Over the 18 years I’ve been a military brat, my family’s been stationed at Fort Leavenworth for about nine years (over three different times). Most recently, when we were told we’d be going back to Kansas, I was upset. Kansas… ugh. What’s there to like about Kansas?  Well, as I’ve found out, there’s a lot to like about Kansas. Even in the small town of Leavenworth, which I can drive across in no more than 15 minutes, I have found an extensive amount of joy.  Signature Cafes  Downtown...

As a military teen, I’ve never been able to actually choose where I went next. While my family has always had a say in the place we move to, I could never absolutely choose where. The military could always say, “Nope - you’re going here.” I’m currently a senior in high school, and I’ve spent the last three years ignoring the very prevalent question of “where do I want to go to college?” I couldn’t figure out where I want to move. I suddenly have the ability to choose, and I couldn’t. Until… I...

Thanksgiving – a time to look back on our lives and realize just how much we’re grateful for. As I scroll through social media, I see love and appreciation going out to friends, to family members, and to pets. I see my friends stationed around the world celebrating a holiday of thanks with the people around them.  As I reflect on my life, I realize that I’m thankful not just for the people around me, but for my lifestyle. I can’t imagine a version of me without moving and without all the...