military Archives ~ The Military Move

Navigating Homeowners Insurance: What You Need to Know

September 14, 2023 No Comments

Homeowners insurance is a crucial financial tool that provides protection for your home and belongings in case of unexpected events. Understanding the key components of homeowners insurance is essential to ensure you have the right coverage for your needs. Here’s what you need to know:

Types of Coverage:

Dwelling Coverage: This covers the structure of your home, including the roof, walls, floors, and foundation. It’s essential to insure your home for its full replacement cost.
Personal Property Coverage: This covers your personal belongings, such as furniture, appliances, clothing, and electronics. Make sure to take inventory and estimate the value of your possessions.
Liability Coverage: This provides protection if someone is injured on your property, and you’re found liable. It also covers damage caused by your pets.
Additional Living Expenses (ALE) Coverage: ALE pays for temporary living expenses if your home becomes uninhabitable due to a covered event, like a fire or natural disaster.

Policy Types:

HO-3 Policy: This is the most common type of homeowners insurance policy and provides comprehensive coverage for your home and personal property. It covers a wide range of perils, except those specifically excluded.
HO-5 Policy: This is an upgraded version of HO-3, offering even broader coverage and fewer limitations.
HO-6 Policy: Designed for condo owners, this policy covers the interior of your unit and personal property.
HO-4 Policy: Known as renters insurance, it covers personal property and liability for renters but doesn’t cover the structure itself.
Coverage Limits: Your policy will have coverage limits for various categories, such as personal property, liability, and ALE. Make sure these limits are sufficient to cover your needs.
Deductibles: The deductible is the amount you pay out of pocket before your insurance kicks in. Choosing a higher deductible can lower your premium but means you’ll pay more if you file a claim.
Exclusions and Endorsements: Understand what perils are excluded from your policy. Common exclusions may include floods, earthquakes, and acts of terrorism. You can purchase additional coverage or endorsements for these excluded events if needed.
Premiums: Your premium is the amount you pay for your homeowners insurance. Factors that influence your premium include your location, the age and condition of your home, your credit score, and the coverage limits you choose.

Discounts: Insurance companies offer discounts for various reasons, such as bundling home and auto insurance, installing security systems, or having a good claims history. Inquire about available discounts to reduce your premium.
Claims Process: Understand how to file a claim with your insurance company. Document damage or loss thoroughly and keep all communication related to the claim. Be prepared to provide receipts, photos, and other evidence.
Review and Update: Periodically review and update your homeowners insurance policy to reflect changes in your home’s value, improvements, or changes in your circumstances.
Shop Around: Compare quotes from different insurance providers to ensure you’re getting the best coverage at the most competitive price. Don’t forget to consider the reputation and customer service of the insurer.
Legal Requirements: While homeowners insurance isn’t legally required in most states, if you have a mortgage, your lender will likely require it. Even if it’s not mandated, having homeowners insurance is highly advisable to protect your investment.
Read the Fine Print: Before purchasing a policy, carefully read and understand the terms and conditions. If you have questions or need clarification, don’t hesitate to ask your insurance agent.

Navigating homeowners insurance can be complex, but it’s a critical aspect of safeguarding your home and financial security. Take the time to assess your needs, compare policies, and make informed decisions to ensure you have the right coverage for your home and belongings.

If you know someone looking to move near a military base – please send them our website below where we provide loads of base information.

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If you are looking for a home in Washington – check us out at www.kelseyandjorge.com

Travel, Uncategorized

Must-Know Acronyms for Military Relocations

August 14, 2023 No Comments

When dealing with military relocations, understanding the various acronyms used in the process can be crucial. Here are some must-know acronyms related to military relocations:

PCS: Permanent Change of Station – This refers to the official relocation of a military member and their family to a new duty station.
TDY: Temporary Duty – A short-term assignment away from a military member’s permanent duty station.
CONUS: Continental United States – Refers to locations within the contiguous 48 states.
OCONUS: Outside Continental United States – Refers to locations outside the contiguous 48 states, including overseas assignments.
BAH: Basic Allowance for Housing – A monetary allowance provided to military members to cover housing costs when government housing is not available.
POV: Personally Owned Vehicle – A military member’s private vehicle.
TMO: Transportation Management Office – The office responsible for coordinating the transportation of household goods and personal effects during a relocation.
HHG: Household Goods – The belongings and personal items of a military member and their family that are transported during a relocation.
DITY/DITY Move: Do-It-Yourself Move – When a military member chooses to personally manage the packing, transportation, and unpacking of their belongings during a relocation and is eligible for reimbursement.
PPM: Personally Procured Move – Another acronym for a DITY move, where the military member arranges and pays for their own move and can be reimbursed by the government.

