7 Ways to keep your home positive during deployment

A FRIEND OF MINE'S HUSBAND IS ABOUT TO DEPLOY FOR 6 MONTHS AND WHILE THIS IS NOT HER FIRST EXPERIENCE WITH DEPLOYMENT, IT IS HER FIRST WITH A NEWBORN.

Abraham is their first child and he is such a sweet and well behaved boy, but no matter how good the child is being a mommy is hard.  To make it harder, her husband is going to miss out on a big chunk of Abraham's first year of life.  He is going to miss all the milestones of rolling over, eating solids, crawling, standing, and maybe even walking.  So when Ashley's face lights up with joy because she witnessed their son's first of something, she only has herself to share it with.

They both are struggling with this, which is creating a dark and sad cloud over their house. Their is nothing they can do about either, except relish the time they have together now.  She asked me the other day how I would keep positive energy in the house if I were in her shoes.  My first thought was, "wow, those are big shoes to fill!"  But then I sat back and thought about what I would do to keep Josh's spirit ever present and how we would shine through the sadness.  This is what I came up with....

7 WAYS TO KEEP YOUR HOME POSITIVE DURING DEPLOYMENT

1. Pictures....lots of pictures

In the days before your spouse deploys I would take as many photos as I could of them and baby.  Then, I would head to my local thrift store to buy frames and place them all over the house.  I am a picture person, I love looking at memories and I often go through old photos when I need a pick me up.  Also, take photos of you and baby everyday so you can email them, post them, and snail mail them.  Anyways your spouse can see them, do it!

2. YOU need to stay active

The best remedy for any ailment is activity.  Yes, I consider heart ache an ailment and I believe the best way to cure it is by keeping your mind occupied.  What better time to get in shape.  And if you are like my friend who has a newborn - you could use a little exercise. Whatever your preference, walking, running, pilates....just do it.  And if you can bring your little one along.  Mine loves walks, fresh air, and playing in the grass.  If you want to be happy at home, you need to breathe fresh air daily!

3. Create a happy space in your home

Try to limit your time in front of the tube, television will rot your brain!  Find a little nook somewhere in your house and make it your space to do whatever you want in it.  In my home I have an oversized bean bag chair covered in tapestries and pillows where I can plop myself down and read a book.  If I fall asleep, hey thats ok! Add some fresh flowers or lucky bamboo for an extra boost of happy energy....maybe even a candle or two!

4. Cook

Take an oath to start taking better care of your body and the best place to start is by cooking.  Not only will your body thank you but you can't help but be happy when your home smells of yummy herbs and spices!  No matter if you are an experience cook or just learning, cooking is a therapeutic way of dealing with stress and it keeps your mind active.

5. Have friends over

To me a full house is a happy house.  I cannot stand the silence of an empty house, it makes me lonely.  That is what we want to avoid people. loneliness!  So start putting those cooking skills to work and invite friends and family over for dinner parties, weekend cook outs, cooking lessons etc.  Surround yourself with positive people and you will stay positive yourself and your house will shine!

6. Devote your time

If you have kids and/or pets - devote your time to them.  There is nothing worse than walking into a house and seeing a depressed dog or kids that need more attention - it makes the house feel heavy.  Share your heart and soul with your real babies and fur babies and trust me, your house will be full of positive energy!

7. Take a trip(s)

Get out, good lord get out!  Go out into the world and get perspective, it does a world of good to step back a bit to really see what is going on.  It doesn't matter how big or small the getaway is, just do it.  When you arrive back home, implement your new thoughts to create a happier home life.  Home is where the heart is so make it a good one!

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KNOTTS ISLAND, NORTH CAROLINA

    While this tiny unincorporated marshy island in Currituck County may never be a hopping vacation destination, it will always be a beautiful wildlife refuge and a safe haven for migratory waterfowl that pass through the area.  The community is bordered by the Currituck Sound, North Landing River, Back Bay, and Knotts Island Bay thus creating the  Mackay Island National Wildlife Refuge.

