Hobby Lobby Stores Face ObamaCare

A Letter from Hobby Lobby Stores CEO

By David Green, the founder and CEO of Hobby Lobby Stores, Inc.

When my family and I started our company 40 years ago, we were working out of a garage on a $600 bank loan, assembling miniature picture frames. Our first retail store wasn't much bigger than most people's living rooms, but we had faith that we would succeed if we lived and worked according to God's word. From there,Hobby Lobby has become one of the nation's largest arts and crafts retailers, with more than 500 locations in 41 states. Our children grew up into fine business leaders, and today we run Hobby Lobby together, as a family.

We're Christians, and we run our business on Christian principles. I've always said that the first two goals of our business are (1) to run our business in harmony with God's laws, and (2) to focus on people more than money. And that's what we've tried to do. We close early so our employees can see their families at night. We keep our stores closed on Sundays, one of the week's biggest shopping days, so that our workers and their families can enjoy a day of rest. We believe that it is by God's grace that Hobby Lobby has endured, and he has blessed us and our employees. We've not only added jobs in a weak economy, we've raised wages for the past four years in a row. Our full-time employees start at 80% above minimum wage.

But now, our government threatens to change all of that. A new government health care mandate says that our family business MUST provide what I believe are abortion-causing drugs as part of our health insurance. Being Christians, we don't pay for drugs that might cause abortions, which means that we don't cover emergency contraception, the morning-after pill or the week-after pill. We believe doing so might end a life after the moment of conception, something that is contrary to our most important beliefs. It goes against the Biblical principles on which we have run this company since day one. If we refuse to comply, we could face $1.3 million PER DAY in government fines.

Our government threatens to fine job creators in a bad economy. Our government threatens to fine a company that's raised wages four years running. Our government threatens to fine a family for running its business according to its beliefs. It's not right. I know people will say we ought to follow the rules; that it's the same for everybody. But that's not true. The government has exempted thousands of companies from this mandate, for reasons of convenience or cost. But it won't exempt them for reasons of religious belief.

So, Hobby Lobby � and my family � are forced to make a choice. With great reluctance, we filed a lawsuit today, represented by the Becket Fund for Religious Liberty, asking a federal court to stop this mandate before it hurts our business. We don't like to go running into court, but we no longer have a choice. We believe people are more important than the bottom line and that honoring God is more important than turning a profit.

My family has lived the American dream. We want to continue growing our company and providing great jobs for thousands of employees, but the government is going to make that much more difficult. The government is forcing us to choose between following our faith and following the law. I say that's a choice no American � and no American business � should have to make.
The government cannot force you to follow laws that go against your fundamental religious belief. They have exempted thousands of companies but will not except Christian organizations including the Catholic church.

Since you will not see this covered in any of the liberal media, pass this on to all your contacts.

Sincerely,

David Green, CEO and Founder of Hobby Lobby Stores, Inc.

Alfa Sugar Update

Since July 2012, I've taken a leave of absence from blogging.  It's been a roller coaster ride of sorts with life happening on the homefront.  I appreciate readership for it's at 5000 hits since this blog started over a year ago.  Come January 2013, I will review and revise the plan for this blog.  The hope is to generate a profitable return of sorts.  Thank you for your support.

P.S. below is a link to my latest article on Wives of Faith

Finding Contentment in your Life

A Nation Under God

We are a nation under God that has a history of strife.  Wars, explorers, & conflict between natives and settlers comprised much of our early history.  In 1776, we as a nation dealt with oppression of taxes from England.  Our founding fathers stood up and were willing to die so that they and their families would be free, free from oppression, free from taxes and free to practice their religious beliefs. 

According to many, there is validity to this historical issue today.  We are a nation still dealing with strife.  We still lack.  We are taxed.  We are oppressed.  We are under attack for our religion.  Is history repeating itself?

Whether it's 1776 or 2012, we as a nation need to return to our founding principles.  Religion needs to be reinstated, and people need to rise and be a nation of propigators of the gospel.  Freedom is desired due to these yearnings and lackings that folks experience day to day.  We are a pro-capitalism country full of hope and promise.  It's a great nation full of prosperity and opportunity.  Why is it that so many people in the world STILL desire to come to America?

It's not a matter of money even though money, profitmaking or revenue communicate the true nature of human behavior.  It's a matter of character and the things that money can't buy.  This Fourth of July as we see the fierce fires in Colorado and the west, we see the storms and flooding in Florida, we see 100 degree heat throughout the USA causing water shortages, and we see many folks without power dealing with extreme drought conditions, we need to awaken to our woes of lacking and yearning and realize that there is the One that can only give satisfacation and fullfillment.  God bless America. 

"Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain a heart of wisdom....Satisfy us...that we may sing for joy and be glad all our days."  Psalm 90:12-14 (NIV)

Battling Bare

In the recent article, Military Wives Strip Down to Raise Awareness about PTSD, it's a testament to what the military wives and families deal with regarding PTSD or post-traumatic stress syndrome.  It is an important issue that is hindering military from getting jobs in the private sector once they discharge from the military. 

At Battling Bare, a new nonprofit organization, these ladies are encouraging others to support their husbands battling PTSD.  By writing the motto below on their bare back and taking a picture of it to post online, it is hoped that this attention-getting device will raise awareness to a grave situation that our military servicemembers are dealing with. 

Broken by battle…
Wounded by war…
My love is FOREVER–to you this I SWORE.
I WILL:
Quiet your silent screams…
Help heal your shattered soul…
Until once again, my love…
YOU ARE WHOLE!
Battle bare.

It takes courage to reach for help only to have it thrown back in your face.  Counselors and even church ministers misunderstand the issue at hand, and that leads to wrongful and hurtful diagnosis of the problem.  It takes a strong military wife to weather the storm with her husband, and this Battling Bare motto is a great morale boost to those raising attention to a very delicate situation that our society and military desire to sweep under the carpet. 

You DON'T throw away this marriage as many would encourage divorce and leaving the person.  You DO work through the difficult situation and start another life after the military experience.  It's a one day at a time challenge where you focus on the positives and forgive for those who do you wrong.  (and it's okay if it takes a long time to forgive but it is key to learn to forgive and move on with your wonderful life).

Another article in the The Leaf Chronicle

2Q2012 Results for Alfa Sugar

We are now at 3,974 hits since Alfa Sugar went live over a year ago. 

Our international audience is large and include USA, Sweden, Russia, United Kingdom, Germany, India, France, Canada, Romania, Latvia and other countries of the world. 

Our top articles for this past quarter include:
160+ stores offering military discounts
Bird Picture for Wives of Faith Blog Carnival
Hurray for our Heroes
Out with the Old and In with the New

Of note, my article  Bird Picture for Wives of Faith Blog Carnival won a prize in the contest.  Thank you Wives of Faith and Chelesea S. of Thirty One for the pretty little organizer bag.  It's used a lot at my church so I felt right in vogue using it for Vacation Bible School this summer. 

This past quarter was a first for getting comments and likes. 

Thank you for your support of Alfa Sugar. 

Retirement Considerations to achieve contentment

Per a professional financial consultant on a morning tv show, it is estimated that Americans will have to reduce their current standard of living by 60% when they retire.  This is an astounding number given current financial issues. 

It is estimated that Social Security will see more outflow rather than inflow occur in 2013. 

