Some links in this blog post are sponsored or affiliate links where I may receive a small commission if you purchase items through my link at no extra charge to you. I'll be honest, finding gifts for my husband around the holidays is not the easiest thing to do. We usually stick to one gift for each of us plus stocking stuffers. Stocking stuffers can actually get pretty pricey and I don't like to fill it with junk that he won't use. So finding gift ideas that are practical, fairly inexpensive, and ones that he will use are what I am always looking for. Here are some of the most Click for more
How to conquer the loneliness of police wife life
After my husband graduated the academy, I stared at him as he pressed his uniform before he began his first shift on the road. He looked so handsome and so excited to finally start his career in law enforcement. I was excited for him and could not have been more proud. After a few weeks though, the excitement settled and loneliness set in. I quickly realized that police wife life would leave me with a lot of time on my hands. We worked opposite schedules, you see. I worked as a teacher and was home around 5 p.m. My officer worked night shift and left for shift around 3 p.m. This meant that Click for more
How to talk to your kids about the holidays as a law enforcement family
Every year I feel like I am having the same conversation(s) with my kids regarding the holidays as a law enforcement family and their daddy's job. The first few years were the easiest, actually, because they were so little so they didn't notice any differences. But as they grow and see that our family celebrates at different times than people they know or at different times of the day, I get asked questions. We use this time as a family to help our children understand flexibility, patience and that the holidays mean making the most of our time with the people we love. As a parent of Click for more
The Police Spouse’s Emotional Guide for Navigating Christmas
In the 15 years that I have been a police spouse, my husband and I have had our fair share of holidays apart. Some years I adapted more easily than others. My first few years, when we were newly married, were some of the hardest. After that, once we had babies, was another hard season of navigating the holidays. It wasn't just the fact that he was working and I was home that made it hard. I was mentally tired of explaining to friends and family what our holiday plans were. I was tired of hearing the jokes "are you even married?" I longed to make our own traditions as a newly married couple Click for more
The #1 Buying/Selling Home Program for First Responders
This is a sponsored blog post on behalf of Honor the Brave. All opinions are honest and my own. If you are buying or selling a home any time soon and you are a first responder (or your spouse is) then why not save some money while doing it? The best buying/selling home program for first responders is Honor the Brave. They are a first responder owned family company that has a mission to give back to their first responder clients when buying or selling a home. My husband and I have personally used Honor the Brave to sell a home and again to purchase a home. They were amazing to work Click for more
5 Ways First Responder Families Can Save Money During the Holiday Season
This is a guest post by Heroes Financial Coaching. First responder families have enough to stress over, the holidays don't need to be one of them. Holidays are a wonderful time to gather with family and friends and celebrate together, whatever day that might happen for the first responder family. For many though, this time brings lots of stress, especially financial stress. Do you feel it? Paying for the cute Halloween costumes, the bags of candy and Thanksgiving isn’t even here yet but many of us are already trying to figure out how to afford Christmas presents without breaking the Click for more
3 Ways to Support Your Spouse After a Critical Incident or Trauma from the Job
Just because our loved ones are in law enforcement does not mean they will experience a critical incident. But, yes, it is a possibility. And sometimes trauma occurs to the department as a whole, a community or co-worker and that experience still leaves us (or your loved one) with a wound. And whether a critical incident has occurred for you, your spouse or your family or you just want to be mentally prepared now knowing that this possibility could happen the best you can do is find tools to be resilient. Taking action now and meeting someone where they are at after a critical Click for more
5 Boundaries Every Law Enforcement Family Needs From the Job
Today's episode is brought to you Blue Monarch Co. Blue Monarch is a police owned jewelry company that offers pieces for both men and women, sterling silver and subtle thin blue line pieces. Use code PROUDPOLICEWIFE for 40% off. Work phones ringing off the hook, overtime, working later than expected, always talking about the job, having plans canceled too frequently- sound familiar? While some of these things do happen to most law enforcement families from time to time, they don't need to happen all the time. Instead, your family needs boundaries from the job. It is Click for more
