Hey Women Warriors, 

This month is packed with holidays, and chances are you're celebrating one (or a few)! Whether you’re juggling festive plans, reflecting on the year, or just trying to stay warm, we’ve got tips, resources, and inspiration to help you thrive this December.

Let's Go!
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The Top 10 Holiday Stressors for Veterans
Holiday Survival Guide: Stress Less, Smile More
Mark Your Calendar: December's Special Observances & Free Resources
Finish Strong: Easy Money Moves for Women Veterans"
Motivational Memo
Happy Birthday National Guard: Hometown Heroes with a Big Mission!
​VA Claims Corner -DIC Benefits: Support for Families of Fallen Heroes

#10: Crowds and Shopping.
Trying to find that perfect gift… while dodging aisle traffic and keeping your sanity intact.

#9: Travel Stress.
Because nothing says “holiday cheer” like a flight delay, crowded terminals, and sitting next to someone who brought tuna salad on the plane.

#8: Pressure to Create a Perfect Holiday.
Deck the halls, bake the cookies, host the party… and hope nobody notices the chaos behind the scenes.

#7: Time Management.
Balancing work, family, and last-minute holiday events like a poorly planned military mission.

#6: Diet and Health Concerns.
Cookies, eggnog, and pie—because gaining five pounds in December is practically a tradition.

#5: Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).
Shorter days, colder weather, and wondering if it’s too early to start counting down to spring.

​Scroll to the bottom for the complete list…

The Feel Better Journal is a thoughtfully crafted prompted journal designed to help veterans express their thoughts and emotions through writing, offering a therapeutic outlet for self-reflection and healing. It’s available in Hers and His versions.

Ah, the holidays—twinkling lights, festive treats, and… stress? If this time of year feels more like a marathon than a magical wonderland, don’t worry—you’re not alone. For women veterans, the holidays can bring extra challenges, but with a few simple tips, you can stress less and smile more this season. Let’s dive in!

1. Stress Less with Simple Tricks
The holidays are like juggling flaming marshmallows—fun but overwhelming. Here’s how to keep it together:
- Plan It Out: Grab a calendar and schedule everything from shopping to napping. Yes, napping counts.
- Say No Sometimes: You don’t have to bake 500 cookies or attend every ugly sweater party. Pick what makes you happy.
- Take a Breather: Sip your favorite drink, take a walk, or hide in the bathroom for five minutes of peace.
Pro Tip: Hosting? Ask someone else to bring dessert. Everyone loves pie—especially when you don’t have to bake it.

2. Budget-Friendly Holiday Help
Feeling broke? No shame! These resources are here to save the day:
- Operation Homefront: They’ve got toys and meals for military families. Check them out online.
- VA Programs: Need help with housing or bills? The VA might have you covered.
- Local Giving Trees: Many communities and churches have programs that help veterans during the holidays.
Remember: It’s okay to ask for help. These programs are here for YOU. See the resources sections for more helping organizations.

3. Beat the Holiday Blues
Feeling lonely? Let’s fix that:
- Join a Virtual Event: Lots of veteran groups host online hangouts—no travel required!
- Volunteer: Helping others feels good and keeps you connected.
- Call a Friend: Sometimes, a quick chat with an old buddy is all it takes to feel less alone.
Hot Tip: If the blues hit hard, reach out for support. Dial 988 and press 1 to connect with the Veterans Crisis Line. They’re always ready to listen. See the resources section for more mental health and stress resources.

4. Find Joy in the Small Stuff
The holidays don’t need to be perfect to be awesome. Try this:
- Watch a holiday movie while snuggled up with a blanket and hot cocoa.
- Take a walk to see the lights (bonus points if you bring cookies).
- Start a new tradition, like writing down what you’re grateful for—or what made you laugh this year.
You’ve Got This!