Today's market is reluctant to hire people age 60 and older because of age and health matters.  Even if the older worker is more reliable and knowledgeable, many employers opt to hire other candidates.  The Elder Law is in place but it is difficult to prove especially in right to work states. 

For those nearing retirement or in retirement, it is a mixture of concern and fear about future living conditions.  

For military, it is certainly concerning.  Before retirement, it is important to determine what location is best and closest to your last station.  Cost of living in the local community along with any military benefits as a retiree is an added plus.  Of course, it is best to review your financial statements with and without Social Security.  The more you plan and research, the better you and your spouse will enjoy retirement years. 

Most retirees understand that they are on fixed incomes and can't go and do like what they used to do.  Scaling back from a lifestyle that was fun and fulfilling is never easy.  What matters most is finding contentment with where you are in your present day living.   

some considerations....
relocate to a retirement community that's more affordable for your budget
develop friendships with 55+ groups at local Ys, senior centers or other groups
take up a new hobby such as bridge, walking, or other activity that exercises your mind and body
attend church and learn more about the Bible
mentor the younger generation albeit a younger couple in their 30/40s
participate in events such as Vacation Bible Schools where there are all age groups represented
eat out at local restaurants who offer senior discounts
seek free deals
shop on senior discount days (this is not available in all states so take advantage of it if you can)
care for a pet through foster care (that way you don't pay the vet bills and can provide a loving home)
volunteer at your local library, church, school or other worthy nonprofits
manage your time wisely for retirement years
do babysit or provide childcare for grandchildren
do potlucks
learn e-mail or skype or a new technology that bridges the gap between you and the younger generation
research who offers military retirees discounts
book hotel rooms through venues that are on bases as you travel in the country
share a ride when driving across country with fellow retirees
participate in church group bus trips
smile
look at the sky
feel the rain
life is beautiful

There are many other ways to enjoy retirement years so please add more suggestions

Money Issue

As money goes more digital, a debate is arising as to the benefits of cash or the greenback.  This morning on the CBS Sunday Morning show, such a report reviewed the drawbacks of the greenback and how going digital is wonderful.  Here is the link The Money Issue.  Yes, handling the greenback is hazardous to your health as it is with other countries currencies. 

What the report neglected to address is a couple of the following: 

1) high finance charges for the card swipes...for example, Paypal charges a certain percentage.  When you pay $8, then the person receiving payment has to pay taxes and employment insurance costs AND now another fee called the finance charge.  It squeezes small business net profits in an economy that is struggling as it is.

2) there is less accountability for impulse spending.  When you spend cold, hard cash, it's harder to release it rather than the digital component.  McDonald's conducted a study whereby it was affirmed that people bought more fast food products when using a credit/debit card rather than cash.

3) there are many workers who benefit from cash payments such as babysitters, servers, valet parkers etc...  There may be a drawback to criminal activity using cash transactions but when the power goes out and many people do not pay for a smartphone, why punish good hardworking people by doing away with cash?  It's not a negative to pay for things in cash.  It's cool.

4) Educators in schools use the greenback and coins (play money) in the classroom to teach children about money.  To do away with the adult population using currency because it is likely to go digital is a challenge to teach future generations about the value of money and how to properly manage their finances.  The reintroduction of personal finance in schools is necessary to train up this generation so that we as a nation don't deal with debt or overspending issues as our present generation is doing.

Not mentioned is the increase in bartering between two parties where there is an exchange of goods and services for goods and services, not cash or payment with money. 

For the New York reporter who filed this news report, he should have reviewed these aspects in his report rather than allow technology to sweep him off his feet.  He should go to rural America outside the NorthEastern part of this country for a true understanding of average Americans. He should also travel to various parts of the world with other military personnel see how American military families deal with international spending issues.  I believe that he will revise some things in his report if he conducts further research.  No offense sir but I believe that you did a decent job raising awareness and missed a few key points. 

Staying with cash and the greenback will benefit this country, not the government.  There are other ways for government to reduce spending and one way is to NOT adjust and do away with the greenback or coins. 

This financial perspective is to elevate more understanding about the classic issue of bartering or exchange of goods and services as well as to bring light to the money issue present day. 

by Stephanie Arredondo (c) 2012

(I wrote this article quickly with children playing the background, phone ringing and other household activity that can easily distract the writer because that's how important this financial perspective is)

Financial Struggles

Interesting news report out on gloom and doom for many folks.  I believe that this is true for those who are living beyond their means.  There is no question that inflationary influences are kicking in on food prices as well as basic materials as global demand is rising for these items.  For military families, it is wise to learn to cook, budget and reduce spending as commissary prices though decent will take a big bite out of military household budgets. 

Working Americans struggle to stay on top of things. With median hourly wages lower in 2011 than 10 years earlier, many are finding that their salaries can't keep up with expenses, especially for those whose hours have been cut as well. The NYT collects anecdotal evidence of how Americans are suffering, whether it's those that want to work longer hours, or those that can't find jobs related to their degrees.

Lower than anticipated family net worths

If you read the news release below from seeking alpha, it affirms the current day to day struggles that many American families are dealing with.  It's also been an opportunistic time for foreign investors. 

Net worth of U.S. family plummets. The net worth of the American family plunged 39% from 2007-2010 to $77,300, the lowest since 1992 as the financial crisis destroyed 18 years of gains. Leading the decline was a 42.3% dive in the average equity in Americans' homes. "What you see is an economy that’s really very, very stressed for the bottom 60%-70%,” Streettalk's Lance Roberts tells Bloomberg.

SUMMER & SAFETY REMINDERS

Pools are open.  School is out.  Summertime is here.  Now it's time for summertime safety reminders. 

Public health is an issue at pools, especially public pools.  This yahoo article raises alerts about people urinating in pools and about bateria issues.  Survey Public Pools like toilet bowels  While everyone certanly knows to use the facilities, perhaps it's a reminder that our society needs to do better in personal hygiene. 

With school out, children are playing and up to mischief with no parents around.  Police are notifying neighborhood watch groups about an increase in teens and criminal activity.   It is wise to have your child into healthy activities.  Children look for adults to supervise and discipline even though they whine and complain. 

Door to door salespeople are at it as well as traveling gypsies and other potential burglars.  Awareness of who is in your neighborhood and setting your alarm system is a good way to prevent crime.  Dogs barking is something to not ignore. 

Preventive measures are so important for you to enjoy your summer and reduce unnecessary financial obligations. 

U.S. CFOs Outlook - An Interesting Big Picture

U.S. CFOs are expecting a 20 percent increase in their net earnings,compared with 13 percent last quarter.

Despite their climbing optimism, CFOs on average continue to believe that that the unemployment rates will remain at high levels for the next six to 12 months.

Source:  CFO Quarterly Outlook May 2012

Improvements are occurring in the U.S. economy despite lackluster politicals.  Perhaps a rally in U.S. stocks may help raise sentiments positively going into summertime.  I believe that Valueline Survey's estimate that GDP growth will hover around 2.0-2.5% is a fair range; however, it is concerning how events in Europe will unfold and affect market psychology.  Having commented here, I believe that investors remain smart about what instruments to invest in to achieve investment strategy and portfolio management goals.  For now, CFOs are tweeking numbers here and there. 

