raspberry Drink Mix Packet
• Top with Cherry Syrup

Peachy Beach

• Orange Drink Mix Packet
• Peach Syrup

Hawaiian Luau

• Pineapple Punch Drink Mix Packet
• Coconut Syrup

Sunny Sipper

• Lemonade Drink Mix Packet
• Peach Syrup

Apple Pie a la Mode

• Green Apple Drink Mix Packet
• French Vanilla Syrup
• Caramel Drizzle

YUM! I hope you enjoy all of these delicious drinks to help you hit those hydration goals! It’s time to get your drink on with these tasty drinks!

You can print out the August Waters out now to add to your fridge or Hydration Station Binder!

Not sure where to begin? Make sure to check out our Getting Started blog!

Find Out More with My Military Savings and Warning…Wonderful Waters Ahead!

That’s just real life, especially in a military family. Things shift. Orders change. Schedules get unpredictable. Expenses show up out of nowhere, and somehow the little things end up being the big things. So, instead of trying to force a budget that no longer fits, I’ve learned to pause and adjust. 

This is the point in the year where I sit down and get honest with myself. Not the ideal version of how I wanted things to go, but what actually happened. Where did our money really go?

Not where I planned for it to go. Where it actually went. The extra gas from running back and forth. The convenience spending during busy weeks. The last-minute things for the kids. The random expenses that weren’t on any spreadsheet, but still happened anyway. However, instead of beating myself up over it, I use it. 

If I see a pattern, I adjust. I stop pretending we’re going to suddenly spend less in an area that clearly keeps coming up. That shift alone has made everything feel more manageable. I’m not constantly feeling behind or like I’m failing some invisible standard. I’m just working with what’s real. 

Then, I look ahead, because the second half of the year always has its own rhythm. Back-to-school costs start creeping in. The holidays are closer than they feel. Travel, if we’re trying to make it happen, needs to be thought about early. Plus, in military life, there’s always the possibility of schedule changes, training, or shifts in income that can throw everything off if you’re not paying attention.  I don’t try to predict everything. I just try not to be surprised by the obvious. 

I also take a minute to look at income, because that’s not always as steady as people assume. Between military obligations, civilian work, and any side income, things can fluctuate more than you expect. I want to know if what’s coming in still lines up with what’s going out.  If it doesn’t, I’d rather adjust now than feel that stress later. 

One of the biggest things I’ve learned is to give myself some breathing room.  Not a perfect savings plan. Not some picture-perfect financial goal that looks good on paper but doesn’t match real life. Just margin. Enough to handle the things that always come up, because they always do. Something with the car. Something with the house. Something for the kids. It’s never nothing. 

Being part of a military family has taught me that flexibility is not optional. So, I’ve stopped trying to make my finances rigid and started letting them move with us.  That doesn’t mean being careless. It means being aware. 

It means checking in before things feel tight. Making small adjustments instead of waiting until something feels overwhelming. Letting go of the idea that sticking to the original plan is the goal, because the goal isn’t perfection.  The goal is stability. 

Mid-year isn’t about starting over. It’s about realigning. Looking at where you are, where you’re headed, and making sure your money is actually supporting your life the way you need it to. 

Honestly, that kind of check-in has made more of a difference for me than any perfectly planned budget ever did. 

Find Out More with My Military Savings and Guard Life! 

As a child, and if I’m being honest, as an adult I never get tired of Shark Week! I also love a good theme, and when I get a chance to combine the two, that’s when the magic really happens! I knew that I couldn’t share my love of Shark Week with my kiddos without a fun drink. So, what better way to use my Ninja SLUSHi Slushie Machine than by making a Chum Bucket Slush!

Supplies:

• Ninja SLUSHi Slushie Machine

Ingredients:

• Favorite Blue Sports Drink
• Strawberry Puree
• Gummy Sharks

Directions:

1. Pour your Blue Sports drink into your Ninja SLUSHi Slushie Machine.
2. Turn on and choose the Slush mode.
3. Once the Slush cycle is complete, dispense into your favorite cup.
4. Add Strawberry Puree.
5. Garnish with a Gummy Shark
6. Enjoy!

What better way to enjoy the ocean than a fun themed slushie!?! Best part of it all, no sunscreen or sand cleanup are required! I hope you enjoyed this slushie recipe as much as I did. I had so much fun with this that I will be creating a monthly recipe just for YOU! So follow along and get ready for Operation Brain Freeze! I think it’s safe to say our first mission was a success.