Did you know the meaning behind the name Currituck is "land of the wild goose"?    

Yesterday I visited Knotts Island, North Carolina for the first time with my family to take family photos in one of Knotts Island's most popular destinations, Martin Vineyard and Orchard.  My niece, Peaches, turns 1 today so yesterday was essentially her 1 year old portraits/family romp on a farm.  The peach orchard is amazing and the kids had an amazing time picking...primarily eating the peaches will they endured the photo shoot!

There are two ways to get onto the island: a ferry from mainland Currituck or drive directly onto the island from the north in Virginia Beach.  Did you know that all ferries in North Carolina are free??  Yes, free!  Here is a complete list of all the ferries and schedules in North Carolina.

My dog Finn patiently awaiting the arrival of our family!

I came in from the north because I live in Newport News, Virginia but originally I had planned on meeting my family in mainland Currituck and taking the ferry with them.  Turns out that I am so glad that I went that way because it is a GORGEOUS drive!  If you like country roads, mom and pop stores, and wide open fields this is the drive for you.

And if you are living in northeastern North Carolina or southeastern Virignia, Knotts Island is a perfect spot for a quick day trip or even a brief stop will in route to the Outer Banks!

Las Vegas Travel Loans

WHAT'S NEW IN VEGAS RIGHT NOW???

ITS A GUARANTEE THAT SINCE YOUR LAST VISIT TO VEGAS THERE ARE SEVERAL NEW RESTAURANTS, SHOWS, SHOPS, ACCOMMODATIONS, HOT SPOTS, AND MORE SO BOOK YOUR TRIP NOW TO CHECK OUT THESE NEW ADDITIONS TO SIN CITY!

DOWNTOWN AREA

The face lift the downtown area received, called the Fremont Street Experience, has brought new accommodations such as the trendy urban boutique hotel of Oasis at Gold Spike.  The hotel has 44 individually designed and newly remodeled rooms that boast an stylish flare any urban traveler will love!

The downtown scene is suited for all hipster and urban style seekers and families.  Check out the new Downtown Container Park in the Fremont East Entertainment District for a place the whole family will enjoy!  It is an open-air shopping center filled with boutique retail shops, funky restaurants, and live entertainment.  There is an interactive playground  for the kids that features The Treehouse - Vegas can be for kids too!

Before you leave the Fremont District swing through Slotzilla, a zipline that takes you through the heart of the Fremont Street Experience at a height of 114 feet all the way to the  city's most historic casino, the Golden Cat.

THE STRIP

Where to start?!?!?  First, the new boutique hotel and casino, The Cromwell, is home to the first dining venue by a celebrity, chef Giada de Laurentiis.  So book your stay there for high stakes gambling, gourmet eats, and some of the hottest parties on the strip at their rooftop nightclub, Drai's.

Or if you are searching for a block party, live concerts, spa retreats, bowling, and blue ribbon food stay at the LINQ Hotel and Casino just down the road from The Cromwell.

Also, in the same area check out the world's tallest observation wheel, The High Roller!  The wheel itself has LED lights covering the outside and then instead of sitting open air you relax in glass pods that hold up to 40 passengers for a 30 minutes rotation.  Definitely the glitziest observation wheel for sure!

SO WHAT'S NEW IN VEGAS???  TO ME, EVERYTHING - IT DOESN'T HAVE TO BE A NEW ATTRACTION BECAUSE THE GLITZ AND GLAM MAKES IT A TREAT NO MATTER WHAT!

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Treehaus Resort, Texas

THE NAME SAYS IT ALL, YES IT A TREE HOUSE RESORT....PLUS A LAZY RIVER!

THE TREEHAUS RESORT IS PART OF THE SCHLITTERBAHN RESORT, ONE OF AMERICA'S MOST UNIQUE LODGES, AS IT PUTS A NEW, FUN AND EXCITING TWIST ON FAMILY VACATIONS.