AHRN: Automated Housing Referral Network – An online resource that helps military members find suitable housing at their new duty station.
LES: Leave and Earnings Statement – A document that outlines a military member’s pay and deductions.
DEERS: Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System – The system that verifies the eligibility of family members for military benefits, including healthcare.
PCS Orders: The official documentation that outlines a military member’s relocation instructions, including destination, reporting dates, and other relevant details.
COLA: Cost of Living Allowance – An additional payment provided to military members stationed in high-cost areas to help offset the increased living expenses.
JTR: Joint Travel Regulations – The document that provides guidelines and regulations for military travel and relocation, including allowances and reimbursements.
POV Storage: Personally Owned Vehicle Storage – Temporary storage for a military member’s vehicle during a relocation.
CNA: Customer Notification Assistance – The process of notifying various organizations and agencies about a change in address during a relocation.
EFMP: Exceptional Family Member Program – A program that provides support and resources to military families with special medical or educational needs.
MWR: Morale, Welfare, and Recreation – Programs and services provided to enhance the quality of life for military members and their families during relocations.

Understanding these acronyms can help make the military relocation process smoother and less confusing. Keep in mind that military terminology can evolve over time, so it’s always a good idea to verify any changes with official sources.

If you know someone looking to move near a military base – please send them our website below where we provide loads of base information.

Travel

Military Travel Discounts

December 27, 2018 1 Comment

A growing number of businesses in the travel industry honor U.S. service women and men by providing them with some pretty outstanding military travel discounts.

What is presented here is only a sampling of what currently is available from some of the major players in the travel industry when it comes to discounters for military service personnel.

Keep in mind that oftentimes these companies not only have discounts for military service women and men currently on active duty but they also have programs for vets as well.

*This post may contain affiliate links – if you purchase something from this post, I receive a small commission with NO extra cost to you. To see my full disclosure click here. Thanks for supporting us!

Sandals

Sandals is a travel industry leader when it comes to all-inclusive travel packages. Sandals resorts are located at luxurious tropical destinations.

At this time, Sandals is offering military service personnel with an across the board benefit. Active military service women and men get 10 percent off of any Sandals package. This discount applies to those packages that are already discounted.

In addition to a discount on all Sandals packages, different Sandals destinations oftentimes have special perks available for military service personnel. The company publicizes its ongoing commitment to thanking our troops for their service to our nation.

Norwegian Cruise Lines

Norwegian Cruise Lines is a travel industry leader when it comes to cruises. Norwegian Cruise Lines is also committed to honoring out troops.

The company offers active military service personnel with an array of different discounts on its multitude of cruises each year. Benefits include discounts on nearly every cruise the company offers throughout the course of any given year.

Norwegian Cruise Lines offers military service personnel added on-board benefits as well. These benefits for military service women and men and their families are in addition to discounts on cruise prices.

These different perks and benefits vary from one cruise to another.

Westgate Resorts

Westgate Resorts has consistently been dedicated to supporting the men and women who serve our nation in the armed services. Westgate Resorts rightly refers to these brave people as “our nation’s greatest heroes.”

Westgate Resorts offers a special discount packager to all military service personnel. Men and women from the U.S. armed forces receive special 10 percent military travel discount at any Westgate property.

The Westgate Resort discount program is one of the easiest to access and use in the travel industry. All a person needs to is make note that he or she is a member of the armed services when making a reservation and the discount automatically is applied. At the time of check-in, a service member need only present his or her military ID.

All Westgate Resort properties participate in the military discount program. Westgate has spectacular five-star resorts located across the United States.

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AARP

AARP is well-known for the array of discounts offered to its members. Veterans are not forgotten by the AARP as the organization offers many specialized programs for vets and their families. These include access to a variety of travel discounts.

There are AARP members who are still on active duty. As a result, the organization has additional discount travel benefits for men and women on active duty as well, benefits that extend to their families.

Expedia

Expedia is one of the largest comprehensive online travel services in operation today. Expedia provides a full spectrum of travel services, including booking air travel, hotel rooms, and so forth.

Expedia is also home to an array of travel bargains available in all sectors. Through Expedia, members of the military service can access an array of different types of travel discounts. These discounts include everything from airfare to lodgings and other travel related benefits.

Disney Resorts and Cruises

Over the course of many years, the Disney Company has been highly supportive of women and men in uniform. This remains the case today, including when it comes to special deals available from Disney at its resorts and on its cruises.

Members of the military service can obtain discounts for stays at any of the many Disney resort properties in the United States and elsewhere around the world. This includes discounts on lodging, admission to attractions, and many other offerings at a Disney resort property. A person on active duty, and his or her family, can also receive discounts on Disney package vacations. Want to see how one family was able to enjoy Disney on a budget? Click here.

In addition to discounts at resorts, Disney also offers military benefits on its cruises as well. Members of the military forces can obtain healthy discounts on the prices of cruise packages.

Many other enterprises in the travel industry offer discounts, special packages, and other benefits to military service personnel. When a member of the armed forces is planning a trip, it is always wise to ask what discounts or benefits may be available to a service member.

Wyndham Armed Forces Vacation Club

In order to honor men and women in the military service, Wyndham created the Armed Forces Vacation Club. The Armed Forces Vacation Club is open to all active members of the military branches.

One of the unique benefits offered via the Armed Forces Vacation Club is special access to Space-A stays. Space-A allows people, including families, rental options at travel destinations.

Military service personnel have access to $349 for weeklong Space-A stays in rental properties at different locations across the country. This truly represents one of the most affordable lodging options in the industry.

Getting ready to take a trip? Check out the most needed essentials here. Need some travel tips for your baby, click here. Have questions about traveling via airplane, check out this article on Airline Travel Tips.