The holidays might be messy, but they can still be meaningful. Focus on what matters most—peace, connection, and the things that make you smile.
​From all of us at Women Warriors Connect, Happy Holidays! You’ve got this! 🎄

December is:
International AIDS Awareness Month: https://frontlineaids.org/
Safe Toys and Gifts Month: https://preventblindness.org/safe-toy-checklist/

Dec 1 Civil Air Patrol (USAF Auxiliary) Birthday
Dec 7 Pearl Harbor Day
Dec 13 National Guard Birthday
Dec 14 National Wreaths Across America - https://www.wreathsacrossamerica.org/
Dec 20 U.S. Space Force Birthday (Founded in 2019)
Dec 24-25 Christmas Eve and Christmas Day
Dec 251Jan 2 Hanukkah
Dec 26-Jan 1 Kwanzaa
Dec 31 New Year’s Eve

Organizations that help military/veterans during the holidays.
- Full Circle Home: https://www.fullcirclehome.org/
- Hugs for Heroes: https://www.hugsforsoldiers.org/christmas-for-a-soldier
- Military Families in Ministry: https://militaryfamiliesministry.com/
- Military Card Challenge: https://militaryholidaycardchallenge.com/
 -Military Missions: https://militarymissions.org/adoptahero/
- For North Carolina military Operation North State: http://www.operationnorthstate.com/
- Soldiers' Angels- https://soldiersangels.org/
- Winter Military Coloring Page for kids:  https://www.operationwearehere.com/ColoringWinter.pdf

Stress Management:
- Mental Health apps: The Virtual Hope Box; The Mindfulness Coach; Breathe2Relax; Tactical Breather; Anger and Irritability Management Skills; PTSD Coach; PTSD Family Coach; Mood Coach; Positive Activity Jackpot; T2 Mood Tracker; Life Armor; Moving Forward; Parenting2Go; Dream EZ; VetChange; Together Strong; Stay Quit; MOVE! Coach Mobile; The Concussion Coach; MindShift; eMoods; What's Up; MoodTools; MY3; CBT Thought Record Diary; Stop, Breathe, & Think; Gottman Card Decks; Quit That!; OpiRescue; FlexDek MAT
- Camaraderie Foundation- https://camaraderiefoundation.org
- Give an Hour- https://giveanhour.org/military
- Head Strong- https://theheadstrongproject.org/get-help

Financial:
- AFCPE Veteran Saves Program- https://veteransaves.org/
- Gary Sinise Foundation- https://www.garysinisefoundation.org/
- Dixon Center- https://www.dixoncenter.org
- First Stop Veteran's Resource Center- https://standown.org/first-stop-veterans-resource-center/

The end of 2024 is the perfect time to get your financial house in order and start 2025 like a boss. Don’t stress—it’s easier than it sounds! Here are some quick tips to help you make the most of your money, benefits, and opportunities before the clock strikes midnight.

1. Use Those VA Benefits!
- File Claims Now: If you’ve been putting off filing a VA claim or appeal, do it before the year ends to avoid delays.
- Education Check: Make sure you’ve used all your GI Bill or vocational rehab benefits for this term. Some benefits might not carry over!
- Healthcare Hustle: Got appointments or prescriptions to handle? Get them done before January hits.
Pro Tip: Need help? Contact a Veteran Service Officer (VSO)—they’re like a GPS for your benefits. https://www.va.gov/vso

2. Snag Tax Breaks
- State Perks: Check your state for veteran property tax breaks or income deductions.
- Charity Wins: Donated to a cause this year? Claim it for a tax deduction!
- Education Credits: Using the GI Bill? You might qualify for the Lifetime Learning Credit, which can save you cash.
Action Step: Gather those receipts now so tax season is a breeze. https://www.militaryonesource.mil/financial-legal/taxes/miltax-military-tax-services/

3. Budget Like a Boss
- Review and Adjust: Look at your 2024 spending—where can you save?
- Start Saving: Even $20 a week can grow into something big. Try a high-yield savings account!
- Set a Goal: Want to pay off debt or save for a dream vacation? Write it down and make a plan.
Pro Tip: Free budgeting apps for veterans make this super easy—get one today! (Sen$e app)

4. Boost Your Career Game
- Resume Glow-Up: Add your 2024 wins and certifications.
- Use Job Programs: Check out groups like Hiring Our Heroes for free career help.
- Learn Something New: Use veteran programs to pick up skills or certifications for a higher paycheck.
Action Step: Join a veteran networking group—you never know where it’ll lead! https://vets2industry.org/

5. Build Confidence, Not Just Cash
- Learn and Earn: Free money workshops from the VA or USAA can teach you the ropes.
- Use Discounts: From travel to retail, your veteran status = savings galore.
- Emergency Fund: Start saving for those unexpected curveballs. Even a little helps!

