The Journal.
Welcome to the space where Defence life, business, and self-kindness collide – sometimes gracefully, sometimes more like a bin fire. Expect real stories, practical tips, and the occasional nudge to take care of yourself in the middle of it all.
Recent Posts
Managing your mental health during deployments and long separations
Deployments and long separations aren’t just about counting down days. They shift the rhythm of everyday life, test your patience, and can leave your mental health hanging by a thread. You’re suddenly both the anchor and the sail, carrying everything at home while waiting for their safe return. Managing your mental health through this season isn’t about being endlessly strong; it’s about building supports, lowering the pressure on yourself, and staying connected in ways that matter.
How to Save Money on One Income (and Reduce the Stress)
Living on one income doesn’t have to mean constant stress. Here are practical, low-pressure ways to reduce expenses and stretch your budget without burning out.
Why Minimalism Just Makes Sense for Military Families
Defence life means moving often, adjusting constantly, and carrying a lot. Here’s how minimalism can reduce stress, save money, and help you feel grounded, no matter where you’re posted.
more this way
Saving Money on One Income: 25 “Swap, Don’t Stop” Ideas
Living on one income in 2025 feels like a juggling act. Groceries, fuel, and bills keep climbing, but cutting everything fun isn’t the answer. That’s why I’m leaning into a “swap, don’t stop” approach. Instead of giving things up completely, I’ve been swapping for cheaper, simpler, or smarter versions that still give us a sense of joy. From switching Friday night takeout to homemade pizza nights, to finding free family activities instead of pricey outings, these changes make saving money less about sacrifice and more about living differently. Here are 25 swaps that have helped us keep costs down without feeling like life has ground to a halt.
Managing your mental health during deployments and long separations
Deployments and long separations aren’t just about counting down days. They shift the rhythm of everyday life, test your patience, and can leave your mental health hanging by a thread. You’re suddenly both the anchor and the sail, carrying everything at home while waiting for their safe return. Managing your mental health through this season isn’t about being endlessly strong; it’s about building supports, lowering the pressure on yourself, and staying connected in ways that matter.
Defence Life—Is It All It’s Cracked Up to Be?
Defence life is often romanticised, but the reality is far more complicated. Behind the pride and resilience is the loneliness of long separations, the exhaustion of constant moves, and the struggle to find a real sense of belonging. Not every friendship will last, not every base will feel like home, and not every day will be filled with unwavering strength. The key isn’t just surviving this life – it’s finding ways to make it work for you.
Photo-A-Day Challenge – August
This month’s Self-Care Snapshots is all about noticing the little things. No pressure, no deep themes – just a gentle nudge to pause, look around, and snap a moment from your day.
What I Wish I Knew Before My Partner Enlisted
Military life is full of surprises. Here’s what I wish I’d known before my partner enlisted in the ADF, plus tips for surviving (and even thriving) through the changes.
How to Save Money on One Income (and Reduce the Stress)
Living on one income doesn’t have to mean constant stress. Here are practical, low-pressure ways to reduce expenses and stretch your budget without burning out.
Photo-A-Day Challenge – July
This month’s Self-Care Snapshots is all about noticing the little things. No pressure, no deep themes – just a gentle nudge to pause, look around, and snap a moment from your day.
What To Expect When They’re Enlisting..
Your partner’s joining the ADF.. now what? Here’s what to expect as a Defence partner during enlistment and training, from communication blackouts to emotional curveballs.
The Power of Connection (Especially When You’re the New One, Again)
Connection isn’t always easy to build in Defence life, but it matters. Here’s why community connection is so important for wellbeing, and what it can look like even when you’re new, shy, or starting over.
Losing Yourself in Parenthood (and Finding the Way Back)
Parenthood can change everything, including your sense of self. Here’s an honest reflection on identity loss in motherhood, and how to reconnect with the ‘you’ that still exists underneath it all.
Why Minimalism Just Makes Sense for Military Families
Defence life means moving often, adjusting constantly, and carrying a lot. Here’s how minimalism can reduce stress, save money, and help you feel grounded, no matter where you’re posted.
30 Simple Ways to Recharge as a Defence Spouse (Without Overcomplicating It)
Military life is full on, and as Defence spouses, we carry a lot. Here are 30 real, doable self-care ideas to help you recharge, reconnect, and protect your energy.
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