If you found this advice, or any of my advice helpful, please consider buying from one of my affiliates at no additional cost to you and supporting The Military Move. When you click and make a purchase within 24 hours (at no additional charge), we receive a small donation. Thank you!

Family, Health

The Secret to Coping with PTSD

July 23, 2018 No Comments

Dogs are widely utilized to assist men and women who suffer from post traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD. There are a number of specific reasons why dogs can help heal a person afflicted with PTSD.

Dogs are Vigilant in Watching Over Their Owners

One of the reasons dogs can assist in coping with PTSD arises from the fact that they are truly vigilant. Researchers have concluded that the vigilance of a dog, in relationship to his or her owner, is akin to soldiers and the buddy system in the military.

A person who has a nightmare with a dog in the room can better appreciate the level of vigilance associated with a canine.

When a person wakes up from a nightmare, a dog provides cues and information to assure his or her owner was not experiencing something real.

Dogs can be helpful in this manner when it comes to assisting their owners suffering from the symptoms of PTSD.

A dog’s vigilance aids a person afflicted with post-traumatic stress in discerning what is a real issue and what is a symptom of the condition.

Dogs are Protective of Their Owners

Another attribute of dogs that contribute to their ability to aid in healing a person with PTSD is found in the fact that canines are highly protective of their owners.

Many dogs are literally inclined to fight to their very death if it meant protecting their owners from harm.

This type of protective behavior is highly beneficial to a person diagnosed with PTSD. The protective behavior of canines wards off perceived threats to an owner with post-traumatic stress.

Moreover, a person with this diagnosis is more confident to go about activities of daily living knowing he has a protective friend at his or her side.

Dogs Love Their Owners Unconditionally

A key problem many individuals with PTSD have is a perception that they are unloved. In addition, trust is a major issue for individuals diagnosed with PTSD.

Another one of the different reasons why dogs aid in healing a person afflicted with PTSD is the fact that canines love unconditionally.

A person with PTSD never has to question whether or not his or her canine companion loves him or her.

Further, a person with PTSD has a real difficult time maintaining, let alone establishing, loving relationships with other people.

A symptom of the condition is that individuals with PTSD perceive themselves as being unlovable. This line of negative thinking is discounted in the face of the devotion of a canine.

In addition, a dog is thoroughly trustworthy.

From this trust of a canine, a person with PTSD is able to begin building a foundation upon which he or she can start trusting fellow humans.

Dogs Understand and Remember Feelings of Love

Another way in which a dog is helpful in healing PTSD is that they are not turncoats. This is associated with the unconditional love of a dog towards his owner.

The reality is that even the best behaved dog is not perfect. He or she will cause problems and need to be scolded.

With that noted, a dog does not hold grudges or stop caring for his or her owner merely because he has been disciplined for doing something wrong. In other words, a canine has the ability to understand he or she has made some sort of mistake.

But, a dog also remembers and maintains the feelings of love he or she has for his human — and that his human has in return.

Dogs Encourage an Owner to Get Out of the House

Many people with PTSD hole up at home. They fear and dread going out in public and limit their time away from home. A dog aids in healing a person with PTSD by making it easier for a person with that condition to get out of the house.

By getting out of the home with greater frequency, a person with PTSD is able to engage in positive activities. This includes interacting in a positive manner with other people.

Getting out of the home provides a person with PTSD with ever increasing control over his or her life, all because of the supportive assistance of a loving canine.

With increasing regularity, specially trained dogs are becoming key components in the lives of individuals with PTSD.

These canines truly provide a person with PTSD the support and security necessary to begin living a happier, healthier life.

In fact, even pooches lacking in special training can prove to be utterly invaluable to a person with PTSD.

About the Author

Jessica Kane is a writer for Handicapped Pets, your most trusted source for dog wheelchairs and harnesses.

Travel

The Best Hotels for Military Families with Pets

June 21, 2018 3 Comments

We just completed our 9 day (turned 10 day) cross country move from Georgia to Washington. There was a lot of prep work and a lot of lessons learned along the way.

For the most part, our hotels were great and one was, well…not the best!

However, everywhere we stayed accommodated dogs for a reasonable price with some preparation beforehand.

Making Cross Country Travel Plans

If you read any of my social media posts about our crazy cross country trip, you will know that we had quite the adventure.

On day 3 of our adventure, we had to spend an extra night in Texas, and I spent 2 hours calling 6 hotels and rescheduling our entire trip.

Most hotels kept us locked at our original rates, and a few changed it to match their current daily rate.

So as a military family (or any family that meets challenges on the road), you want a hotel that is flexible.

When you are traveling – there are a number of things you want to plan.

Create a travel plan. I used Google Maps and put in the starting and final location.

Remember that traveling with children and pets will add to your travel time.

Also, if you are driving a moving truck – you will need to account for the moving truck.

When we went through the Rockies, my husband could only go 40mph climbing those mountains.

Plan for multiple breaks.

Decide on your route. I chose locations that were about 4-6 hours from each other.

When I chose my locations, I did it thinking that we would need to add an additional 90 minutes to fuel, grab food, and use the restroom.