The real question is who is sacrificing quality to meet bottom line expectations.  Also, there are U.S. corporations carrying a lot of cash on their books so opinion is strong that acquisitions may be in the pipeline. 

Until corporations can finalize their tweeking, unemployment may remain high going to year end.  As a rule, January is a great time to interview and get hired because of corporate budgets. 

Bless Me in Financial Abundance

Many prayer requests these days are financial bondage ones where folks are eager to be debt-free, to have financial means to obtain 1) a nice place to live or 2) a means of transportation or 3) a way to ease the discomfort stemming from day to day living, and to cry aloud in a way possible in this modern society.  Upon reading several online prayer requests, I feel my heart go out to these folks as many of us are familiar with financial limitations.

Today is a challenging time where once given items are not free.  For example, at the fast food restaurants, I have to ask for ketchup for my order or get a fork to eat my salad.  The canned fruit aisle has certainly changed.  Pears used be in a 16 oz can for $1.29 and now are in a smaller 11oz can for $1.89.  There are more empty stores than before.  The auto service repair folks are outside flagging people to come in the door for immediate service.  Checkout lines are longer because fewer people are employed to work the cash register.  At a local preschool, the director omitted a classroom and two teacher salaries to remain on budget because enrollment is low.

Psalm 67 states "May God be gracious to us and bless us and make his face shine upon us, that your ways may be known on earth, your salvation among all nations."

Perhaps our financial challenging times are upon us to get our attention and reprioritize it on the One who can give comfort and financial peace. 

If you are a military member or spouse and are in need of financial assistance, there are programs available but usually these are for the ones who have deployed or are currently deployed.  Veterans have some other programs to reference.  At a time when the military is reshuffling its pool of people, it is important to contact every possible resource, organization or network rather than sit on the couch, play on the computer and/or text all the time.  Engaging in traditional old-fashioned social networking is a magical endeavor that you will benefit from in the long run. 

National Guard 101: A Handbooks for Spouses

Mary Corbett has written a book titled National Guard 101: A Handbook for Spouses.  Her web site page is www.marycorbett.com.  I highly recommend this book to fellow military spouses trying to learn about the Guard and what it is all about. 

Hurray for Our Heros

Final Question for the Wives of Faith Blog Carnival

Why do I love being a military spouse when it is not exactly the life that I wanted to choose for myself?  I love the higher calling of loving my husband who serves his country because at the end of the day when all else is done, he comes home, not to a house but a home full of joy, encouragement and grace.  It is an honor to love and support my hero.

For those who have wonderful heros seeking employment, check out Hire a Hero for more information about how verterans and their military spouses can find employment. 

Cautious Turn in Europe Affects US Markets

It is well-noted that after the French election, a cautious turn of events in Europe is affecting U.S. Markets.  This is a disappointment as France is going to the far left politically at a time when it's unemployment rate remains in the double digit.  I've toured foreign businesses and can vouch for French entrepreneurs that their paid workers will not work.  Capitalism is dead.  The quality of living is dismal.  We complain of the French smelling bad but what the French people must do is not bath so as to conserve on their water bill.  It's a matter of finances.  A young educated woman must delay marriage and seek employment in a town two hours away from where she lives thus paying a high gasoline bill and spending a lot of time in the car.  She commented that she is lucky to get the job.  These folks are smart, educated and hardworking people yet the policital environment as well as the legal system restricts opportunity to profit and for capitalism to enhance the fruits of their labor.  Perhaps other European countries are to follow.  Back home, America may be a house divided between capitalism and socialism but it's offer of free enterprise may be challenged as politics and other special interest groups intervene.  Hence caution is advised for accounts exposed to investments in European markets or for American companies who derive more than 50% of their profit in Eurocurrency. 

Bird Picture For Wives of Faith Blog Carnival

Some creative writing  below where bird and military spouse parallel one another.  The Wives of Faith Blog Carnival topic is to post a picture that you've taken and then describe the story.  Below is a story from the female bird's perspective on life and her surroundings in the picture. 

She sits.  Yes, she sits and deals with the world and all its challenges coming her way. Is someone staring at her?  Is an innocent bystander wondering what’s going on? Maybe for once it’s okay to let her guard down and show her true side.  Is her mate looking at her with concern and love?  Yes, her mate is looking at her.  It’s nice that her mate is interested in her.  It’s nice to know that her world matters to her mate. Yet, it’s as if the world is upon her little body, and she can’t sustain things anymore.  She’s still.  She ponders. She lets out a big breath and enjoys the relaxed sag of her body.  She awaits the next move.  Her present world is available for all to see.  Her private world teeters upon exposure.  She collects her thoughts.  She prays.  She wonders what’s next or not.  She is uncertain of her future, only the present is telling.  She is in her home.  She’s tired.  She needs rest and restoration.  She seeks little in return for what she’s given.  She comforts with her presence.  She gives with what she can.  She loves in a way that her mate understands.  She cares beyond measure.  She observes her surroundings.  She collects her thoughts.  She thrives in her mate’s love.  She takes it all in.  She prepares to become what God wills her to be. 

I wrote this because often military spouses experience similar feelings and emotions that perhaps folks cannot grasp or acknowledge.  It is a lifestyle that is different from many.  There's a certain vulnerability that military spouses endure especially during times of deployment.  When I took this picture at the zoo, I had no idea that I would draft this kind of write-up and yet when I look at this beautiful bird in the picture, I can relate to those times in my life where I am tired, uncertain and experiencing the very things written above.  So often, we military spouses forget to take care of ourselves, nuture ourselves and rejuvenate our minds and bodies.  Perhaps this picture is a kind of reminder for military spouses regardless of deployment or not, to make time for yourself.  It's worth it. 

The financial perspective to keep in mind is that health and wellness is a great preventative for costly medical bills.  Taking a hot bubble bath or jogging or attending a bible study or something that brings fun along with health and wellness is a great long term investment for pennies on the dollar.

Best Military Spouse "Hoooah" Moment

Accentuate the positiveand describe your best military wive Hoooah moment!

My husband’s Guard unit was returning from Iraq.  It had been a long deployment for many, and back home, there were few there to receive folks.  The main building was empty except for 2 or 3 people.  I had a bunch of red, white and blue decorations from a Fourth of July party and decided to recruit folks to decorate the reception area for our Welcome Home Festivities.  Being a small unit, I decorated the walls and even posted an American Flag doorway for folks to bust through as they came into the building, kind of like NFL where the football players run onto the field.  Just a little touch of decoration was at least something that I could do for folks who served our country in a combat zone.  Later my husband told me that the commander was grateful for the decorations as it was a morale booster for many.  It’s nice to know that little efforts can go a long way. 
Go to Wives of Faith for more information about the military spouse ministry.

Interesting Dream Sheet for Fellow Military Spouses

Q.  What duty stations or locations would be on your dream sheet?

A.  While I love our current location, my dream sheet would be to relocate to Charleston SC USA.  It is close to the beach, is full of history and is a city full of hospitality and Southern charm.  Other than being the quintessential Hollywood of the South, Charleston SC offers a variety of cultural flare that few cities can replicate.  I enjoy the lowcountry cuisine, and there is nothing like shuckin’ a few oysters at an oyster roast.  Besides navigating the Intracoastal Waterway, touring many historic sites, partaking in outdoor activities and discovering the blend old Southern charm with modern society, I can think of no better way to spend the days strolling along Battery Park and watching the waves effortlessly witness the architectural glory of days gone by.  Though the city remains, it’s people and the culture passed from generation to generation is unique and appealing to us diehard Southerners.

