AWTR Show #865: Open When: Letters of Encouragement for Military Spouses

Have you ever written your spouse an “open when” letter? Open when it’s your birthday, open when you miss me, open when it’s a holiday, etc. During one of her husband’s deployments, Lizann Lightfoot thought – who is writing these “open when” letters to military spouses?

Her husband was gone on his 6th deployment, while Lizann was home raising 4 kids. She could only write for short periods of time, but she also recognized that most people can only read for short periods of time as well. You can pick up that little bit of encouragement you need to keep carrying on.

Every letter starts off by acknowledging what you’re going through without any judgement. This life is difficult and no one should have to go through it alone. This book is the validation we all need – that someone else is going through, thinking, and/or feeling the same things you are.

Lizann Lightfoot is a Marine wife, mom of five kids, and a professional writer. You may know her as the “Seasoned Spouse,” which is the milspouse blog she has maintained for five years, full of resources and support for military life. During the past two decades with her Marine, she has been through 7 deployments, 6 PCS moves, and spent 3 years living overseas in Spain.

Listeners, if you would like to see more of what Lizann is up to, check out her website here or connect with her on social media via Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, or Twitter. You can also purchase her book here.

Don’t forget one lucky listen will get the chance to win the ebook version of the book, Open When: Letters of Encouragement for Military Spouses. For a chance to win, just comment on any social media post sharing this podcast. We will randomly choose one winner one week after this podcast airs.

Resource Recon with Annie and Amanda K.

This week we are showcasing a post from our blog titled, Navigating Deployment During the Holiday Season, by Hope For The Warriors  our AWN Empowers Recipient for November:

The holidays can be a magical time as the world around us seems to feel wrapped in joy and wonder. For many, though, there will be an undeniable void in their homes and hearts this holiday season as military loved ones are fulfilling deployment orders around the world. 

At any given time, there are more than 150,000 troops deployed in territories outside of the U.S. Family members left behind struggle to manage the home, finances, and children. Many military families live away from their hometowns or where family may reside, making travel the only option to spend time with family and friends during the holiday season. 

You can read the full blog post here.

Empowerment Patrol Report with Amanda B.

This week we are showcasing Army Wife Network’s Platoon Member of the Month recipient: Karen O’Keefe!

Karen is the mother of one of our very own volunteers: Brittney. A little bit about Karen: between our two families, we have a total of 15 veterans. We are so extremely proud of our son-in-law Aaron currently serving in the Army. We are also proud that our daughter Brittney has decided to partner with Army Wife Network in a supporting role. I listen to the podcasts and find them interesting. And of course, I am proud of the graphics that our daughter has created for Army Wife Network. I always repost AWN to my Facebook page to share with others as a small way to spread the news of what the organization does for military families.

Karen truly is always a ray of sunshine and super supportive of all things military life. She always spreads encouragement and empowerment. And here at Army Wife Network, we are so thankful for it.

Thank you to Karen for doing your part to empower military families all across the globe.

Health Minute with the Army Surgeon General

December is National Hand Washing Awareness month. Hand washing is a simple act that can prevent the spread of infections and illnesses. Just 15-20 seconds of regular hand washing can reduce the spread of germs that lead to other illnesses. Washing your hands with soap and water is the most common and recommended way to remove germs.

News 6 with Jolene

Here is this week’s News 6 mashup of stories for the week of Dec. 6, 2021, straight from AWN News 6 Correspondent, Jolene McNutt:

TRANSCOM $6.2 Billion HHG Contract Under Review

Just last week I reported that the $6.2 billion household goods contract was awarded to HomeSafe Alliance. However, this hotly contested contract, which has already been awarded three times, has received another protest filed with the Government Accountability Office, reported Federal News Network.

“This is an opportunity to raise the standard for our families, attract quality capacity to the program, and introduce a level of accountability absent today,” said Gen. Jacqueline Van Ovost, the commander of TRANSCOM. “Once implemented, this contract will positively impact thousands of service members, civilian employees, and their families each year.”

Wreaths Across America Seeks Volunteers

Wreaths Across America is seeking volunteers and sponsors for their Dec.18, 2021 event. Wreaths are laid on all veteran graves, from the Revolutionary War to present day conflicts, as a way to help remember, honor, and teach the sacrifices made for our country. Visit Wreaths Across America to find a location to volunteer near you.

White House Unveils Christmas Decorations to Honor Frontline Workers

The White House Christmas decor was unveiled last week. The theme, Gifts from the Heart, honors frontline workers who were instrumental in working through the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Nurses, doctors, teachers, grocery store workers, and others are recognized in this year’s gigantic Gingerbread White House,” reported AP News. To see photos, watch a video, or read about each room’s sub theme, visit the White House website.

Ten Families Celebrate with Loved Ones

Ten families will be enjoying an extra special holiday with their military loved one home this year. The Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport, Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce, and WTOC, sponsored a giveaway: Home for the Holidays, reported WTOC. Ten military members received roundtrip airfare to or from Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport.

You can check out more of this week’s top stories here.

Podcast Brought to You By Milk N Mamas Baby

This podcast episode is brought to you by our AWTR show sponsor Milk N Mamas Baby breast pump supplier. They help military moms and milspouses choose the right breast pump for their lifestyle, handle TRICARE filing, and get that pump delivered ASAP at home and overseas. Find them at www.milknmamasbaby.com or call 844-Milk-Mom and speak to a representative today.

Thank You

Thank you for tuning into this week’s episode. Please leave a five-star rating and review on Apple podcasts, then send us a screenshot of your review to info@armywifenetwork.com or DM us on Facebook or Instagram @armywifenetwork to receive a special in-real-life gift as a thank you on behalf of AWN. We appreciate your engagement and support.

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