Find Out More with My Military Savings and Food & Drink!

Don’t worry, I’m not one of those moms who likes to gatekeep her secrets; I will share my favorite things to ensure you spend your Back to School time more than just surviving and maybe even thriving! My kids never complain when I pack their favorite Lunchables in their lunchbox! I don’t know about you, but when I was a kid, only the coolest kids had those on the regular! Don’t tell my kids, but I still enjoy this nostalgic treat from time to time! Insert another nostalgic favorite with… OREO Minis. I don’t know why everything that is bite-sized just happens to taste better; this goes for both kids and adults! Now you’ll want a delicious drink to wash it down with, and you can’t ever go wrong with Capri Sun Roarin’ Waters. The sweetness of a juice and the hydration of a water, this is something both kids and adults love.

 Now that you have the perfect lunch packed, it’s time to feed those kiddos before, or often in my case, as you head out the door! I’ve got the perfect items to ensure you’re on time to the Drop Off Line! My oldest loves to grab Too Good: Strawberry Banana, and I love that he starts his day with 5 grams of protein! My two middle kids are always grabbing Danimals: Strawberry & Mixed Berry. They love these smoothies because they can continue to be on the go, and I love them because they’re made for growing kids! I can’t forget the littlest member of my crew, and for her, I’m always grabbing Happy Baby: Bananas, Raspberries & Oats. This is a favorite of hers, and they’re not kidding she’s one Happy Baby! I know that these favorites of ours will ensure you actually get to drink your coffee warm on the way to school! 

We did it! We survived drop off and we finally have a moment for ourselves. This is the perfect time to make a lunch that’s not only delicious but filled with fiber and protein that leaves us feeling great! What is on the menu you ask? Well I’m grabbing StarKist Chunk Light Tuna and another pantry staple, Bush’s Original Baked Beans. I always keep these items on hand because they’re the perfect quick lunch that I can feel good about! However, all this driving has left me quite parched. I love to treat myself to a Pink Lady Apple Health-Aid Kombucha. I know that this will help me better prepare for the calm before the storm…AKA School Pickup! 

The one thing that they don’t prepare you for in motherhood is all the germs that kids will bring home. Back to School time is a prime example of that, so before you head to get your favorite sidekicks, make sure you’re stocking your house, car, bathroom, purse, and their backpack with the tried and true favorite, Kleenex Facial Tissues. I love that these tissues are gentle enough for little noses, but still get the job done when sniffles enter the scene! 

I don’t know about you, but a practice run of my day sure does make me feel better about Back to School time looming on the horizon. Another thing that always makes me feel better is a good giveaway, so I’m excited to share that from July 13th through September 13th, five lucky winners will each receive a $100 Commissary Gift Card. Enter at MMSGiveaways.com. If that giveaway didn’t get you in the Back to School spirit, we’ll also be making a donation to the Fisher House Foundation Scholarship for Military Children Program. The program awards 500 scholarships of $2,000 each to military children at participating commissaries around the world every year.

So even though back-to-school time may feel a little chaotic with a trip to your favorite local Commissary, you will enter this era thriving and not just surviving! 

Patriotic Punch

• Cherry Drink Mix Packet
• Piña Colada Drink Mix Packet
• Blue Raspberry Drink Mix Packet

***Make sure to layer this one vs mix it all up to get the red, white, and blue effect!***

Orange Dream

• Orange Packet
• Vanilla Drink Mix Packet

Poolside Piña Colada

• Strawberry Pineapple Packet
• Coconut Drink Packet

Watermelon Bliss

• Watermelon Drink Mix Packet
• Kiwi-Lime Drink Mix Packet

Blue Hawaiian

• Blue Raspberry Drink Mix Packet
• French Vanilla Syrup

Oh my yum! Which one will you try out first?!?! I am absolutely in my Poolside Piña Colada era right now, while my husband is digging the Orange Dream one! Happy hydrating!

Looking for your printable version? Of course, we didn’t forget about that! Print out our July Waters paper now to display on your fridge or add to your Hydration Station binder!

Not sure where to begin? Make sure to check out our Getting Started blog!

Find Out More with My Military Savings and Warning…Wonderful Waters Ahead!

That’s what makes Click2Go Commissary Ordering such a convenient option for military communities.

With Click2Go, shoppers can order groceries online from participating base Commissaries and choose curbside pickup for an easier, faster shopping experience. Even better, some Commissaries now offer home delivery for customers within a 20-mile radius, depending on the location and availability.

