The December holidays present a mixed bag for military academy families. For some, it’s a social media highlight reel of smiling faces and other Kodak moments. For others, it’s relatively uneventful, with some nice moments mixed with a few speed bumps. Then there are those that see their hopes for a joyful reunion turned upside … Continue reading Christmas wishes and patently bad decisions

As I write this, Black Friday is winding down and the annual frenzy of doorbusters and discounts is fading away as our attention turns from Thanksgiving's feast to Christmas. I have my list ready, which I want to share, but I've already received an annual gift that makes November great. First, let's talk shopping, USNA … Continue reading A Christmas list and some early gifts received

Now in the throes of November, we train our eyes on Thanksgiving which will provide another glimpse of how life connected to a military academy and the military changes your perspective. As a kid, Thanksgiving meant two things - football and food, plenty of both. Upon becoming a parent, it provided a welcome respite from … Continue reading The challenge of being thankful

November arrives on The Yard and even though it doesn’t usher in a new season, it brings its own winds of change. The brilliant colors of October begin to fade, the days become shorter, and the wind comes off the Severn just a bit colder. All of that can bring about a subtle shift in … Continue reading Those Dark Nights of the Soul

It’s often said that a person doesn’t get appointed to a military academy, an entire family gets appointed. Sure, the son or daughter does the really hard part - they endure Induction Day, live at the bottom run of the ladder during that first year, balance a staggering academic load with military duties and extracurriculars, … Continue reading My commissioning as a military parent feels complete