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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

    February 25, 2025

    Get to Know Wright-Patterson AFB

    Air Force Bases

    Explore Wright-Patterson AFB and learn about housing, local attractions, and resources for military families. Discover the heart of aerospace history and Midwest living.

    January 11, 2025

    For Sale by Owner Success: Enhance Your Home's Appeal

    Selling a Home

    Planning a FSBO for your home sale? Learn how to enhance curb appeal, make strategic upgrades, and showcase your property's best features.

    December 30, 2025

    10 Easy, Low-Cost Ideas to Keep Your Home Warm This Winter

    Home Maintenance

    Try these 10 easy, low-cost tips to keep your home warm this winter and reduce your heating bills with practical advice from MilitaryByOwner.

    December 20, 2024

    NORAD Tracks Santa: A Holiday Tradition for Military Families

    Military Life

    Learn about NORAD's heartwarming tradition of tracking Santa and how it has evolved into a digital age phenomenon for military families everywhere.

    October 09, 2024

    10 Favorite Restaurants Near Camp Pendleton

    Marine Corps Bases

    You’ll find all sorts of food experiences in the San Diego area: food trucks, fine dining, and casual seaside fare. Start with this list of fan favorites, then let us know your favorite restaurant nea...

    June 07, 2024

    Pro PCS Tips From Seasoned Milspouses

    PCS Moves

    Military spouses are pros at moving. Here, they're sharing their tried-and-true PCS tips and the essentials to make it through your next move.

    June 05, 2024

    11 Things to Know Before Your First Overseas PCS Move

    PCS Moves

    Moving overseas with the military? Once the excitement of the news wears off and before you pack your bags, find out a few things to know before you go.

    June 03, 2024

    10 Tips for Selling Your Home When You Have Little Kids

    Selling a Home

    Can you sell your home while living in it with small children? Yes, it's possible! Keep your sanity and your home show-ready with these expert tips.

    May 24, 2024

    16 Ways to Prepare for Your Overseas Military Move

    PCS Moves

    If you're one of the lucky military families with orders to move overseas, this is an exciting time! You may already be dreaming of the travels you'll take, the ways you'll immerse your military kids ...

    May 15, 2024

    Things to Do Near Lackland AFB

    Air Force Bases

    We're covering the top things to do near Lackland AFB in San Antonio, Texas, from historic sites to outdoor adventures and annual events. Plan your itinerary for an unforgettable stay!

    April 05, 2024

    Do You Know About These Resources for Military Kids?

    Military Life

    Military kids show us every day how adaptive and resilient they are. Since they can use all the support they can get, we're sharing a few of our favorite resources.

    March 29, 2024

    Discover San Antonio: What to Know Before Your PCS

    PCS Moves

    Discover all you need to know before your PCS to San Antonio, the vibrant "Military City, USA." Get practical info and explore the rich culture and endless activities in South Texas.