I did this by looking at the map and gauging how far apart each location was.

I started moving the map to find towns that would fit the time span, had a decent selection of hotels, and was outside of downtown major cities.

This is why Google Maps works perfectly (it shows distance and time between two points).

You can choose your route however you please – quickest route, sightseeing route, family route, etc.

I have always wanted to see Colorado. So we planned our trip around that.

It was well worth it!

Start booking hotel reservations. Be sure to have a calendar of your dates. I used Expedia to look at hotels in an area.

When I started making plans, I had my Google Calendar out (hard copy works great here if you use one).

I jotted down each location that was expected for each day. As you saw from above, I started playing with towns close to each other on the map based on the hotel selection.

I would check out the hotels in each place based on our budget and user reviews and pictures.

For me, safety and convenience was key. I wanted to make sure it wasn’t too remote nor did I want it right off the interstate.

I would take the address of the hotel and Google it, then look at the street view of the maps to see what was around it.

Surprisingly, I made a lot of decisions this way. Especially when the price point was similar.

We also avoided big cities like Dallas and New Orleans and opted to stay right outside to avoid the traffic.

Book the hotel by calling them individually and asking for a military rate. I saved tons this way and sometimes got an upgrade.

So even though I used a travel website to look for hotels around an area (and as a way to know where to stop), I did not make the reservations this way.

Get on the phone with each hotel and ask them for a military rate (you could even say that you are traveling on orders).

Do not call the number on the travel sites though, as this is THEIR call center to make reservations.

I google the hotel (based on the address given on the travel site) and on the right side of the screen, it will give the map, phone number, and address.

Call that number!

I paid on average $20 cheaper than any listed price.

Also, be sure to ask the hotel if they can accommodate your moving truck size.

This was a problem at one of the hotels we stayed at, but luckily they owned a sister hotel that let us park there.

We loved staying at the hotel above – if you are in the Colorado Springs area, give it a try. Click here for their website.

Write down your confirmation numbers (I had mine in a small notebook I carried with me in my purse) and ask them to email you a copy.

After speaking to the front desk about your reservation, be sure to ask them them for your confirmation number.

You should also get them to email it to you and go ahead and print out that copy.

Print out your confirmations and put them in your PCS notebook.

Need a PCS guide? Get it below for FREE! I promise not to SPAM You!

Get your FREE download here to be delivered straight to your inbox. Again, I promise to never spam your inbox.

Now see the best hotels here for traveling with pets.

We stayed at a Sheraton, two La Quinta’s, an Extended Stay, two Colorado resorts, two Best Western Plus’, and a Holiday Inn Express.

So which hotel was the best for the budget?

La Quinta was the only hotel we consistently found to have $0 pet fee.

That’s right, nada!

Most of their hotels are pet friendly.

As long as Starsky and Hutch don’t make a mess or damage the room, you will not incur any additional costs.

Most of the pet fees are either pet pet, per day, or per accommodation (per room for length of stay).

Be sure to ask!

Many of the fees ranged from $10 to $50 depending on the hotel we stayed at.

Resorts are typically more expensive , so keep that in mind.

If you have dogs that are barkers, and you planned on sightseeing, you may want to look into a doggie daycare as the hotel can ask you to leave.

Other Helpful Tips

If you are traveling or in the middle of a big move, don’t forget quarters for laundry. Be sure to pack a laundry bag. We found that after about day 6, we just wanted to have some clean extra clothes.
Most hotels with pools have complimentary towels at the pool, so no need to waste your bath towels.
When you book your reservations, be sure to give them any accommodations you would prefer (ground floor, near ice machines, near stairs/elevators, etc.).

About the Author

Kelsey Ramirez is a Real Estate Broker in western Washington. She is also a veteran elementary school teacher, military wife, and mom to two daughters. She is the founder of The Military Move, a military-based website to help families in the PCS process. Kelsey loves to travel, write, and create amazing content. She has her Masters in Technology, which she uses to learn all new things digital.

With three decades of military support, Kelsey’s mission is to help new and existing military families in their unique adventures through all military topics including PCSing, budgeting, school choice and rights, housing, and especially just being a military spouse.

Family, Travel

The Best Tips for Military Families at Disney

April 10, 2018 No Comments

Disney World is one of the most magical places on Earth. From the smells, the treats, the rides, the characters, and the smiling and friendly staff, Disney is a favorite vacation location for us.

Want to know how we did Disney in a week for less than $2,500 for a family of 4 (at the time it was 3 adults, both parents, a grandparent, and 1 child)? I will share my budget and tips for how we made amazing memories in the happiest place on earth!

We love Disney so much, my daughter and I have been 4x in the last two years with a combination of different family members and friends.

Buy Military Tickets

We bought Military Tickets through the ITT office at our local base. The great part of this was that we plugged this into the MyDisney app and were able to order our Magic Bands ahead of time.

This also let us choose our Fast Passes, which saves you major time.

You can get these tickets also at Shades of Green; however, if you are not staying there – plan to get there, park, go in, stand in line, buy tickets, etc.

I do not recommend this if you plan on going to the parks the first day you get there – as this is wasting valuable time.

You can also get military rates at the park, but you will pay taxes on it.