Another Amazon Prime Day is here: deals for law enforcement families
I am part of the Amazon affiliate program. As an Amazon associate I will earn a small commission from qualifying purchases if you click and purchase through my links. If you are an Amazon shopper (if not, no worries, keep scrolling) then guess what? Amazon is having a SECOND Prime Day October 11th-12th to gear up for the holidays. I never suggest spending just because something "seems like a good deal" but if you are shopping for holiday gifts or specific items and they happen to be on sale, then this is a great time to buy! You do have to be a PRIME member to shop these deals. If Click for more
Police Appreciation Dates You Need to Know for Throughout the Year
There are several police appreciation dates each year dedicated to giving support to law enforcement. But there are also dates dedicated to remembering and honoring those we have lost. It can be hard to remember when those dates are and what they mean. And if you're like me, you need time to plan police appreciation ideas in advance, not the day or week of when you see mention of it on social media. So this post is designed to help you write down those dates and plan in advance. As well as, differentiate between each of the police appreciation days and police week because they are Click for more
Ways to Keep the Connection Going with your Spouse when they Work Shift Work
Today's episode is brought to you by Pictures on Gold. Pictures on Gold offers personalized police and firefighter jewelry like badge necklaces, earrings and more. Use this link to shop and use code PROUDPOLICEWIFE for $10 off. I think we can all agree that it takes WORK, actual work, to keep the connection going in our marriages especially around shift work. What was once super easy when you first dating, maybe isn’t always the same anymore because well life happens. You get immersed in your jobs, have kids, more household duties, you grow older and get used to the Click for more
Why Rest and Relaxation is Important for Police Wives
First responder spouses are some of the most strong and independent people I know. But sometimes what that means is we take on more than we can chew. And yes, I am speaking from experience. We all have those tired days or weeks so here is a reminder on why rest and relaxation for you and police wives is important. Tips to Insure Rest and Relaxation for Police Wives Be okay with pumping the breaks a bit. I am completely guilty of taking on more than I should. We have to be okay with slowing down our schedules or else nothing will change. You have the control to do that. Be Click for more
A First Responder and Military Friendly Resort with Discounts
This is a sponsored post on behalf of Hawks Cay Resort. All opinions are honest and my own. My husband and I recently had the opportunity to visit a first responder and military friendly resort, Hawks cay Resort, in Duck Key, Florida. Hawks Cay Resort is nestled in the Florida Keys surrounded by crystal clear waters, palm trees, and gorgeous views that go on for miles. We all know how much first responders and military members deserve to relax. So when traveling to Hawks Cay Resort we had plans for some serious R & R and the resort did not disappoint! For the first time in a Click for more
Financial Preparedness for First Responders and their Families
First Responder families are used to having hard conversations regarding the job. But we don't always want to talk about finances and being prepared if an emergency were to happen. Talking about emergency funds and life insurance is not exactly "fun" for most people, but it really is a necessary conversation not just for everyone in life but especially first responder families. In today's episode, Courtney from Heroes Financial Coaching is joining us to talk about financial preparedness for first responders. Courtney is a veteran wife, police wife and momma to two toddlers. She knows Click for more
Building Resiliency in First Responders
First responders are just that- the ones that respond to danger, negativity and emergencies FIRST. They are the helpers in the world and constantly being exposed to heavy topics and experiences can take a toll. One way to combat the high exposure to negativity and emergencies is by building resiliency in first responders. This not only helps them process what they see on the job, but helps decrease burnout in first responders and spillover from the job. In today's podcast episode we brought on Kristen Jauregui as our guest. Kristen is a fellow police wife, dispatcher of 23 years, Click for more
National Thank a Police Officer Day is Coming Up. Here is What You Need to Know
This post is sponsored by Arrest My Vest. All opinions are honest and my own. National Thank a Police Officer Day is recognized every year on the third Saturday of September. (Not to be confused with Police Week in May or Law Enforcement Appreciation Day in January). This year National Thank a Police Officer Day is Saturday, September 16th, 2023. While law enforcement needs our support and thanks every day of the year, this is a great day to go the extra mile and let local law enforcement know how much you appreciate them. Below are some ways you can easily say "thank you" and show Click for more
