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.

Find Out More with My Military Savings and Finance!

Well in 2017 OREO created a mystery OREO flavor. Their buyers had the opportunity to guess the mystery flavor, and the best part was that there was a prize to be won if guessed correctly! In 2017 the mystery flavor was Fruity Pebbles. Again, how did I miss this? Fruity Pebbles was my favorite cereal growing up too! Now that two years have gone by, OREO decided they are going to release a mystery flavor again! Now, you can purchase the mystery flavor pack and start guessing what flavor it is! 

This year, one winner will be awarded $50,000. If I were you, I would prepare to head to your local Military Commissary and look for the white packaging in the OREO section. Maybe grab a few packages so you do not run out of OREO’s, while contemplating what the flavor could be. I would also gather a few friends or family members that have good taste buds and team up with them to guess the flavor, then split the money!

It is always fun to have a group of people together, guessing what it could and could not be. Maybe you could host a game night at your house where everyone comes and tries to guess with you! Good luck, and let the guessing games begin!

Visit NabiscoMilitary.com for more great treats and savings!