One exception is the Florida Resident Tickets. If the member has a home of record in Florida, this can be a cheap option as well.

Call Disney Reservations

We did not stay at Shades of Green. We went during Spring Break – one of the busiest times of year.

They were completely booked.

However, we still stayed on the grounds.

Staying on the grounds means you don’t have to pay for transportation or parking at the gate ($20 per park).

By calling Disney, they will give you military rates (usually up to 40% depending on the class of hotel) on your stay.

When you call, they will ask you if you prefer Value, Moderate, or Deluxe rooms and will find you the cheapest resort with availability.

My daughter was into Disney movies at the time so we chose the Disney All-Star Movie Resort – we got it for less than a $100 a night (about $94).

On another note, we also stayed in Coronado Springs during our Christmas stay and got a great rate ($120) because they were doing construction – which we did not care because we were in the park.

They gave us these cool pins as well. If you, or child, collects pins – these were a fun addition that you can’t buy at the shops or kiosks.

Bring Your Own Food

When you can, bring your own food. We chose not to do the dining plan.

BUT, we still ate on the grounds every day.

We even had breakfast at Be Our Guest (the Beauty and the Beast themed restaurant), and several other quick service Disney restaurants.

However, this area we could save money by bringing food with us. We were within driving distance, so we could use this to our advantage.

We bought food from the store that we could supplement for snacks and mostly breakfast.

If your room has a full freezer/fridge – take advantage of frozen breakfast foods, for example.

Cereals, croissants, pastries, and bagels are great for some breakfast meals where you do not have to pay in the park.

We also brought tons of snacks in our backpacks (Sun Chips, packets of nuts, Motts gummies, really any snack food that doesn’t melt in the HOT Florida sun! This saved us from buying tons of ice cream, popcorn, and pretzels.

Bring a Backpack

A backpack can serve as a diaper bag for young children, but it also helps with older children too.

If they are old enough, they can carry their own string back pack (like this one).

We carried bottled water (we brought a case with us) in our backpack as bottled water is about $4.00 a bottle in the park (obviously, tap water is free, or go to Starbucks – they give you free water).

We stuck all of our snacks in there as well.

Backpacks are also a great place for holding ALL the things that will occupy your time in the long lines (should you go during a high season time).

Prepare for Lines, Heat, and Rain

Long lines in peak season means bored children.

Many rides have entertaining features, but there are some that well, are less thrilling.

Bring things to occupy their time.

We brought bubbles, stickers and a notebook, and a cheap digital camera.

It is hot in Florida – of course. You can fall victim to the heat. Be sure to pack sunscreen and these cool mini-spray fans.

We each had one, which are powered on batteries – and could mist ourselves whenever, wherever.

Also prepare by bringing ponchos. Ponchos in Disney World are much more expensive. Get yours here.

It is Florida and can rain at any moment – be prepared for it! Usually when it rains, the parks clear out, so use that time to jump in line for rides.

Check out this Disney Crowd Calendar from Touring Plans here to help you plan.

Disney Magic

To add to the experience, we packed Disney trinkets that we found at the Dollar Tree and Walmart (coloring books, figurines, stickers, stuffed animals like Minnie/Mickey).

This limits how much you buy in the parks – which will be way more expensive.

Each night after she went to bed, we stuck a Disney item out for her to find in the morning – starting the magic each morning.

If you are driving to Disney, you can find a lot of Disney items at the neighborhood Walmarts for a great price (collectibles, t-shirts, etc.).

Our Disney Budget

Hotel Stay – $94 per night for 5 nights = $470

Tickets through ITT – 5 days @ $984 or 4 days @ $904 for 3 adults, 1 child

Food – Lunch and dinner – $30 per person per day – $600

Character Dining Experience (Breakfast) – $140

Gifts (from home) – $20

Other incidentals (snacks, gifts, parent’s Starbucks) – $280 = 4 people at 5 days – $14 per person per day

Grand Total – $2,494

Can you spend more? Of course! Did we experience Disney on this budget? Most definitely! See some of my pro tips below!

Other Fabulous Tips

Umbrella Strollers

If you have a child under 5 – it is ideal to have a stroller of some sort. I have brought both of my strollers on different occasions.

Disney is HUGE. That is a lot of walking, no matter how many times you go back to the hotel.

Your child will be whining, your arms, shoulders, and neck will hurt from picking them up. Trust me, stick them in it and everyone will be happy!

Buy a cheap $20 umbrella stroller and take it with you.

It folds up on the buses if you stay on one of the many gorgeous properties, and when you have to do stroller parking – it takes up little room.

Not only that, but you can use it to reserve some space for the parades.

Park Hopper Tickets

When you purchase your tickets – be sure to add Park Hopper.

For Military tickets – it is usually included and well worth it.

Sometimes you want to do Animal Kingdom in the mornings and Magic Kingdom at night.

Animal Kingdom is VERY WARM especially from about March to October. So hitting it before peak sun is great.

Also, the animals tend to find shady parts to lie in during afternoon hours, which makes the Safari Ride not as enjoyable.

But there are a lot of exhibits to see neat things – and of course, I hear the new Pandora area is fabulous.