Go to Wives of Faith for more information about military spouses.

You Know You are a Military Spouse when....

You know you are a military spouse when you show your military id to get on a military base.

You know you are a Guard spouse when you do not live near a base.

You know you are a christian military spouse when you join Wives of Faith.

Best is Yet to Be

Military life can be challenging in many ways.  Just when life seems like it is going in one direction then change occurs.  Moving on can mean a mixture of emotions.  It is sad to say good bye to the familiar.  It is exciting to start a new adventure.  It is scary to broaden your horizons.  Whatever the case may be, it is important that the best is yet to be. 

160+ Stores offering Military Discounts

Stores offering military discounts...It's important to show them your valid military ID.  From Brad's list

• A&W – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
• Abercrombie & Fitch – 10-15% off, at manager’s discretion
• Advance Auto Parts – 10% off with military ID
• Aeropostale – 10% off with military ID
• Agentsource.com – Up to 40% off standard real estate closing costs for Active duty men and women moving in the United States or Canada
• American Airlines – Discount varies, requires military ID
• American Eagle Outfitters – 10-15% off, at manager’s discretion
• American Video Productions -10% off to active duty, retired, families of military and dependents. Call and ask for the discount http://www.americanvideoproductions.net/
• Amtrak - 10% off
• Anchor Blue - 10% off
• Anheuser – Busch Amusement Parks – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
• Anna’s Linens - 10% off any purchase with Valid Military ID in store only
• Apple Store - The discount varies, you need to sign up here – http://www.apple.com/r/store/government/
• Applebee’s – Discount varies per location, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you
• Arby’s- Discount varies per location, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
• Ashford University – Discounted tuition at $250 a credit, books are covered for all required courses, waived application fee, waived technology fee and more! Benefits apply to all Active Duty, National Guard, Reservists and spouses, dependents eligible for survivor benefits, plus civilian DOD employees & separated vets/retirees still using their GI Bill.
• ASMBA – Armed Services Mutual Benefit Association – Membership in the non-profit association is free, and, when you join, you’ll get $3,000 of free AD&D coverage.
• AT&T – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
• AutoZone– Varies Per Store - Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
• Avis – 25% off, online you should use this coupon AWD # A555084
• Azamara Cruises – Discounts vary, 800-338-4962
• Back Yard Burgers – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
• Banana Republic – 10% military discount 1st of every month (may vary by location; in-store only).
• Barnes and Noble – 6% off regular price plus free shipping, check out www.bn.com/militarycity
• Barnhill’s – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
• Bass Pro Shops – 10% off from the 15th to 22nd of each month
• Bed & Breakfast Inns – On November 10th, over 500 Bed and Breakfasts are offering a free night stay to to veterans. Click here for the list of participating B&B’s.
• Best Inns and Suites – Varies, must present Military ID with check-in
• Best Western- Rates within allowable per diem, must present military ID with check in
• Big 10 Tires – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
• Blockbuster- Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
• Boscov’s- 15% off in-store purchases with military ID everyday.
• Boston Bill Sunglasses – 10% off
• Boston Market – 20% with military ID.
• Buckle – 10% off, Free Shipping on all military orders
• Budget – Varies, up to 25% off time and mileage Store, requires military ID to redeem
• Budget Truck Rental – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
• Burger King – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
• Busch Gardens - One day complimentary admission for members of the military and 3 direct dependents in 2012. Here’s to the Heroes
• Cabela’s - 10% off
• Camino Real Apartments – 5% military discount
• Captain D’s – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
• Carl’s Jr. – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
• Carnival Cruises – 10% off of cruise, but must be booked over the phone, and not online, as proof must be faxed in
• Century 21 – FREE Century 21 AON Home Protection Plan when they buy or sell a home through Molly Kucharski ONLY paid for at settlement. Value = $399.00, call 1(800) 952-2516
• Champs Sports – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
• Chevy’s Fresh Mex – 20%, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
• Chick Fil A – Varies, Discount with ID card (location dependent), discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
• Chipotle– Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
• Choice Hotels – Rates at or below per diem depending on location. Discounts may vary and depend on availability. Must present military ID.
• Ci-Ci’s Pizza – Discount varies, dependent on location, must present military ID
• Clarion Inn – Rates within allowable per diem while on travel orders. Must present valid military ID with check-in
• CoinsAndPins.com – 10% military discount on custom made products as long as the custom items are more than 60% military related
• Cold Stone Creamery - Discount varies, must present military ID
• Comfort Inn – Rates within allowable per diem while on travel orders. Must Present valid military ID with check-in
• Copeland’s Sports - Discount varies per location
• Cracker Barrel – 10-15% off, at manager’s discretion
• DSW Designer Shoe Warehouse – 10% military discount
• Dairy Queen- 10% off, location dependent
• Days Inn – Rates within allowable per diem. Must present valid military ID with check-in
• Dell Computers – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
• Denny’s – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
• Dick’s Sporting Goods – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
• Discovery Channel Store – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
• Disney Resorts – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
• Disneyland - Military discounts are available only for tickets purchased at installation MWRs. Prices vary per date and length of visit
• Dollar Car Rental – Allowable per diem rates
• Dunkin’ Donuts – Veterans advantage members save 10% on all online orders. They also send free coffee to the troops oversees.
• Eddie Bauer– 15% off most merchandise (some promotions excluded) with military ID
• El Molino Coffee Shop - Free Shipping, online
• Express Clothing Store- 10% off on top of other coupons as well with military ID
• Extreme Outfitters -10-20% on miltary Gear, online and in Store
• Eyewear - Discount varies, get the discount online at http://www.afeyewear.com/ – This site offers military discounts for a wide range of eyeglass companies
• Finish Line - 20 percent military discount off select items at special locations
• Foot Action – 20% off with military ID
• Foot Locker – 20% off with military ID
• Ford – Discount varies, http://www.encs.com/ford/
• Forever 21 – 10% off
• Friendly’s Ice Cream Stores – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
• Gander Mountain – 5% off
• Gap – 10% military discount 1st of every month (may vary by location; in-store only).
• Geico – 2% to 15% in all states except Georgia, Indiana, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Mississippi, New Jersey, New Mexico, Tennessee and Texas
• GM – Varies, always well below MSRP. You can sign in online at https://www.exclusivegmoffer.com/ip-gmpop/initPop.do?program=mpp
• GNC – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
• Golden Corral – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
• Great Wolf Lodge – Up to 33% off, discount varies however. Must book room over the phone rather than the internet.
• GuideToMilitaryTravel.com– Another great site for military families to go to when looking for travel discounts.
• Haber Vision – 50% discount on all sunglasses. Online at http://www.habervision.com/CodeResult.aspx?code=JB10222Q
• Hanes Outlet Store – 10% off with Military ID
• Hard Rock Cafe – 10% – 15% off. Varies for each location.
• Hertz – Allowable per diem rates. Show valid military ID
• Hewlett-Packard – Log on to website and click on New User Registration: Enter first and last name, user name, password and email address. Use company code: 2727. Discounts vary. Online only.
• Hickory Farms - 10 percent Military discount – Enter 892848 in code box on online order form
• Home Depot– 10% off Year Round, to active duty, active reserve, retired military, and immediate family. In-Store, just bring valid military ID
• Hooters – 10% off with military ID
• Hot Topic– 10-20% off with military ID
• IAVA – IAVA, Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America, is a veterans organization that looks to help take care of the newest generation of American veterans. They also are working with companies, such as JC Penney, to provide up to $200 in vouchers to certain retail stores.
• IHOP – 20% with Military ID at owners discretion