FOR THOSE OF YOU STATIONED IN TEXAS, THIS SHOULD BE JUST ANOTHER REASON WHY YOU LOVE YOUR DUTY STATION!

Schlitterbahn Waterpark & Resort New Braunfels is a complete family vacation destination. Schlitterbahn Resort provides a unique opportunity to stay the night in a room just steps away from the world's best collection of water attractions. A wide variety of accommodations include Standard Hotel Rooms,  River Bend Cabins, Treehaus Suites, Schlitterstein Lofts, and Vacation Homes. In addition to spending time at the waterpark, Schlitterbahn Resort is just minutes from shopping and dining in the Gruene historic district and downtown New Braunfels, golf, Natural Bridge Caverns, river tubing, and much more. source

The TreeHaus Resort suites can sleep up to 12, making this destination a great choice when the you want to vacation with your extended family as well.

www.schlitterbahn.com

And check out the lazy river - just imagine how much fun the kiddos could have here!

www.schlitterbahn.com

One of the most attractive aspects of the Schlitterbahn is that is has 5 heated water attractions making it the ultimate vacation destination any time of year!

www.schlitterbahn.com

NOW THAT I HAVE A LITTLE ONE, I AM ALWAYS ON THE LOOK OUT FOR FUN AND STIMULATING THINGS FOR HIM TO DO.  THAT IS WHY TREEHAUS RESORT IS SO ATTRACTIVE FOR ME, TEXAS IS CENTRAL TO EVERY STATE AND JUST A QUICK PLANE RIDE AWAY MAKING IT A GREAT WEEKEND GETAWAY TOO!

The closest airport to Schlitterbahn is San Antonio, just 32 miles south.  So fly in, rent a car, and head north on I-35 and within 40 minutes you will be there!  Parking is always free, and they also offer killer military discounts.  

 THIS WOULD BE AN EXTREMELY AFFORDABLE GETAWAY FOR MILITARY FAMILIES, AS YOU HAVE ACCESS TO UNITED MILITARY TRAVEL'S TRAVEL NOW AND PAY LATER SERVICES, AND SCHLITTERBAHN'S KILLER MILITARY DISCOUNTS.  IF UNITED MILITARY TRAVEL BOOKS YOUR ENTIRE TRIP, THE SAVINGS WOULD BE UNREAL!  CALL IN TODAY TO FIND OUT HOW A VACATION TO TREEHAUS RESORT CAN BE SO AFFORDABLE

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Celebrate Summer!

 

HOW TO DO YOU CELEBRATE SUMMER???

MY FAMILY CELEBRATES SUMMER BY ADMIRING THE SMALLS THINGS; LIKE TAKING TIME TO WATCH THE FIRE FLIES, BEING AWARE WHEN WE ARE IN BETWEEN A SUNSET AND A MOONRISE, RELISHING THE WARM MUGGY AIR BECAUSE BEFORE LONG IT WILL GONE, BEING BAREFOOT, AND LOVING HOW THE LONG DAYS BRING MORE FAMILY TIME.

Not only that, but we also celebrate summer by taking trips to the beach, grilling out...a lot, playing in sprinklers, traveling, gardening, and boating.

Summer time means anything goes - the world is at your finger tips.  If you have a family, it means your kids are a home which creates more chances to take family vacations.  Or more time to create happiness at home!  Bring your fun to your house by creating an amazing, and warm outdoor living space for the kids to enjoy or get out and explore the local parks!  No matter what the season, here are 31 ways to make your outdoor area amazing!!!

EVERYONE WILL CELEBRATE SUMMER IN THEIR OWN WAY - BUT ONE THING WILL BE SAME ACROSS THE BOARD.

THE NEED FOR TOGETHERNESS...

Have you ever noticed that people tend to join groups, make new friends, find new love, and get married in the summer?  There is just something about the warm air, fun times, and free spirits that makes people want to be with others.  We totally should celebrate summer when it evokes love!

Traveling is that way too - it makes you want to share your experiences with other people, to become a pack, and to spread your free spiritness with the world! 

