Fabulous Army Life

Coffee Group members stuff "Boo" bags with candy, treats, and a letter of invitation from the Coffee Group. Once all the bags were filled, each person took several bags to secretly deliver to those members who were not present.

The Army has a long-standing tradition of socializing to build comraderie within individual units.  One way of doing this is hosting unit "Coffees."  The Coffee Group has traditionally been comprised of the spouses of officers and senior enlisted Soldiers.  As quoted in “The Army Wife Handbook,” Alma Powell says, “As wives, if we do not know one another, how will we be able to support one another, and stand together in times of need?” The typical modern Coffee now consists of spouses ( not just wives anymore!) and rarely involves sitting around and drinking the caffeinated beverage; instead, it is about developing friendships among peers and forming a support group.  Coffees can be held in a home, at a restaurant, or at an outside venue.  Typically, the members of the Coffee Group take turns hosting the events, which are held monthly. In our current unit, we have a wonderful group.  I have been so excited to meet and get to know all...

Several years ago, I was "boo'ed" for the first time.  Not in a "Boo! Hiss!" kind of way, but in a fun, neighborly receive-fun-gifts kind of way.  At my front door, I found a Halloween bag full of candy and goodies along with a poem that encouraged me to "boo" another neighbor and a "I've Been Boo'ed" sign to post on my door.  Since that time, we've made this an annual tradition, starting about the first day of October.  There are several variations on the same theme when it comes to the poem included.  This year, I found a new poem that I like and plan to use ... This treat is for you, we hope you enjoy. The idea is simple, one we hope you employ. Simply pass a "BOO" along to two other neighbors, Along with any kind of Halloween favors. If we all do our part, and spread the good cheer, By Halloween night, it will be very clear, We're a friendly bunch; we like to share fun … So please do your part t...