• IMAX - $1 off movie tickets with Military ID
• Inkshouse.com – 20% off $50 or more, use cod Mil20
• istudysmart.com – Free Shipping for Military Families, Online, 9/15 – 10/14
• Java Cafe – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
• Jeep – $500 for active military, reserves and retired reserves or active after 20 years of service. Requires military ID
• Jiffy Lube – 10% off with valid Military ID
• Jockey – 10% off with valid Military ID
• Jones New York Outlet Store – 10% off with valid Military ID
• KB Toys – 15% off during advertised Military Days
• KFC – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
• Kragen Auto Parts – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
• Lady Foot Locker – 20% off with military ID
• Leslie Pool Supplies - 10% off with military ID
• Lerner – 15% off
• Long John Silver’s – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
• Longhorn Steakhouse – 10% military discount (this may not be honored at all locations)
• Lowe’s – 10% off year round to active duty, active reserve, retired military, and immediate family. Just bring in a valid military ID. The military discount, however, cannot be combined with other coupons they may be offering.
• Macy’s – 10% off on the first Tuesday of every month, 15% with a Macy’s card. Here are more Macy’s Coupons.
• Maurices– 10% off with valid military I.D.
• Marriott Hotels – It’s the Per Diem amount the government picks up, whatever that amount is. Just call and place the reservation over the phone and ask for that discount. Online at http://www.marriott.com/reservation/worldnum.mi
• Mary Kay Cosmetics – Military personnel and dependents receive 10 % on online orders. Reference your service affiliation and status, and ask for additional free gift and bigger discounts by contacting website.
• McDonald’s – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
• Meineke – 10% off parts. In store only. Simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
• Michaels- 10% off every Wednesday at select stores. Call your local store for participation.
• Midas – 10% off
• MilitaryContacts.net – Up to 30% off contact lenses and free shipping on orders over $50
• MLB Hall of Fame – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
• Movie Theaters – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
• Mrs. Fields Cookies - 10% off with military ID, coupon link
• My Cruise Club – 9% off on all cruises www.militarycruisedeals.com
• NAPA Auto Parts – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
• Nautica - 10% off with military ID
• National– No fee for additional drivers, and special off duty rates per location. Service members receive full loss damage waivers
• National Credit Solutions – 25% discount, call toll free at 866-485-2540 x109, and for a direct line please call 972-746-4209
• New York and Company - 15% off military discount
• Nextel – 18% Discount, call 1-800-639-6111
• Nickelodeon Hotels – Reduced rates and perks, online and in store, www.nickhotel.com/military , 877-NICK-111 and ask for the Military Family Package.
• Nike – 10% off, In-Store. For official company policy please check out http://www.nikebiz.com/customer_service/discounts.html
• Nuvo - $30 off Ritmo Pregnancy Sound System. You can call 1-888-688-6462, or use coupon code MILITARY99 online at http://www.nuvo-group.com. Valid military ID required for in-store purchase.
• O’Reilly Auto Parts – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
• Oakley – There is a website you register with that offers Oakleys at a discounted price. It doesn’t say how much that price is though. Check it out online at https://secure.usstandardissue.com/
• Old Navy – 10% military discount 1st of every month (may vary by location; in-store only).
• Pac Sun – Discount varies per location, just bring in a vaild military ID and ask
• Panchero’s Mexican Grill – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
• Pancho’s Mexican Buffet – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
• Panda Express – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
• Paradise Limousine – $25 Off Limousine Service Coupon Code: 1369 for service members
• Payless Shoe Source – 10% off
• Pep Boys– 10% off with valid military ID
• Pizza Hut– Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
• Play It Again Sports – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
• Professional Sports teams – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
• Pure Beauty – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
• Quiznos – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
• Race-Depot – 10% off, use code 10MILCITY
• Rack Room Shoes – 15% discount. Bring in valid military ID
• Raising Cane’s Chicken – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
• Ralph Lauren Outlet Store – 10% off with Military ID
• Ramada – 15% to 30% – depending on availability. Must present military I.D. upon check in.
• Red Robin– Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
• Regal Movie Theaters – Matinee prices for all show times. Requires Military ID
• Ripley’s attractions and museums – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
• Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory – 10% military discount
• Rocky Mountain Tracking – 5% off any tracking inc. Use code USMILITARY, http://www.rmtracking.com/
• S&K Menswear – 8% Discount on all items free shipping on orders over $99 & APO/FPO shipping. To access the military site at S&K you must go through their AAFES Exchange Mail Online service. http://bdeal.me/aCVq2X
• Sally Beauty Supply – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
• Samsonite - 15% off with military ID
• Sea World– One day complimentary admission for members of the military and 3 direct dependents in 2012. Here’s to the Heroes
• Sesame Park Place - One day complimentary admission for members of the military and 3 direct dependents in 2012. Here’s to the Heroes
• Shedd Aquarium in Chicago- Free general admission with military ID. On the Shedd Aquarium page that is hyper linked here, scroll down to “Other Discounts” to find out more information.
• Shoe Carnival – 10% off with military ID
• Sierra Suites – Rates at or below per diem depending on location. Discounts may vary and depend on availability. Must present military ID.
• Simone Protective Health – 20% off their nutritional hydration drink.
• Six Flags Magic Mountain - Service members receive special discounts on admission for special events and specific dates. Tickets must be purchased in advance MWR and ITT 143. Recreation offices, not at the park.
• Sizzler – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
• Sonic – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
• Southwest Airlines – Varies, it’s a dollar amount, not a percentage. Not available on all flights, you’ll have to call Southwest and simply just ask.
• Spencer’s Gifts – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
• Sport Chalet – 10% off
• SportsMemorabilia.com – 10% off at checkout, use code mili10 online
• Sprint – 10-18% off. Sprint will also put a “hold” on your line when you are deployed, if you provide a copy of your orders, so you still have the same number when you come back and you do not have to pay for the time your gone as well.
• Sprint Business – 15% to 20% Discount, 1-888-788-4727
• Subway – 10% off, if not in a military town
• Suzuki – $500 off for you and immediate family. Requires military ID
• Sweet Tomatoes – 10% off with military ID
• Szul- Free shipping to Military APO/FPO destinations until 12/31/10. http://bdeal.me/dnZ6Fb
• Taco Bell– Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
• Texas Roadhouse – 10% military discount
• The Melting Pot – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
• Timberland Outlets – 15%, bring in valid military ID
• Tommy Hilfiger – 10% with valid military ID
• Toyota – $500 off + $500 for firs time buyers. Requires military ID
• Travelodge– Rates within allowable per diem. Discounts may vary and depend on availability. Must present military I.D
• TurboTax– Active duty military are eligible to file federal tax returns for free through the Intuit Tax Freedom Project
• Under Armor Outlet Store – 10% off with military ID
• United Artist Movie Theaters – Matinee prices for all show times. Requires Military ID.
• Verizon – 23% discount on monthly bills. Applies only to the military member’s primary line.
• Vets-Cars.com – an auto dealer association that pledges “thanks, respect, low up-front pricing, transparency and a superior showroom experience for U.S. Veterans, Active Duty and family members.”
• Walgreens– 10% with military ID every Tuesday
• Wendy’s – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.
• Wet Seal- 10% off
• Wildlife Conservation Society’s Bronx Zoo – Free admission ticket for active duty or reserve member of the military, also allows 50% discount in admission for up to 3 family members
• Wildlife Conservation Society’s New York Aquarium – Enrolled military get in for free and 50% off for up to 3 family members http://www.nyaquarium.com/
• Wing Zone– 10% military discount in Alabama. Ends 12/31/2015
• World of Coca Cola – $2 off standard admission price for service member with I.D. and up to four guests.
• Wyndham Hotels – Discounts vary by 140 locations. Also depend on availability. Must present military I.D. upon check in.
• Zaxby’s – 10% off with military ID

