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    Jen McDonald

    Jen McDonald is the Content Editor for MilitaryByOwner Advertising and an award-winning author, podcaster, and longtime cheerleader for military spouses. Over 30+ years of military life, she raised four kids, supported her husband’s Air Force career, kept a freelance writing career afloat, tracked which state her driver’s license belonged to, and perfected the art of unpacking a house in under three days while pretending she meant to put the coffee mugs in that cupboard. Jen is the author of You Are Not Alone: Encouragement for the Heart of a Military Spouse and Milspouse Matters: Sharing Strength Through Our Stories, books offering encouragement and “been there” wisdom for military families. Her writing has earned numerous awards, including a Gold Medal from the Military Writers Society of America and a Silver Award from Foreword INDIES, proof that scribbling notes on the back of grocery receipts can pay off. She also hosts the Milspouse Matters podcast, sharing stories and encouragement with military families worldwide. Now happily planted in Texas (and hoping to avoid moving trucks for the foreseeable future), Jen is working on her debut cozy mystery novel and reveling in grandparenting, which comes with all the snuggles and none of the 2 a.m. feedings. Connect with Jen at her site, Jen McDonald and Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest.

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    Posts By Jen McDonald

    August 02, 2025

    8 Nature Trails Near Joint Base Langley-Eustis

    Army Posts

    If you’re stationed at Joint Base Langley-Eustis (JBLE) in the Hampton Roads area of Virginia, finding outdoor activities is easy! Add these area trails on or near Fort Eustis or Langley AFB to your l...

    July 10, 2025

    The Accidental Military Landlord

    Property Management

    Managing a rental property unexpectedly and need some guidance? Learn essential tips for success with this resource from MilitaryByOwner.

    July 02, 2025

    4 Reasons Military Families Love to Retire Near Maxwell AFB

    Military Life

    Affordable housing, outdoor opportunities, and Southern charm are just a few reasons why the Maxwell AFB area is a popular location for military retirement.

    June 17, 2025

    11 Ways to Get Outdoors in San Antonio

    Military Life

    If you're stationed at Joint Base San Antonio, it's time to head outside. Add these outdoor adventures near Lackland AFB, Randolph AFB, Fort Sam Houston, and Camp Bullis to your must-do list.

    June 06, 2025

    Your PCS Move to Fort Buchanan, Puerto Rico

    Army Posts

    The island of Puerto Rico is known as the “Island of Enchantment,” and you’ll soon discover why if you're stationed here! Learn more about your military assignment to Fort Buchanan.

    June 02, 2025

    6 Resources for a Military Move with Pets

    PCS Moves

    Simplify your military move with pets using these helpful resources, from pet relocation grants to foster care options and military transport assistance.

    May 17, 2025

    Do You Need an Attorney for Your FSBO?

    Selling a Home

    Learn why hiring a real estate attorney for your FSBO can help ensure a smooth and legally compliant home-selling process.

    May 15, 2025

    13 Military Housing Do's and Don'ts

    Military Life

    We're sharing essential do's and don’ts for living military housing, offering tips for military renters on community living, home maintenance, and navigating base life.

    May 10, 2025

    Can a Military Family Move Overseas Without Command Sponsorship?

    PCS Moves

    Can military dependents move overseas with the service member without command sponsorship? Let’s break it down. 

    May 02, 2025

    The Best U.S. Military Bases for Outdoor Enthusiasts

    Military Life

    Discover incredible U.S. military bases that offer military families a chance to explore the great outdoors. From beaches to mountians, these bases provide endless opportunities for outdoor adventures...

    March 28, 2025

    Your Top 5 Favorite Air Force Bases

    Air Force Bases

    We asked, and you answered! As part of our ongoing series of favorite duty stations, we’re now turning our attention to your most-loved Air Force bases around the world. 

    March 20, 2025

    Top Veteran-Friendly Cities Across the U.S.

    Military Life

    We're sharing some of the top U.S. cities offering veterans affordable living, community support, and essential services for a smooth transition to civilian life.