Scholarships for Children of Law Enforcement
Scholarship information found on Scholarships.com I get asked almost weekly if I know of any law enforcement scholarships. Sometimes they can be hard to find but they do exist. And you are going to want your child(ren) to apply if they meet the scholarship requirements because, as we know, higher education is NOT cheap. Getting scholarships for college these days is almost necessary, not to mention, having financial assistance can reduce your financial stress drastically. This is a comprehensive list of all the current scholarships I know of. Law Enforcement Scholarships Click for more
The BEST books for police wives, police officers & their families
Isn't there something great about having a book in your hands? Don't get me wrong, I love reading and learning from information on the web (obviously, because I have a blog), but I also love snuggling up with a good book or reading one to my kids. Even better, I love reading books that help me grow and encourage my police wife life. And from time to time, my officer will recommend a few good books, too. And if he recommends them, you know they are good! But let's not forget books for your little ones. Nothing could be better than seeing my kids' smiling faces while I read a book about Click for more
Why You Should Visit the National Law Enforcement Museum in DC
This post is sponsored by The National Law Enforcement Museum. All opinions are honest and my own. Recently my family and I drove into Washington, D.C. and toured the National Law Enforcement Officers Museum. The museum is offering FREE admission to all active and retired law enforcement officers every Saturday for the rest of 2022. Not only is the museum incredibly interactive and engaging, but they honor America's law enforcement and all that they do in such powerful and meaningful ways. Our entire family (ages ranging from 5-38 year olds) loved everything the museum had to Click for more
Awesome Amazon Prime Day deals for law enforcement families
I know some people aren't fans of Amazon so if that's you then this isn't the post for you and that's okay :) But if you do shop at Amazon, then check out the deals below. But I'll say this, don't ever buy something just because it is on sale. But if you were already looking for certain items and they are on sale- great! I have been an Amazon Prime member for y-e-a-r-s. I totally LOVE it as it saves me so much time and hassle. Once a year, Amazon has this AH-MAZING sale for almost 48 hours. This year the sale is the longest it has ever been, which is exciting! It begins at Click for more
Tips for Bedtime Routines for Solo Parents (from a Pediatric Sleep Consultant)
This is a guest post from Melissa P., a fellow police wife, solo parent and pediatric sleep consultant. Solo parenting at bedtime, during day shifts, evening shifts, overnight shifts, on call shifts…it’s all hard. Doing the bedtime routine as solo parents can feel like the hardest part of the day. It’s tough! You’ve already had an exhausting day of work outside the home, or you’ve been with the kids all day and you just need a break. I’m with you on that! But your spouse’s demanding and often unpredictable schedule isn’t going anywhere so let’s focus on what you CAN control and Click for more
Non-Toxic Ways to Keep Police Gear & Vests Smelling Clean
This post in sponsored by Arrest My Vest. All opinions are honest and my own. Raise your hand if you've even gotten a whiff of smelly vests, uniforms, boots or gear? Probably every police officer and family member and it's nearly guaranteed to happen in the heat of the summer. So how exactly can you keep all that police gear and vests smelling clean even during the summer months? Better yet, how can you keep things smelling good without adding extra chemicals to your clothing, cruiser, K9 and more? Here are some of the top ways! Easy, Non-Toxic Ways to Keep Police Click for more
FREE National Police Week Printables
Looking for some absolutely FREE Police Week Printables? I've got you covered. This printable pack includes gift tags, a children's writing sheet, and letter-size printables for your event. National Police Week is a week dedicated to honoring those we lost the previous year in the Line of Duty and is held every year in May. These printables are meant for you to use to honor and remember those we have lost, their families and departments, and show appreciation to those still on the frontlines. This year National Police Week is Sunday, May 14th to Saturday, May 20th, 2023. Click for more
10 Ways to Support Law Enforcement Families in Need from a Police Widow
Written by: April Katherman-Redgrave There is no arguing the fact that Law Enforcement families share a special bond and connection. Being a part of the “Blue Family” is unique. When one falls, we all fall. Whether it be an injury, critical incident, family struggles or God forbid a death we always band together. There are times when we are not sure how to support each other yet we are willing and ready. What better way to get advice and tips on how to help one of our own than from a family who has been there, who has experienced tragedy, loss and needed support. On Click for more
What is National Police Week and Why is it Observed?