It’s one of those simple services that can make a big difference in everyday life. Instead of wandering crowded aisles trying to remember everything on your list, you can order from home, stock up on essentials, and spend more time doing things you actually enjoy, like relaxing with your pets.

For pet owners, it’s especially convenient when it comes to grabbing the basics:

• Cat or Dog food and treats
• Litter and cleaning supplies
• Household essentials
• Pantry staples for busy weeks

Some days, grocery shopping feels productive. Other days, staying home in sweatpants with your cat or dog sounds significantly better. Click2Go helps make that possible.

Whether you’re managing a packed schedule, avoiding another last-minute store run, or simply wanting an easier way to shop, the service offers a flexible option for military families looking to save time while keeping both their homes and pets well stocked.

Learn more about Commissary Click2Go and check whether your local Commissary offers pickup or delivery options.

Find Out More with My Military Savings and Pets!

I recently bit the bullet and finally decided to purchase a Ninja SLUSHi Slushie Machine and I have to tell you I haven’t looked back since! I know there’s something so fun and nostalgic about a Slushie, but now I can enjoy them in about 30 minutes at my house! I am the queen of kitchen gadgets and appliances and I have to be honest when I tell you a lot of them end up in the dreaded appliance graveyard! However, that really hasn’t been the case with our SLUSHi machine! I know we’re in the middle of summer, so this machine is truly bringing all the kids to my house, but we’re having a blast. What better way to embrace summer than with a cold SLUSHi on a hot day!?!

If slushes aren’t your jam that’s okay because this machine has 5 preset features that are sure to deliver a frozen treat that everyone can enjoy! You can make spiked slushes. I haven’t tried this feature yet, but it looks like there are quite a few recipes ideas that are sure to please everyone! You can even make a Frappe! This is such a budget-friendly option when you don’t want to spend $8 on your favorite coffee treat. There’s an option for milkshakes and we’ve enjoyed coming up with fun recipes that taste better than the local ice cream shop! There’s also a preset for Frozen Juices. It doesn’t get much easier than throwing in your favorite beverage and pushing a button! It really is that simple. My family has had a blast coming up with fun recipe ideas that we can’t wait to share with you!

I was a little nervous about cleanup but seriously this machine practically cleans itself with the Rinse option! It comes apart nicely and truth be told clean up is a breeze. It’s good to know that you won’t dread those SLUSHi request because of a tedious clean up process. Ninja really thought of it all when they came up with this machine.

So, if you’re been on the fence about adding a SLUSHi machine to your appliance lineup let this be the sign from the universe that you’ve been waiting for! Not sure what you’re going to make in your machine? Well never fear because I’ve let my imagination run wild and I’ll be bringing you monthly themed SLUSHi ideas that are all kid tested and approved by my own family! So be on the lookout for the next installment of Operation Brain Freeze and we will be sure to keep that SLUSHi machine out of your appliance graveyard!

Find Out More with My Military Savings and Food & Drink!

They’re the free programs, services, and support resources available through the military community. From financial counseling and career support to child care assistance and crisis resources, these programs can help families navigate challenges, reduce stress, and avoid costly setbacks. Here are some of the resources every military family should know about.  

Military OneSource – If there’s one resource every military family should bookmark today, it’s Military OneSource. Military OneSource provides free support, expert consultations, and confidential assistance for a wide variety of military life challenges.

• Available services include:
  • Financial counseling and money management support
  • Budget planning assistance
  • Career coaching
  • Relationship resources
  • Parenting support
  • Elder care consultations
  • PCS and transition assistance
  • Confidential non-medical counseling
• Whether you’re creating a budget, preparing for a move, exploring a new career opportunity, or navigating a major life change, Military OneSource can connect you with trusted experts at no cost. 
• Phone: 800-342-9647
• Website: militaryonesource.mil
• Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Financial Emergencies Happen – Even the most carefully planned budget can be impacted by unexpected expenses. A vehicle breaks down. Emergency travel becomes necessary. Housing costs increase unexpectedly. A family emergency arises. Military relief organizations exist to help eligible military families through these situations before financial hardship becomes overwhelming. 