Let’s Rock 2025!
By tackling these simple steps, you’ll end 2024 strong and step into 2025 ready to crush it. You’ve got the resilience and smarts to make this your year—so let’s go!

Here’s to your success!

"As a woman veteran, I have learned to embrace my true potential and never limit myself. The military taught me that I am capable of achieving anything I set my mind to. I am a warrior, a leader, and a force to be reckoned with." – Emily, U.S. Navy Veteran

Did you know the National Guard has been around since 1636? That’s right—these heroes started as colonial militias protecting towns and families, and today they’re still serving both their communities and the entire country.

The National Guard is like the Swiss Army knife of the military. They’re part of the Army and Air Force reserves and can be called to help during big disasters like floods, fires, and storms. They also train to defend the U.S. in wars and other missions. While they can be deployed overseas, many Guard members stay close to home, making a difference in their own communities.

Here’s the cool part: National Guard soldiers train just one weekend a month and two weeks a year, but they’re always ready to jump into action. Plus, they get awesome benefits like tuition assistance, VA home loans, and health insurance.

The next time there’s a local or national emergency, the National Guard will likely be the first responders. They’re ready to roll anytime the president or a state governor calls on them. So, as the National Guard celebrates its birthday this December, let’s give a big shout-out to these everyday heroes who do it all! 🎉
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Dependency Indemnity Compensation (DIC) is a monthly, tax-free benefit provided to eligible surviving spouses, children, or dependents of military service members or veterans who have passed away due to their service or certain qualifying conditions. Here's what you need to know about eligibility and how to apply.

Veteran Eligibility
To qualify for DIC, the veteran must meet one of the following criteria:
- Passed away while on active duty.
- Died from a service-related injury or illness.
- Died from a non-service-related condition but was receiving full VA compensation for a service-connected disability and:
      - Had VA compensation for at least 10 years before their death.
      - Had VA compensation for at least 5 years since their release from active duty.
      - Was a former prisoner of war and had VA compensation for at least 1 year prior to death (after September 30, 1999).

Spouse Eligibility
Surviving spouses must meet one of the following conditions:
- Married the service member who died on active duty or during training.
- Married the veteran before January 1, 1957.
- Married the veteran within 15 years of their discharge, during which the service-related condition began or worsened.
- Was married to the veteran for at least one year or had a child with the veteran.
- Lived continuously with the veteran until their death, unless separation was not their fault, and has not remarried.

Child Eligibility
Eligible children must be:
- Unmarried and under 18, or between 18 and 23 and in school.
- Qualifying helpless adult children may also receive benefits.

How to Apply
Complete the DIC application form https://www.vba.va.gov/pubs/forms/VBA-21P-534EZ-ARE.pdf
and submit it to your local VA office. For assistance, call the VA at 800-827-1000. Surviving families may receive additional payments based on the number of children.
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#10: Crowds and Shopping.
Trying to find that perfect gift… while dodging aisle traffic and keeping your sanity intact.

#9: Travel Stress.
Because nothing says “holiday cheer” like a flight delay, crowded terminals, and sitting next to someone who brought tuna salad on the plane.

#8: Pressure to Create a Perfect Holiday.
Deck the halls, bake the cookies, host the party… and hope nobody notices the chaos behind the scenes.

#7: Time Management.
Balancing work, family, and last-minute holiday events like a poorly planned military mission.

#6: Diet and Health Concerns.
Cookies, eggnog, and pie—because gaining five pounds in December is practically a tradition.

#5: Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).
Shorter days, colder weather, and wondering if it’s too early to start counting down to spring.

#4: Financial Pressure.
Nothing says “Merry Christmas” like an overdrafted bank account and a January budget hangover.

#3: Family Dynamics.
Because everyone loves a little extra drama with their holiday dinner.

#2: Grief or Loss.
Honoring the ones we’ve lost and managing the memories that resurface this time of year.

#1: Loneliness or Isolation.
Feeling like you're on your own, missing the camaraderie of service or the family you’ve built along the way.

(And there you have it, folks—your top 10 holiday stressors, straight from the trenches!)

What are your thoughts on this list? Did they get it right? Is it even in the right order?
Let me know: support@womenwarriorsconnect.com
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