HOW EVER YOU WANT TO CELEBRATE SUMMER, I WANT YOU TO REMEMBER THAT UNITED MILITARY TRAVEL IS HERE TO HELP YOU CELEBRATE AND ENJOY LIFE.  THAT IS WHAT WE DO - WE BRING LIFE TO PEOPLE BY SHARING WITH THEM THE GIFT OF TRAVEL.  SO PLEASE FEEL FREE TO CONTACT US ANYTIME FOR ALL YOUR TRAVEL NEEDS.

TO GET A JUMP START ON CELEBRATING, APPLY HERE FOR TRAVEL.

Best European Countries To Visit In August

IF YOU HAVE BEEN WAITING ALL SUMMER TO TRAVEL TO EUROPE IN AUGUST, THERE ARE A FEW THINGS YOU SHOULD CONSIDER.  WHAT IS THE WEATHER GOING TO BE LIKE, DO YOU WANT TO DEAL WITH BIG CROWDS, AND WILL ALL ESTABLISHMENTS BE OPEN??  BEFORE YOU GO PURCHASING YOUR AIRFARE, READ ON TO LEARN THE BEST EUROPEAN COUNTRIES TO VISIT IN AUGUST.

Not only do YOU want to travel in August but so do the local business owners, even though it is prime travel season in Europe, so expect to find many businesses shut down as they are off on hiatus too.

And please take into consideration the heat factor of the southern countries like Portugal, Spain, Italy, Greece, southern France, and Malta as you will find these areas to be sweltering! I would suggest heading north to the UK, Scotland, Switzerland, Norway, Germany, Belgium, or Holland.  Heck you could fly into Heathrow, London then hop on the train and travel to France, Switzerland, Austria, then fly out of Holland!  Talk about a killer Euro vaca - and it can all be done in 2 weeks or less!  For the best beginner tips to European train travel, check out The Blonde Abroad!

 Another reason to avoid these countries, especially the coast, in the high season is because this is when they will be packed full of other American tourists and others who are on their extended vacations.

Like I mentioned earlier, August is traditionally the time when many locals close up shop to take their family vacations too, so be prepared to find many businesses closed...especially outside the major tourists zones and even in the big cities.

BEST EUROPEAN COUNTRIES TO VISIT IN AUGUST

UNITED KINGDOM

The summer months of June, July, and August will be the country's warmest and driest months so its best to visit here in the summer.  Undoubtably, you will be among millions of other tourists but at least you will not be wet and freezing to death.  With the many, many things to do in the UK you would be best narrowing it down by picking a couple of festivals, or find a beach that suits you, and visit some historic towns....after you hang in London a while to experience everything the United Kingdom has to offer!

SWITZERLAND

Depending on your priorities, visitors can enjoy different corners of Switzerland at almost any time of year. Summer boasts Switzerland’s nicest weather, yet it’s also when the country is packed with tourists. Meanwhile, winter sports enthusiasts should head to Switzerland during colder months, and people looking for one-of-a-kind Swiss celebrations can choose among festivities throughout the year.

AUSTRIA 

Austria has four seasons with plenty to do year-round. The most popular time to visit in general is May through September, when tourists come for city breaks, culture, and festivals. Popular cities include Vienna, Salzburg, Innsbruck, and Graz but keep in mind that Salzburg pretty much shuts down due to crowds during the Salzburg Festival in July and August.

HOLLAND

August is prime festival season in the Netherlands making August an amazing time to get your fill of the local culture, and it is also when the weather is perfect.  But this also means rubbing shoulders with other tourists, waiting in lines, and higher prices.  That is what every high season means though, and trust me you rather visit the Netherlands when the weather is nice, otherwise you will get rained on and freeze.