• Army Emergency Relief (AER) – Army Emergency Relief provides financial assistance to eligible Soldiers and their families facing unexpected financial challenges.
  • Website: armyemergencyrelief.org 
• Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society (NMCRS) – The Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society offers financial assistance and educational programs designed to help Sailors, Marines, and their families achieve financial stability.
  • Website: nmcrs.org 
• Air Force Aid Society (AFAS) – The Air Force Aid Society supports Airmen, Guardians, and their families through financial assistance and community support programs. 
  • Website: afas.org
• Coast Guard Mutual Assistance (CGMA) – Coast Guard Mutual Assistance provides financial and educational support programs for Coast Guard members and their families.
  • Website: cgmahq.org 
• Depending on eligibility and circumstances, assistance may be available for: 
  • Emergency travel
  • Rent or housing expenses
  • Utility bills
  • Vehicle repairs
  • Essential living expenses
  • Disaster-related needs
  • Family emergencies
• Knowing these organizations exist before a crisis occurs can save both money and stress.  

Protect Your Financial Wellness by Supporting Your Mental Wellness – Financial stress rarely exists on its own.  Major life challenges, deployments, relationship challenges, caregiving responsibilities, and mental health concerns can all impact a family’s financial well-being. That’s why military families have access to several free support resources.  

• Military and Family Life Counseling (MFLC) – Military and Family Life Counselors provide free, confidential, non-medical counseling to help military families navigate everyday challenges. 
  • Support is available for: 
    • Stress management
    • Relationship concerns
    • Parenting challenges
    • Deployment-related stress
    • Grief and loss
    • Military transitions
  • Contact your installation’s Military and Family Support Center to learn about available services.
• Installation Behavioral Health Resources – Most military installations offer behavioral health and mental health services through military treatment facilities and support centers. Taking advantage of available resources early can help prevent challenges from becoming larger issues later. 

Career Resources for Military Families – Military families often face career disruptions to PCS moves, deployments, and changing duty assignments.  Fortunately, several military-focused programs exist to help spouses and service members build long-term career success. 

• Military Spouse Employment Partnership (MSEP) – The Military Spouse Employment Partnership connects military spouses with employer partners committed to recruiting, hiring, promoting, and retaining military spouse talent.  These employers understand military life and unique challenges military spouses face. 
• SECO Career Center – The Spouse Education and Career Opportunities (SECO) program provides: 
  • Career coaching
  • Resume assistance
  • Interview preparation
  • Education guidance
  • Employment resources
  • Learn more through Military OneSource. 
• Investing in your career can create long-term financial stability for your family, and these resources are available at no cost. 

Child Care Support for Military Families – Child care is one of the largest expenses many families face.  Military families may be eligible for programs that help connect them with quality care and reduce out-of-pocket costs. 

• Child Care Aware® of America – Child Care Aware of America helps eligible military families access quality child care and fee assistance programs. 
  • Website: childcareaware.org
• MilitaryChildCare.com – MilitaryChildCare.com is the Department of War’s gateway for military-operated and military-subsidized child care programs worldwide. For many families, these programs can provide both financial savings and peace of mind. 
  • Website: militarychildcare.com 

Resources for Veterans – Veterans and their families have access to a wide range of benefits and services through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. 

• Department of Veterans Affairs
  • The VA offers benefits and services that support Veterans throughout every stage of life, including: 
    • Health care services
    • Mental health care
    • PTSD treatment
    • Telehealth appointments
    • Women’s health services
    • Caregiver support
    • Housing resources
    • Benefits assistance 
  • Phone: 877-222-VETS (8387)
  • Website: va.gov
  • Many Veterans are eligible for programs and services they may not realize are available, making it worthwhile to explore available benefits regularly. 

Save These Numbers Before You Need Them – Some resources are important enough to keep readily available. 

• Veterans Crisis Line – Free, confidential support is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for Veterans, service members, National Guard and Reserve members, and those who support them. 
  • Call: 988, then Press 1
  • Text: 838255
  • Website: veteranscrisisline.net
• Emergency Services – If someone is in immediate danger or at risk of harming themselves or others: 
  • Call: 911
  • Visit: Your nearest emergency room

A Different Kind of Savings

At My Military Savings, we’re passionate about helping military families save money, but some of the most valuable savings don’t come from coupons, discounts, or cashback offers. They come from knowing where to turn when life becomes challenging. 

The right resource at the right time can help prevent financial hardship, reduce stress, support a career transition, strengthen a family, or provide help during a crisis. Save this guide. Bookmark it. Share it with a fellow military family, because one of the smartest investments you can make isn’t something you buy. It’s knowing how to access the benefits, programs, and support you’ve earned through military service. 

Find Out More with My Military Savings and Military Life & Family!