Magic Bands & Fast Passes

See that orange band on my daughter above?

Those are Magic Bands. You can get them even with ITT tickets.

They are the best technology Disney has come up with.

Your hotel room card, your Fast Pass, and your Credit Card can all be stored on this wristband.

You can select who has the Credit Card on their band (if you are worried there band may fall off). However, we never had an issue (even with 3 year old wrists).

You don’t have to carry cash with you, they just touch the Mickey and it goes straight onto your hotel bill.

It also stores your Fast Passes – which you MUST do if you want to maximize your time.

Fast Pass reservations can be made up to 60 days in advance.

Popular rides (Peter Pan, Splash Mountain, Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, Space Mountain) go quick, so make sure to book them.

You can also book passes to see characters.

She loved seeing all the princesses and her favorite Disney Jr characters (they are at Hollywood Studios).

Once you use your 3 Fast Passes you can get more that day (but generally, it is what is leftover).

Get the MyDisney App

If you have a Smartphone – you MUST have the MyDisney App.

Download it on every adult phone.

It has maps of the parks, wait times of every ride and character experience, times for the parades, and park hours.

You can also link your reservations so that you have access to your Fast Pass reservations.

Experience Disney During the Holidays

This is not a budget tip, but more of a confirmation if you are asking yourself this question. Should we do a special event?

Disney World has different special events throughout the year.

No-So-Scary Halloween

Very Merry Christmas Party

Star Wars Galactic Nights

We took a special trip last year to Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. It was an additional expense, but we loved it.

You get in at 4pm and experience Magic Kingdom decorated for Christmas.

Why did we enjoy this?

Limited crowds – so lines were much shorter.

Free goodies. They have the BEST Snickerdoodle cookies and hot chocolate. Seriously!

Characters are out in the park, and there is a short line to see them.

Disney Springs has Christmas trees decorated with all the major movie themes. Great to see them in the morning and go to the park in the evening.

Fireworks In Magic Kingdom

One of the best experiences at the Magic Kingdom is their nightly fireworks.

However, it is BEYOND crowded.

Everyone crowds to main street or the circular area right in front of the castle about 30-45 minutes before it starts.

However, we found a great area to see the fireworks as our own little secret (especially if you have seen the show before).

If you go to Adventureland, find the Swiss Family Treehouse. The bottom has a great view as well as the top (and it was filled with 3 families) – much more enjoyable.

However, you don’t get to see Tinkerbell fly.

If you HAVE seen the fireworks – this is the time when the busiest rides have hardly any wait – take advantage.

Go to Epcot

I hear the question asked, “If we can’t do all of the parks, which one should we drop?”

Do not choose Epcot to drop – if you have small children.

Here is why…

Epcot is filled with many countries – all with food and places to sit. You know what kids love? FOOD!

Not only that, but there are some very fun rides at Epcot.

The “Golf Ball” at Epcot was one of my daughter’s favorite rides – it is slow, but it takes them on a neat journey through time.

You also have the Frozen ride, Soarin™, The Land – which you ride on a slow moving boat and see all the hydroponics and greenhouses they have, the boat in Mexico (with Donald Duck), Finding Nemo (and the aquarium after it), Fast Track, and Mission Space.

If nothing else, hit it on it’s late hour days and do a 1/2 day with your Disney Park Hopper.

About the Author

Family

How to Win Over Your In-Laws

November 20, 2017 No Comments

I see it all the time. The countless posts about the “in-laws.” They don’t understand the military life. They don’t see their grown child enough. They don’t see the grand babies enough.

But this is not just a military issue, this is actually quite common for all types of families.

Whatever the case is, the holidays is usually the time when family gets together.

Sometimes it’s awkward, sometimes tense, rarely glorious – but undoubtedly, it elicits some type of emotion.

So how do you get those in-laws to be excited for your visit to turn that awkward or tense to happy and joyous family time?

Bring a Gift

Bringing gifts often show that you took the time to think of them and is another way to thank them for having you and the family in your home.

And when you are first starting out, before babies, you definitely want to win over your significant other’s parents.

Some protective momma’s look at women as taking their boys from them and some dads look at all men as undeserving – you want to kill this from the start.

Whether it be a bottle of her favorite wine, a framed picture of the kids, her favorite scented candle, or a six pack of his favorite beer – a small gift is an appreciative token.

Whether it be a bottle of her favorite wine, a framed picture of the kids, her favorite scented candle, or a six pack of his favorite beer - a small gift is an appreciative token.

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Chip In

The holidays bring big feasts, but any time of the year, this tip can be applied.

Show that you can get your hands dirty. Ask to help in the kitchen by peeling potatoes, cutting vegetables, or even cleaning dishes. My mother-in-law cooks and enjoys to cook. However, I still ask to help with small tasks just to help out in some way.

Watch sports with your father-in-law (my father loves this), or RV shows like my father-in-law likes. Help him change the oil in his car or fix whatever he is fixing.

The idea is to just chip in some way to show you care.

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Compliment and Smile

Kill ’em with kindness. Things have not always been easy with my own in-laws. Those that have easy relationships with their in-laws from start to finish are lucky.

However, you can take this small amount of time to make your partner happy.