Deployment Tips

Here is a neat list of 101 items to send a care package to your sweetheart.
Jane's List Deployment Tips

1Q2012 Results for Alfa Sugar

Alfa Sugar enjoyed a robust year of 3,126 hits and celebrates a one year anniversary of blogging.  It's been a pleasure to blog about financial perspective and see that there is an audience for this material.  Finances affects us each and every day of our lives and even in ways we least expect.  I truly believe that if you watch your finances and make improvements, slowly but surely things will improve not only for yourself  but also for your community. 

We continue to have an international audience representing a variety of countries. 
USA, Sweden, Russia, Germany, United Kingdom, India, Canada, Latvia, Singapore, Romania, United Arab Emirates, Iraq, Iran, Brazil, Columbia, Georgia and others.  (all in no particular order)

Our top three articles for the quarter:
1) Out with the Old and In with the New
2) Fraud Alert Called Phishing
3) Concurrent Retirement & Disability Pay for Veterans

Student Loan Costs Are Life-Changing

Would you consider paying $211,000 for an original student loan cost of $74,000?  Of course not.  Unfortunately, when students take on student loan debt and assume that if they work hard to pay it off, then life will be good.  Today's reality offers a different financial perspective here. 

In this article, Student Loan Debt, it is evident that marriage and starting a family is long delayed because of this debt.  Sometimes career advancement is delayed as well.  This article (at the bottom) even highlights a great list of how debt negatively affects students such as difficulty in renting a home because of a high debt to income ratio number. 

The military member is keen on money for education.  Sometimes the GI Bill or other education benefits seem too good to be true.  The reality is some funds are low, and the cost to cover education tuition and fees is not paying as much as aniticipated.  Military are having to take on loans in order to pay for education.  The financial hardship is not recommended.

Many folks offer a solution of working hard and paying as you go.  The increasing popularity of evening college classes is back in addition to online courses.  Hence, you can work a full-time job and obtain your education so some of the financial hardship is avoided.

Interest on the debt is challenging especially when it kicks in.

You cannot claim student loan debt in bankruptcy.  You must pay it off. 

The financial hardship is to mount if students take on more debt.  Recommendation is to delay graduation by working and earning funds to pay for college.  If you are already in debt, then working a full-time job and another part-time job or two will be life for awhile.  It is an enslavement that many wished they never had agreed to doing.  Perhaps view this time in life as an opportunity for character building.  It is during times of financial hardship that you learn things in ways you least expect. 

Self-Sufficiency Can BE In Vogue

Upon reading this morning's article about a family of 20 not in debt and able to be self-sufficient, I truly believe that their fiancial tactical approach to frugality is one to note.  Family of 19 Debt Free article highlights some key points that many folks need to understand.  The importance of paying your bills, not incurring debt and even itemizing bills where sneaky charges must be caught.  Yes, it is wise to NOT assume that your bills are always correct upon receiving them.  Folks struggle with Math so I will doubly make sure that I question any bill that comes my way.

As a military family, you are able to shop at the Commissary and it's nice especially when the sales and case lot sales are put on.  Coupons are good for 6 months after the expiration date.  Also, the coupons are handed out on Saturdays as well as a coupon basket by the bathroom (you can give coupons and take coupons).  You do need to do a food and supply inventory and know your prices but in the end, using coupons and watching what you buy and use in your household will help the bottom line.  Cutting your Grocery Bill in Half is a great book resource as well.

Food is a number one budget blower and with food costs rising, it is even more imperative that folks cook and budget more.  emeals.com is a great tool to faciliate staying on a budget and yet having the menu planned along with recipes.  Keep in mind that you only pay for the dinner meals minus sales tax so it is important to watch your food budget as you supply food for your breakfast, lunch and snacks. 

Be Old-Fashioned & You May Find Out How Cool That Is

It's been awhile since I last blogged...guess life is happeniing in my household!!!!  We took a vacation to the beach and had a magnificent time.  Unfortunately, my husband's blackberry was Murphy in the car and he had to deal with work-related issues while on vacation.  There is a challenge in today's society for folks to truly be away, rest up and enjoy time off from work.  The technology today may be of great benefit to many, but I believe that there is a growing dysfunction in society where few put down the technology and actually talk, be there and be a normal human being with others. Children especially are seeking time and attention from their parents.  April Perry of The Power Of Moms writes a great article that many of my friends are liking called Your Children Want YOU!   Folks are hiding behind their blackberry, their texting, their e-mails or their curtains and are isolating themselves.  If you watch the movie Wally, it shows the funny way that folks get wrapped up in all that technology.  Could it really happen?

We drove down the interstate road and saw lots of DVDs playing in the car.  Yes, we pulled ours out later in the day, but after we made a point to play I Spy, Guess a Number between 1 & 100, Category: Vegetable, Mineral or Animal, and a few other family games.  We were laughing and sharing a special memory making moment without technology interfering with our old-fashioned fun.  We even tracked all the different license plates tags from across the country including Nova Scotia & Quebec making it a geography lesson for my kids.  At the restaurant, we played the game Left, Right & Center and even got GrandPa laughing.  Folks were envious of our fun, that is the ones who weren't distracted with technology. 

There are lots of technologies eager to eat up your time if you allow them to do so.

24/7 TV/Cable TV/Direct TV/Satelite
Internet for Social Networking sites as well as news feeds or online gaming
Texting
E-mailing
Watching a movie
Radio

It's so easy to have access because you just have to push a button.  The nice part is that you can push the OFF button.

Being in the military, it's challenging to connect with folks outside the network.  For one thing, folks don't get what your spouse does for a living.  Yes, they are in the military and they appreciate it but really and truly...theres's an unknown.  It's challenging to find common ground with folks.  Even within the military community, it's challenging to connect with others because of politics, background, living arrangements and (let's be honest) likeability. 

Another issue is relocating, moving, traveling and/or being in different places not knowing many folks.  It's challenging to connect.  It gets lonely even when the family PCSs together. 

It's easy to eat excessively.  Check out our high obesity rate as well as our rise in diabetes.  Rachel Ray's foundation Yum-O! is encouraging to counter this epic problem in our country.

It's easy to watch too much tv or surf the internet.  As one pastor challenged his sunday school class, he said go without the tv and internet for two weeks, and you will see a dramatic improvement in your sex life.  

