When I first started volunteering about eight years ago, I just thought it would be a great way to get out of the house and meet new people.  But once I started volunteering on a regular basis, I realized that it would become a positive, meaningful experience not only for myself but for those around me.

My first time volunteering was helping to build a house with Habitat for Humanity in Jacksonville, FL.  It was so exciting knowing that I was going to change a family’s life.  I got ...

When was the last time you sent a care package to your operational loved one? What were some of the items you packed inside?  Most of you probably included photos, handwritten notes, art projects from the kids, something homebaked, a few creature comforts, a favorite magazine … does this simple list ring a bell?  It’s pretty easy to pack up a super box of love when sending it to someone in your family.  But what if you’re sending out boxes to those you DON’T know personally? Maybe your ...

Welcome back to Constant Contact, a new regular feature on Macaroni Military Family.  Based on suggestions from you and from neat ideas we come across, we'll share a variety of products, ideas, apps, and services available to help your military family keep the connection strong during separations.  This month, learn all about Ties that Bind Us.

“Ties” is a website allowing parents, family and friends to create a webcam recording of themselves which is combined with a children’s book. This combination is called a Tie and can be ...

It's never to soon to start planning for Spring Break.  And if you haven't taken a look at all the great MWR recreation spots across the country ... you should.  From Hawaii to Florida, from the East Coast to the West, military families will find all sorts of unique locations (many right on the water), lodging options (from yurts to townhouses) and recreational activities (from fishing and boating to golf and hiking) at prices you can afford!

Click here to see a list of what's out there.

• All you artists!  Front and center!  The Military Child Education Coalition (MCEC) is still taking submissions for their Call for the Arts: The Art of Being a Military Child contest.  Submit your entry no later than February 25th, 2012.  Suggested subject matter includes:  transitions, teachers/school, military lifestyle, life lessons, wishes/hopes/dreams, and parents/family. Entries may include drawings, film, short stories, and poetry. Winning entries will be utilized in MCEC publications and materials for conferences and other activities.  Military children K-12 and those children connected to the military ...