Did you know that there are a few times throughout the year to celebrate or observe the sacrifices law enforcement officers make? There is Law Enforcement Appreciation Day (often called L.E.A.D.), Thank a Police Officer Day and National Police Week, but the meaning behind each of these days is actually very different. While the first two are meant to serve as days to thank law enforcement, National Police Week is a week dedicated to honoring those we lost the previous year in the Line of Duty. Sadly, the true meaning to National Police Week is often confused. It is much more than Click for more
How to Create and Foster Routines as a Law Enforcement Family
With shift work and inconsistent schedules it can feel as if creating routines for your family are difficult. But I am here to tell you, that you probably already have routines that you may not be aware of. And you can absolutely create routines based on what YOU CAN CONTROL. If you focus on what you can control vs what you can't (like your spouse being held over at work or his/her schedule) then you set yourself up for success. Helpful Tips for Establishing Routines as a Law Enforcement Family: Individual routines vs. family routines While it is important to have routines as an Click for more
How to Take Back Your Digital Privacy for Law Enforcement Families with Pete James
Sadly, digital privacy for law enforcement officers and their families has become not a want but a need. All over the nation we seeing police officers being harassed, doxxed or targeted. One way that this is happening is by people having access to a law enforcement officer's private information like home address, phone number, and the names of their relatives. Because of this, the need to break the connection between a police officer's name and their personal information is incredibly high. However, with the high number of people search sites available at anyone's fingertips, removing your Click for more
Children of Law Enforcement: Q&A with a Daughter of a Police Officer
Children of law enforcement families face a unique set of challenges and experiences that many other kids may not understand. Because of that, my daughter was brave enough to come on to today's episode and allow me to ask her some questions about what her experience is like. She wanted to share in hopes of helping just one fellow or future child of law enforcement. While most of her experience is a positive one, I'll be honest and say this was a harder episode for us to get through than we both realized. One question left us both in tears and out of respect to her, I did not include it Click for more
How to Deal with People Who Are Anti-Police as a Law Enforcement Spouse/Couple
Sadly, coming across people who are anti-police and sometimes even friends and family who buy into this negative police rhetoric can happen. And for many in our community, it feels like it is happening more now than ever before. For that reason, so many couples, spouses and officers feel like they can not openly share their pride and support for law enforcement. Due to the current climate and widespread media negativity, law enforcement seems to be a hot button topic and very politically driven. Many like to dehumanize and demoralize law enforcement and lump every police officer into Click for more
What to Remember When You Feel Lonely as a Police Spouse
Years ago, I did not know that the loneliness I was experiencing was very normal. In fact, most police spouses experience loneliness, on some level, at some point. If you are finding yourself lonely and missing your spouse, then I want you to know, you are not alone. I am not so physically lonely now because I have little ones & lots of animals to occupy my time and company. However, I am now in the stage of my life where I can feel emotionally lonely if I do not allow myself to be intentional and make time for my husband and I to be together. Keeping your time protected, as a Click for more