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Family vacations to the Bahamas

DID YOU KNOW THAT THE BAHAMAS IS MADE UP OF 700 ISLANDS?  FROM THE MOST POPULAR ISLAND OF NASSAU TO THE SECLUSION OF ELEUTHERA THERE IS AN ISLAND FOR EVERY TYPE OF VACATION YOU ARE LOOKING FOR.  FROM DIVING ADVENTURES, GOLF RETREATS, SAILING, OR ALL INCLUSIVE GETAWAYS - THE BAHAMAS OFFERS IT ALL.  AND TO TOP IT ALL OFF, FAMILY VACATION TO THE BAHAMAS HAS NEVER BEEN EASIER AND MORE AFFORDABLE!

IF A FAMILY VACATION TO THE BAHAMAS IS IN YOUR FUTURE, YOU CERTAINLY HAVE A BRIGHT FUTURE AHEAD OF YOU AS THE ISLANDS ARE A PLAYGROUND FOR CHILDREN.  FROM BUILDING SAND CASTLES WITH PERFECTLY PINK SAND, FINDING EXQUISITE TROPICAL SEASHELLS, DIVING INTO THE LOCAL PIRATE HISTORY, AND MANY, MANY  OTHER ATTRACTIONS THIS WILL BE A VACATION YOUR KIDDOS WILL REMEMBER FOR THE REST OF THEIR LIFE.

HERE IS A BRIEF LIST OF FAMILY FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES IN THE BAHAMAS

1. Pirates of Nassau

The Bahamas are the mecca for all the pirate lovers, to take the kids to Pirates of Nassau for tales of the high seas, view original pirate artifacts, and experience interactive exhibits on the original pirates of the Caribbean.

2. Ardastra Gardens, Zoo and Conservation Center

This conservation center is one of the best in the world as they feature animals specific to the Bahamas and also many exotic ones from around the world.  View the Bahamas's famous marching flamingos, and then more endangered species like jaguars and Madagascar lemurs.  The best way to spend your day at a zoo is by turning it into an education experience by teaching your kids about the habitat the animals live in, what continent, what being endangered means, and how we can help protect them.

3. Surrey Horse Pavilion

This horse pavilion is located on Prince George Wharf and offers horse carriage rides through the Old City of Nassau plus other sites as a guided history tour.  The kids can pick out their favorites horse to take them off the tour too!

4. Atlantis

Does Atlantis really need an introduction?  This megaresort is the Caribbean's largest casino and water park so it is  a haven for kids and adults alike!  The kids can hang out in the 8,000 square foot kids camp,  participate in a pottery painting class, or  learn remote control car making and racing while the adults enjoy some much needed R&R!  Atlantis is one of United Military Travel's most popular destinations, so call us today to find out how you can make this your next vacation! 

 5. Blue Lagoon Island Dolphin Encounter

Both Nassau and Freeport, on Grand Bahama Island, offer the chance to have close encounters of the dolphin kind. Blue Lagoon Island Dolphin Encounter, off Paradise Island, lets you stand waist deep in a protected pool of water and interact with trained dolphins, or put on snorkeling gear and swim with them.

6. UNEXSO

In Freeport, UNEXSO (one of whose founders was Jacques Cousteau) has a similar program at Sanctuary Bay, a refuge for dolphins. After a performance of backflips and other tricks, these intelligent creatures literally snuggle up to be petted. Older children and adults also can spend a day learning how these remarkable creatures are trained.

7. The Exumas

Here you will find water sports to be abundant so try your hand at parasailing, snorkeling, and boating.  Also, take a boat trip out to Big Major's Cay to see the famous swimming pigs - just don't forget to bring some scraps to feed them!

8. Giant starfish

While in the Exumas, head over to Great Exumas to interact with giant starfish - a sure fire way to get your kids excited about marine life!

9. Stuart Cove's Dive Bahamas

If your kids are 12 years old and up take them to Stuart Cove's Dive Bahamas for a SUB (scenic underwater bubble) tour where they can zoom around reefs and not even get wet! After all, majority of the Bahamas's beauty lies underwater...

10. Seaworld Tours

Seaward Tours offers a similar attraction to SUBing.  Check them out for semi submarine tours of Nassau Harbor and Paradise Island for sightseeing above and below water.