It's easy to get into activities you would not dream of doing.  Some taboo topics and some unexpected.

It's easy to overdo because you are compensating for what's missing in your life.

Yes, here is where I must plug in that God is exactly what you need in your life especially if you are lonely.  Going to church or the base chapel is difficult at first but it is the best way to not only feel better about yourself, meet and socialize with other, but to seek the One who can  only give you the peace and understanding that you need.

Financially speaking, it's of great benefit to be old-fashioned and to find out how cool it really is.  You will see a big difference in your life.  I can't say that the technologies are bad or that you should not do them.  I am just saying that you need to keep things in balance and yes, old-fashioned values are coming back in vogue in more ways than what you may realize.  The next time you are questioning things....keep in mind that God is my refuge and strength (Psalms). 

By Stephanie Arredondo 2012 for Alfa Sugar

It's Easy to Get MisFocused

Today is when the events and acitivities for the past week or so have finally caught up with me.  My body is tired.  My stress level is present.  My time is fleeing by faster than I can blink.  My money is not as guarded as I'd like.  My family is feeling the out of routine.  It's a wonder no one isn't sick or have had something major occur because I don't think that I can take this anymore!  But God knows how much you and I can take and He is with us every step of the way.

"Let your conduct be without covetousness; be content with such things as you have. For He Himself has said "I will never leave you nor forsake you."  Hebrews 13: 5

If you stop and read this scripture, it gives a sense peace. Tranquility.... I love this word that Dr. Norman Vincent Peale used in his The Power of Positive Thinking. 

What is it that you and I are doing day to day if we can't be content or at peace knowing that He will NEVER leave you nor forsake you, precious child of God?

It is so easy to get carried away with the to do list.  Work pressures mount high as jobs are on the line.  Family needs heighten as little ones grow and need new clothes, shoes and such.  Not to mention health care costs, insurance, and education.  For those single, it is seeking love in many places but the one that gives contentment.  It's easy to become misfocused as you and I live our day to day life.

Being misfocused is easily done.  Technology is great at this.  Peer pressure and gettting caught up in the crowd mentality is easy to do.  Forgetting to pray as you chase after a child or sit in a serious meeting or whatever activity is occuring is not good.  Sometimes going to too much church or other related activities can easily misfocus you on worshiping the One we need most in our life.

How do we stop being misfocused and help ourselves get refocused?  For starters, getting your finances in order is a black and white answer to your behavior and what you are or are not doing right.  For example, if you are working a written plan and watching your spending behavior, then when you review it and realize how artificial it truly is, that is a reality check on where you are misfocused.

Our finances can tell us a lot about ourselves.  As much as we don't want to face ourselves in the mirror and admit our mistakes (and the fact that we are not perfect), it is a  necessary discipline to do so.  I along with many must constantly self-evaluate.  It's no easy task.  But let's not let this negative bring us down or destroy self-esteem.  Let's forgive ourselves and admit to do better.

To get refocused, it is wise to take a look at your monthly spending for the last 1-3 months.  From there, categorize your areas of spending.  Most folks overspend in the personal area as well as the food area.  Perhaps challenge yourself with a new goal.

Another area to get refocused is to do tax preparation work.  This is the time of year when you force yourself to organize your tax material as well as your financial paperwork.  Reviewing so many items will help.  While it's not fun and a little tedious, the outcome can be of great benefit.

Once you've refocused yourself and worked to get your finances back up and running in a better way, then it's time to check out other areas of your life such as TIME MANAGEMENT.  Time is just as important as money and perhaps more so because there's only so much of it that you can give.  Managing your time means you can direct your attention to the areas of your life that are important and not waste your time in other areas.

The financial perspective to learn about is how to correct where it is in your life that you are misfocused.  The number one area is have a relationship with God and then all else will follow.  I have found this to be true that if I invest my time into a relationship with God then all else gets better including the finances.  It's getting focused on the One who will never leave us nor forsake us!

By Stephanie Arredondo  (c) 2012 Alfa Sugar

Happy Military Couples

Ever wonder what are some secrets to keep love going in your marriage?  I love this article recently posted The 9 Secrets of Happy Couples.  Now if only I can get my military spouse to help out with household chores, then I think that this is a great list.  All joking aside, military couples can benefit from these secrets.

Praying together as a couple especially before you begin your day is a great way to connect with your spouse.  If he is on deployment or there is a distance factor, try skyping or pick a particular time of the day where you both know that the other is praying for you and vice versa.

Doing household chores helps your love life.  Upon return from a long deployment, the military spouse needs to make a contribution to doing dishes, cooking a meal, taking the trash out, treating the other to something and even helping out with laundry.  By doing these domestic duties, you are able to reduce the amount of time it takes to do these chores and increase your time together.

Sometimes just sitting and being near one another is a great way to reconnect.  Communication is soooo important.  Allowing time to catch up and listening to the other is key.

There are other items to keep in mind but for now, happy military couples is something that many desire because as many Americans agree, the sacrifices that you and the military families make is a big deal to many U.S. citizens.  Happiness is priceless whereas fun is where you pay a price.....choosing happiness for your marriage is a financial decision in the long run!

(c) 2012  Copryrighted by Stephanie Arredondo

Elderly Targeted for Fraud

A recent article in the local newspaper heightened my understanding that as the Baby Boom generation enters their retirement years, it's becoming more evident of fraudulent activity.  First of all, shame on the person taking advantage of an elderly person who has lived their life and is now dependant upon people for care as well as health matters.  These thieves are crafty in their tactics of intimidating the elderly whereby faking a call from the Social Security office or IRS.  One family received phone calls from a nurse at the nursing home where a relative was under their care....needless to say, this person was fired and no doubt served some jail time. Whatever the reason for the contact, it is important to be vigilent.  For some elderly, they screen their calls through the answering machine.  For others, they demand a letter in writing.  For many, they may have e-mail but are not likely to use it much.  One elderly person's e-mail address was stolen and used fraudulently for moneymaking purposes.  Luckily the telecommunicaitons company addressed the situation before it got out of hand.  In this modern era of smartphones, electronic items and texting, it is important to be kind to the elderly, facilitate the details when it comes to financial matters, and to look out for their financial well-being as well as overall well-being.

Donating to American Veterans

Certain charities benefit from your cleaning out your house, and one of them is the American Veterans.  Through the AMVETS National Service Foundation, they operate thrift stores whereby funds raised help support veteran programs.  It's a worthy cause that benefits you as you clean your house out and supports our heros. 

Mutual Submission

Submit to my husband, are you nuts? This sentiment is typical in our modern day society as it mocks submission. If you google the word submission on the Internet, there are some pretty graphic and taboo images to negatively impact your impression of what it means to submit. Yet, as hard as it is to submit to our husbands, we must. The Bible is very clear on this: just read Ephesians 5:21-33, 1 Peter 3:1-6, and Proverbs 31:10-31.

Am I showing signs of weakness when I submit? No Ma’am.

Where do I fit in the modern day era as a military wife of faith? God loves you and encourages you to love your spouse. By submitting to one another, we enhance the life of our spouse – and ultimately our own.

