October is filled with so many fun events -- fall festivals, hayrides, bonfires, trick-or-treating, apple picking and pumpkin patches that I feel as if I could fill this entire newsletter with ideas on making fall the most fun time of the year, but there are so many other things happening this month that I could only make that a snippet. Before I start anything else, I have to say Happy Birthday Navy! On October 13, the U.S. Navy turns 239!
The Warrior Games have just finished with the Army taking home the most gold medals. You can read about the results of the games in Army Wins Chairman's Cup at Warrior Games. To find more information about the Warrior Games, visit the U.S. Army Warrior Transition Command website.
Breaking barriers is what military members do on a daily basis, so it would be hard not to mention Noah Galloway, Army Veteran, extreme athlete, double amputee and Men's Health magazine cover story this month and his new mission to inspire others. You can read more about him at the VA's blog, VAntage Point.
October is also Breast Cancer Awareness Month. We should know the importance of monthly exams and yearly mammograms by now, but what do you do if you find out you do have breast cancer? Read one woman's story of recovery in Marine Runs and Rides Her Way Through Recovery.
This month has touched a lot on athletes, but what do you do if you're having a hard time making fitness and health part of your lifestyle? Don't give up! Fitness expert (and mom) Heather Traves shares with us a few tips to help you reach your goals in It's the Little Things That Add Up to Make the Biggest Changes!
And now for the kids! I read this alarming statistic, 40% of Teens Report Being Hit or Nearly Hit While Walking, and knew I had to learn more. Once my kids were no longer little kids, I didn't think about the dangers of them crossing the street, but now, through that article, I learned that a lot of times the kids themselves were to blame. I know I am going to be talking to my 16 year old about being a distracted walker.
If you are planning on throwing a fun Halloween bash this year, make sure to download this free party invitation.
If your kids are anything like mine, they love going door-to-door collecting candy and treats on Halloween, but as a mom, I was less than thrilled with the huge amounts of candy that came through the door. There are candy buy backs across the country that turn those too-much-of-a-good-thing treats into treats for the troops. Find out if there is a dentist in your area participating at www.halloweencandybuyback.com.
Homeschooling families, there is a new pen pal program designed to help your child practice their letter writing skills and make new friends. The Pen Pal Program for Homeschooling Families is open to both military and civilian children.
Finally, I know it seems early, but it's time to start thinking about getting our holiday packages overseas so they arrive in time for the big holidays. You can find the recommended mailing deadlines in Delivering the Holidays to Military Service Members Worldwide.
As always, I wish you warm hearths, happy families and memorable days.
Kamlyn