Find something to compliment – their new decor, the garden, a new haircut, the holiday scent in their house – anything.

And regardless of how you feel, just smile. Put differences aside and smile. You will feel better, at least for a little while, for focusing on the positive.

You never know when your small actions may make a change from those tense moments to happy ones.

Win One Over

If all else fails, choose one (if you can), and win that one over.

For women, it may be easier to win over the dad.

For men, mom’s may be easier.

Connect, get interested, share. Show them why your loved one loves you.

Most likely, if you get one on your side, they will work on the other on your behalf.

Connect, get interested, share. Show them why your loved one loves you.

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I have been in those shoes. We did not visit enough, I came off the wrong way, and things went horrible for a while. However, it was not permanent.

I found a way to let things go and slowly worked on building up my relationship again. You CAN too!

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About the Author

Family, Housing, Spouses

Making Sure You are Prepared For An Emergency

September 3, 2017 2 Comments

How Do I Know

I was 3 when Hurricane Hugo hit South Carolina, living in Myrtle Beach, we had to evacuate. Hurricane Matthew last year forced us to evacuate when it was projected to be a direct hit as a Category 4.

Luckily, we did not see the devastation as it downgraded and skirted more north.

However, I did stay through Hurricane Bertha, Hurricane Gaston, Hurricane Ida, Hurricane Fran, Hurricane Irene, and Tropical Storm Sandy (which hit us on the southern end in Maryland).

I learned several key things through going through those storms that I want to share.

Search and Rescue

My husband conducted search and rescue for 8 years prior to us coming to a security unit. I know how hard that was on him after back to back missions, so I cannot imagine how days of continuous rescues would be after watching the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey.

Search and rescue during city wide emergencies takes the community coming together.

I was so touched and thankful for the residents of Texas at how they came together to help their neighbors.

Complete strangers, such as the Cajun Navy, came with their boats ready to step in and help local officials.

Millions around the country donated, and emergency personnel including police, fire rescue, National Guard, and the Coast Guard worked around the clock.

However, as tirelessly as they worked, there was loss of life, and I want to help lower those chances!

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Search and rescue during emergencies takes the community coming together

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Planning for an Emergency

Emergencies are not always forecasted. You cannot plan for tornadoes, flash floods, or earthquakes.

However, these events can wreak havoc on homes and families. Some people like to be spontaneous, but in this case, it’s important to have a plan for the “what-if.”

Emergency Notebook

I have a PCS (permanent change of station, for my non-military people) Notebook that has every important document I need when we move.

This serves a dual purpose because when we evacuate for storms (which can be at least once a year), I throw that notebook in my car. Want to know what I think should be in your PCS/evacuation notebook (or want a sneak-peek into mine)? If so, enter you email below and I will immediately send you the pdf.

Home Emergency Supplies

Whether it be a hurricane, tornado, earthquake, or minor flood, these items will help if you have them on-hand.

Water is usually a commodity that people do not hoard as they are drinking it. However, having a case of water (about $2.50 for 32 bottles at Wal-Mart) can help when you are in a bind and the water is off.

However, batteries for flashlights, a first-aid kit or makeshift one (band-aids, gauze, Tylenol or Motrin, ace bandage, etc.), and cash are important.

Why cash? Because when power goes out, systems go down – and you may need that cash handy.

IF you have a rainy-day fund – I suggest at least $250. This can help if you need to get gas, food, or if you have to leave because it is so bad.

Take photos of the things in your home (all expensive things especially) and the outside of your home (as proof for your insurance company). I have this on my portable hard drive to take if we evacuate.

Keep reading for what steps you need to take when a storm is projected to come.

Car Supplies

Do you remember seeing the images of TONS of stranded motorists in Atlanta in 2014?

Let me remind you (compliments of CNN)…

Drivers were in stand still traffic, the roads became a skating rink, and cars started to become stranded.

In the winter, you want to includes these things in case you are caught in a freak storm like this.

Be sure to have in your car:

Blanket and jacket/sweather (to provide warmth when you have to turn off the engine to save gas)
Non-perishable food (some sort of food supply to hold you over until traffic moves, ice melts, or help comes)
Few bottles of water
Pair of socks and mittens/gloves (again sustained warmth)

All of these things together can be in your trunk or behind a seat and is worth it if you find yourself in this predicament.

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Some people are spontaneous. During a storm, it is important to have a plan

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When the Storm is Coming

To evacuate or to “shelter in place,” that is the question.

When a hurricane or tropical storm is headed towards you, you have an important decision to make. Only you can make that decision for you and your family; however, let some factors guide you.

Do you have small children? If yes, you may want to consider leaving as losing electricity can alter their routine. If you have ever changed bed-time, you know what I mean.
Are they calling for floods? Unfortunately, southern Texas just saw what torrential rain did to their region – devastating losses for both property and life. Are you prepared to get on your roof with pets and kids until you can be saved?
Do you have a physical ailment – such as a debilitating disease, wheel-chair bound, or even pregnancy that would make leaving after the storm with unknown circumstances much harder?
Is your home classified as “unsafe” – most pre-fabricated homes or beach homes may not withstand high winds or storm surge.
Are you ready to “rough” it? When Matthew hit here, while we did not get a lot of damage – the public water source was unable to handle the back-up of water flow. Many homes got pretty stinky with back-up.