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Riu Palace, Paradise Island

ANOTHER BENEFIT OF VACATIONING THE IN BAHAMAS IS THAT THEY OFFER A SLEW OF BUDGET AND FAMILY FRIENDLY RESORTS - CHECK OUT THE TOP RANKED RESORTS FOR FAMILIES HERE!

CONTACT UNITED MILITARY TRAVEL TODAY FOR YOUR EASY ASSIST TRAVEL LOAN FOR A FAMILY VACATION TO THE BAHAMAS!

 

United Military Shop

TECHNOLOGY AND TRAVELING ARE SYNONYMOUS WITH EACH OTHER THIS DAY IN AGE AND THAT IS WHY I INVITE YOU TO CHECK OUT THE UNITED MILITARY  SHOP.

UNITED MILITARY SHOP IS A PLACE WHERE YOU CAN FIND ANYTHING AND EVERYTHING YOU NEED FOR YOUR TRAVELS PLUS MORE!  UNITED MILITARY SHOP PROVIDES MILITARY & GOVERNMENT FINANCING FOR AN ARRAY OF MERCHANDISE! FINANCE YOUR ELECTRONICS, FURNITURE, TOOLS, AND FINE HANDBAGS!

With all the different travel apps available, traveling with a smart device is almost a necessity.  Well, maybe not a necessity but wouldn't it be nice to snap a photo, upload it to an app, and send it as an actual postcard to someone???  Or be able to check the weather in a foreign country and view it in English, or even reserve a cab overseas without worrying about finding a cabbie's number???

I personally enjoy traveling with both a smartphone and an iPad for all my techie needs.  Usually when me and my family travel it is for an extended period of time so being able to Skype is a must.  Also, we use Airbnb quite often and on the fly when abroad so having a tablet makes finding a place suitable super easy!  Last time we used it we were in staying along the coast of Nicaragua, hooked up to a resorts wifi to research homes in Granada, booked it and was there that night!

Oh and lets not mention how many cameras I travel with....it is slightly ridiculous!  I like to bring a simple point and shoot, like my Nikon COOLPIX for is 34x zoom and easy functionality, plus my Nikon D5500 for when I want to take my nice, professional photographs!  Then my husband travels everywhere with his GoPro  so when he surfs, fishes, go dirt biking etc he can capture it all!

 IT IS SUPER SIMPLE TO ADD ANY ITEM YOU FIND ON UNITED MILITARY SHOP TO YOUR TRAVEL LOAN, ALL YOU HAVE TO DO IS LET YOUR TRAVEL CONSULTANT KNOW WHAT YOU ARE INTERESTED IN AND VIOLA!  YOUR ITEMS WILL SHIP WHEREVER YOU WANT THEM TOO - NO MATTER WHAT COUNTRY YOU ARE IN!

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CONTACT UNITED MILITARY SHOP 844-221-7287

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UNITED MILITARY TRAVEL 866-582-9579

FOR ALL YOUR TRAVEL NEEDS!  

Life in Alaska Guide

LIFE IN ALASKA IS NOT ONLY EXTREMELY DIFFERENT THAN LIVING IN THE "SOUTH" BUT IT IS A REMARKABLE LIFE.  IF YOU ARE MOVING TO ALASKA OR ARE CONSIDERING IT, THERE ARE A FEW THINGS YOU NEED TO UNDERSTAND BEFORE HAND.

LIKE ANY OTHER MOVING ADVENTURE, THERE ARE A FEW THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE PLACE YOU ARE RELOCATING TO.  MY MOVE TO ALASKA WAS BEFORE THE PINTEREST "HOW TO" ERA, AND I REALLY KNEW NO ONE THAT EVEN HAD VISITED, SO EVERYTHING FOR ME WAS TRIAL AND ERROR.  I DO NOT WANT THE SAME FOR YOU.

THAT IS WHY I PUT TOGETHER THIS LIFE IN ALASKA GUIDE!