When the head of the household returns home from a long deployment, it’s tricky to submit. Both of you have had life experiences that foster growth apart. When you reunite and realize that submission is not mutual, it challenges the marriage. (It’s also tricky to submit when the head of household displays poor leadership and/or sexual immorality as in Ephesians 5:3….in this case, I advise you to seek out guidance immediately).

For example, he just returned from a year long deployment in a combat zone and realizes you overspent in the babysitter area of your budget, money that you don’t have. Either he accepts this decision because of good communication between you both, or he argues, thus rejecting your decision at that time, not having much empathy and not working out a solution to the problem.

To submit means respect and how you love your spouse; your communication is paramount to your successful relationship. You are enhancing your spouse’s life. You are providing the enrichment necessary to ward off Satan’s desire to destroy the reflection of God that is in us.

To not submit means you and your spouse not only lack good communication but do not love one another as Christ loves you. When we don’t submit to one another, we ultimately are not showing our reverence for Christ. Instead, Satan is at work destroying marriage by influencing you and/or your spouse.

Mutual submission is the only workable path to marriage, and love provides the true motive for submission. My husband and I love each other very much and married when we were in our early 30s. When we married, he commented that my strong personality is one reason why he chose me to be his bride because he knew it would help us get through these deployments and times of separation. He has a strong personality trait, and when it comes to being head of household, he has displayed some good choices and some not-so-good choices. We are challenged in the mutual submission department because of issues that have surfaced after one particular deployment. I am reminded of 1 Peter 3:1 and how I am to submit to my husband. It’s so hard because I have always been taught that I can do anything. I used to be independent. I made my own money. I made my own decisions. I did what I wanted when I wanted. I functioned without him especially during these deployments. Why must I submit? Why can’t he submit? (He’s probably thinking the same thing…Why won’t she submit? Why do I have to submit to her?) This is a challenge for us wives of faith.

Mutual submission allows us to get closer to Christ because marriage belongs to God and to the church. When we practice mutual submission, we get closer to the One who loves us best. God has a plan for you, your husband and your marriage. The church is the body of God and epitomizes your desire for a successful marriage. If you are not in a good church home, I strongly encourage you to seek out a church. Marriages are under attack daily, and just because your husband is home from the battlefield does not mean that you can let your guard down. Submitting to one another out of love is the best way to combat these potential wounds. Praying together and/or for one another is a powerful weapon. In Acts 18:24-26, we learn of a couple who functioned as a team and welcomed a learned man into their home to learn more. The military is aware of challenges that marriages weather through these storms of deployments and offers marriage retreats that are chaplain-led. For example, one mentioned at our unit was www.strongbonds.org. If you and your spouse can attend such a retreat, it will be a blessing you and your marriage (plus your children will benefit from you both strengthening your marriage). Whatever the case may be, it is important to seek the best for your spouse, love him and submit so that you may get closer to the One who loves you best.

To talk more about this topic, I recommend it, especially with your local Wives of Faith chapter, the new community message board or just post a comment below. It is this support, encouragement and connection that will enable us military spouses to see God’s will when it comes to submission and our marriages.

Wives of Faith for copy of this article published

Unguarded Strength is Double Weakness

This article was published on Wives of Faith web page. 

Our local connoisseur of fabulous cheap finds, Mary Hance (also known as Ms. Cheap to all you Tennessean readers) has published a book, Love For a Lifetime: Daily Wisdom and Wit for a Happy Marriage. One of her reader favorites is how to start your marriage: After you say I Do, you move 2,000 miles away from your family and start your life together. That way you don’t have the excuse to run from your marriage when life comes at you. Both of you learn quick and early on to depend on one another, and that is the best way to start your marriage. This is a befitting description for us military wives who dive into marriage in a similar fashion. Call it “love makes you blind,” but I like to think of it as the lifelong adventure I was born to experience.

We military wives say I Do in many ways either on a whim in the county courthouse, in a local church, on the beach, or even over the Internet (yes, there was a military wedding where he was in a combat zone and she was in her hometown). Each marriage is unique as it starts off. My husband and I wanted the church and reception type of I Do so that it included our family and friends. Recently, upon watching our wedding video with our children, my husband and I reminisced about the early days of our marriage, and how eight years later, our marriage has flourished, has endured the seven year itch and has been tested with deployments, children and other matters that you least expect when you say I Do.

The tests of marriage will always occur. It’s true that you cannot run home to your parent’s house or a friend’s house to seek support especially living 2,000 miles away from your hometown. God can only provide the strength you seek in these moments of weakness. Philippians 4:13 says it best with “I can do ALL things through Christ who strengthens me.”

Unfortunately, some tests of our marriage come in hurtful ways and at our weakest moments.

• Mismanagement of your finances has placed undue pressure on your marriage.
• Someone else got the promotion your husband hoped to get, and as a result, he turned to alcohol.
• A female officer falsely accuses your spouse of sexual assault, and he loses rank.
• Your husband is on deployment when miscarriage occurs.
• Online pornography intrigues your husband.
• Going out to local bars seems like innocent fun until the next morning.
• Your next PCS move is unexpected and separates you both for a year.
• Your anger and frustration mount as you maintain the home front, and when home, he does little to no household chores.

There are many other ways that the enemy attacks your marriage besides these bulleted points, but our weakest moments can be the turning point needed to build character the way God intended in our marriages.

Ephesians 6: 10-18 encourages us to protect ourselves against spiritual attack. When it comes to our marriage, the oneness is challenged by the long distance separation of deployments, the pressures of parenting, the care for aging parents, a demanding job, and/or the mismanagement of time invested in your marriage. No wonder military marriages are challenged. When we are our weakest is exactly when we must summon our strength, yet when we let our guard down is when the enemy makes the most of this opportunity. Unguarded strength is a double weakness.

How do you combat these spiritual attacks?

1. Prayer is a powerful weapon.
2. Attending a Wives of Faith group meeting is another wonderful way to support, encourage and reach out to one another.
3. Should you need to talk on a personal level, it is important to discern and find a Christian advocate to help you see God in the picture.
4. Believe that this character building time will produce amazing fruit of the spirit in you and your marriage.
5. Have faith.

The enemy works through people and things and presents timewasters to distract us. Often, the enemy starts with our minds, and a low self-esteem is indicative of poor time management (especially true if you are seeking a job/calling as referenced in Dan Miller’s 48 Days to the Work You Love). We spend a lot of time thinking and trying to change our spouse when we should change ourselves first. We forget about our role as wife, and we find frustration in our husbands who lack initiative in stepping up to their role as head of household. In Ephesians 5: 15-16, we are warned to live purposely.

Are you making the most of your time?

Where you invest your time is telling of your priorities in life. It’s comforting to know that you do have a plan. Marriage is a lifelong plan of commitment to this one special person God sent into your life. Over Valentine’s Day weekend in our Sunday School class, we went around the room and told the story of how we met. Granted, it was a good load of laughs, and you could see each couple’s spark about how they met either while in school, through mutual friends, at a social event or even online (rare but becoming more common with military marriages). One grandmother even played matchmaker to one couple who now have five children. The marriages ranged from 1 year to 16 years. Each marriage started off the same way – saying I Do.

While I Do represents the beginning, the journey has a telling story depending on your daily decisions, purposeful living and management of self. If you make the most of opportunities through wise time management and the sword of the Spirit, there won’t be double weakness but an amazingly unbreakable bond of strength that will enhance your marriage until death do you part.