Prepare, Prepare, Prepare

You made the decision to “shelter in place.” So where do you start?

High winds? Start boarding up those windows (not taping, as this can make it worse)- you don’t want to be in your home with a Category 2+ storm with your windows busting, and debris and glass going everywhere. Go to your nearest home improvement store.
Stock up on water (at least a gallon per person a day or about a case or two per person).
Non-perishable foods – foods that do not need refrigeration or power to cook.
Fill up the washing machine and bathtub for clean water for toilets (know your plumbing – basement toilets are not always the place to go).
Put water in Ziplock bags (quart size are best), Tupperware, cups, and clean trash cans. Freeze whatever water you can fit in your freezer – place some in fridge if electricity goes out.
Eat perishable food first from fridge when electricity goes out – fruit, veggies, yogurts, sandwich fixings, etc.
Batteries, batteries, batteries – did I say that before?
If you haven’t already – take photos of everything you do not have a receipt for.
Sandbags – put them by your front door, back door, side door, wherever you have a door, and garage.
Bring all lawn furniture inside – you do not want your lawn chairs and umbrella destroying a fence, etc.
Portable generators – IF you chose to purchase one – KNOW HOW TO USE IT – carbon monoxide poisoning is FATAL.
Propane – after the storm, you can cook on your grill if you still do not have electricity (bring inside, but don’t use during the storm).
Full tank of gas in your car (gas prices may soar after the storm).
Consider a CB radio as alternate communication.
Freeze a cup of water. Place a quarter on top of it. If you leave for any reason for an extended period, this will help you know how long you lost power. If the quarter is frozen inside the water (an no longer on top), you may want to consider restocking your fridge and freezer.
If you lose power, please strongly think about whether or not you can pay for the groceries without your insurance’s help. Yes, they will help you if you make a claim. However, this could cause problems down the road if you have to change your coverage. Try to only make BIG claims.

Emergency Evacuation

This is the choice many make or are told to make (if the military requires it).

Many commands or units decide before cities to mandatory evacuate families while the member deploys out with government assets.

If you find yourself in this position, have a plan and prepare to be flexible.

Evacuation Mode

Sometimes one of the hardest decisions is to leave all of your stuff behind; however, it could also be the one thing that saves your life. Here are some tips:

Get your PCS/Evacuation notebook that you downloaded from up above – this is one of the most important things.
Search for a hotel inland (look at the projected path to determine a distance away from the storm).
Military members have an evacuation location. While you do not necessarily have to go to that location, your entitlement is based on that location (keep this in mind, or look up hotels to get an average price point).
Be prepared for roads to be insane – pack a car charger or GPS to travel back roads.
Take water, snacks, travel games (small puzzles, coloring books, iPad, books) for the kids, and wear comfy clothes.
Keep ALL receipts.
Fill up your tank (if you haven’t already) before you get on the interstate.
Pull out cash (if you can).
Before you leave, pack whatever valuables that cannot be replaced (jewelry pieces, small keepsakes or family heirlooms), a portable hard drive or SD card, and enough clothes for a week.
Have contact information for your ombudsman or family members.

If you are military, read this article (I am actually quoted in it) from Military.com on entitlement information (or how to get paid for leaving).

Have you had to evacuate? Tell us your experience in the comments below, and be sure to download my PCS notebook!

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About the Author

Travel, Travel Guide

Seattle Quick Guide

June 2, 2017 No Comments

Sleepless in Seattle, Grey’s Anatomy, Frasier, An Officer and a Gentleman.

All cinematic or television that may come to mind when you think of the beautiful city of Seattle.

It could be the Space Needle, the Puget Sound, Starbucks, or Pike Place. Whatever it is, Seattle has many treasures within the beautiful city that is known for it’s rainy weather. Surrounded by mountains, water, and forests, many locals enjoy the scenery of this Washington town.

Becoming a local? You can benefit from different services found at the Seattle Government website found here.

The Quick Guide below is a list that will help you navigate the city on your next vacation or upcoming move to the city.

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Ferry boat riding is a MUST. Take a trip to Bainbridge Island, Kingston, or Bremerton.

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However, in downtown Seattle, you must check out a few places. The Space Needle has multiple things to do for couples and families. Pike Market has an assortment of vendors and restaurants to check out.Save

There is a hidden alley, I like to call the “Gum Wall.” It is one of those things you see once and go “Okay, I’ve seen it!”

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The Quick Guide below is a list that will help you navigate the city on your next vacation or upcoming move to the city.

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*This post contains affiliate links – if you purchase something from this post, I receive a small commission with NO extra cost to you. To see my full disclosure click here. Thanks for supporting us!

CityPass will get you all the best deals on the most iconic spots of Seattle with savings to you! Click above to save!

With a father that flys for a major airline, I am aware of travel necessities. Be sure to check my guide on travel essentials for the whole family.

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Be sure to check out my airline and airport travel tips before you go to make sure your trip goes smoothly. You will find airport arrival times, baggage information for each airline, tips for flying with children, and a tip for Active Duty to get through security fast.

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