* FIRST, TRANSPORTATION IS A LITTLE DIFFERENT THAN THE LOWER 48'S...

Depending on where you are moving to don't be surprised if the main form of transportation are float planes or boats.  Many towns, like Cordova, don't even have a road that leads into them - you have to fly.

* SECOND, COST OF LIVING IS MUCH HIGHER

When you do your first grocery shopping trip, be prepared for a frozen pizza to cost $15 or a gallon of milk to cost $10.  When you live in a place where almost everything has to be imported, you are going to have to pay extra.  So if you are used to spending a certain amount on food a month - go ahead and add $250 to it.  Also, housing is ridiculously expensive!  Depending on where you move to, a decent two bedroom apartment will be around $1500.

* THIRD, TRY TO ARRIVE IN THE SUMMERTIME

This to me is important for the obvious reasons...better weather and more daylight.

* FOURTH, ALASKA CREATES IT OWN WEATHER PATTERNS

I lived in the Gulf of Alaska on a remote island and trying to predict the weather was nearly impossible.  We would kind of judge it from what the weather in Anchorage was doing but for the most part we were on our own.

* FIFTH, ALASKA DOES NOT CARE ABOUT FASHION UNLESS IT HAS A FUNCTION

You will not see anyone rocking the latest sneakers, brand name jeans, or designer purses but rather people in hiking boots, fowl weather gear, wool sweaters, and durable backpacks.  The things that truly matter up there are things that directly relate to life, not consumerist items.  Most Alaskans have only the things they need and not much more, so items that will keep them warm, feed them, and keep them safe take precedent.

* SIXTH, PEOPLE LOVE GUNS

If you are squeamish about guns then Alaska may not be the state for you.  It is a necessity to own one and also know how to use it.  You will see guns everywhere, because unlike in the lower 48's there is danger almost around every corner.

* SEVENTH, SOME PEOPLE ARE RUDE BUT WHO CARES

I remember one day walking along the street and smiling as a passed by a group of locals only to receive a nasty stare.  At first it hurt my feelings because I am friendly to everyone and have a warm welcoming demeanor about me.  But, after being there a few months I realized that the majority of the locals are really nice and helpful...you will always have a few bad seeds!  I feel like true Alaskan locals are similar to Hawaiian locals, as in they really do not like the "white folks" but have learned to co-exist with them over time.

* EIGHTH, THE WILDLIFE IS GOING TO BE MORE AMAZING THAN YOU EVER DREAMED!

There really are just no words to describe the pure, raw beauty Alaska offers to all the creatures that call Alaska home.  It truly is the way the world is supposed to be.  To look all around and not see a single building and animals having free roam of the land and waters.  If there is anything I miss about life in Alaska it is the wildlife.  My biggest tip for the outdoor adventurer is to always carry a gun or at least have someone with you carry one, and also wear a bear bell.  If a bear hears you coming it is far better than sneaking up on one!

* NINTH, YOU WILL BECOME A SURVIVER

The winters are long and cold so you enviably will become accustomed to fighting the cold, driving in extreme conditions, being stuck inside for long periods, and without creature comforts.  You will have fight yourself to get through a winter, but in the long run you will become more in tune with yourself and whomever you are with.  Just sit back and enjoy the process of life in Alaska.  

* TENTH, THE GUY TO GIRL RATIO DOES NOT WORK OUT IN THE GUYS FAVOR

Being a girl in Alaska, I found myself a minority almost.  I worked at a hatchery and out of the 30 people there were only 3 girls including myself.  With that being said, Alaska does have a high rape crime rate so if you are traveling to Alaska by yourself, always be aware and try to avoid bad situations.

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IF YOU ARE PLANNING ON A LIFE IN ALASKA UNITED MILITARY TRAVEL WOULD LOVE TO HELP YOU IN THE PROCESS.  WHETHER IT BE A PCS THROUGH THE COAST GUARD OR JUST A TRIP, WE ARE HERE FOR YOU!

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