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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 10, 2023

    Avoid These Emotional Mistakes When Buying a Home

    Home Buying

    When you're househunting, it can be so easy to fall in love with a home and close your eyes to some of its problems. Here's how to avoid getting too attached and stay objective as a potential homeowne...

    February 02, 2023

    Expert Tips for Your First PCS Move

    PCS Moves

    If this is your first military move, you probably have some concerns and questions about what’s ahead. We're sharing some best tips and advice from experienced military families.

    October 07, 2022

    Helping Military Kids Get Through Multiple Deployments of a Parent

    Military Life

    Studies show that over 2 million children have experienced the wartime deployment of a parent in the past decade, many of them going through repeated deployments of their parent. Learn about the help ...

    June 06, 2022

    Get Outdoors Near Joint Base Lewis-McChord

    Military Life

    Whether you're setting out to a nearby destination or taking a trip to explore the Pacific Northwest, take a look at a few ideas for your next outdoor adventure near Joint Base Lewis-McChord.

    May 06, 2022

    22 Things Military Spouses Never Say During Deployment

    Military Life

    If you're a military spouse who's been through a couple of deployments, you know there are things you just won't say. What would you add to this list?

    April 20, 2022

    12 Lessons I Learned from Living Overseas

    PCS Moves

    An overseas PCS is an exciting time, but also an opportunity for learning! You might find you learn some unexpected lessons.

    September 10, 2021

    Remembering September 11: Stories from Military Families

    Military Life

    Never forget. Never again. It’s something we said in the days following 9/11, and it’s important to continue sharing our stories. I asked some military families what they remember about that day. Here...

    September 08, 2021

    6 Surprising Things About Living Overseas

    PCS Moves

    What's life really like living in another country? We took a poll of some military families about their experiences with an overseas PCS move, and here's what they shared!

    June 25, 2021

    Military Spouse Jobs & Networking at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam

    Air Force Bases

    Are you a military spouse at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam? Find ideas to connect with other spouses, discover volunteer opportunities, or further your employment!

    June 14, 2021

    8 Amazing Hikes near Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam

    Air Force Bases

    As you settle into your Hawaii assignment, it’s time to start exploring! The island offers an abundance of hikes which feature mountain and ocean views, waterfalls, and the chance to challenge any ski...

    March 26, 2021

    Insider Tips: Travel to Oahu

    Travel Tips

    Traveling or making a PCS move to Oahu? Here's a starting point of "don't miss" sights and experiences!

    July 03, 2020

    12 Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventures Near Military Bases

    Military Life

    Whether it's an outdoor activity or searching for the paranormal, there's fun for the whole family near these military bases across the U.S.