Nothing compares to the love between a parent and child, something we get to celebrate every summer during Mother’s Day and Father’s Day. For military parents, celebrating these holidays with their children is extra special, since they know that in future years deployments or training may keep them apart during these special days.

Our military community in Monterey knows this and wants to help military parents make memories with their kids during this season. Join the Presidio of Monterey for A Knight to Remember Mother/Son Dance on May 12th at the General Stilwell Ballroom in the Fort Ord Housing complex. The Naval Postgraduate School is hosting a Daddy/Daughter Dance on May 18th in the Barbara McNitt Ballroom at the NPS Campus. 

Formal attire is recommended for both events and is the perfect opportunity to dress up in your finest to show the child in your life a great time. For a really fun touch, pick up a corsage or boutonniere. Pick your date up and open the car door for them. At the end of a magical night, make sure to walk them to the door. 

Some military moms and dads in our community are away from their families during Mother’s Day or Father’s Day, while others are parenting alone while their spouse is away for deployment or training. Whether you are missing time with your kids or needing a break from all the parenting responsibilities, these holidays can still be a fun and memorable time.

A brunch out with friends is the perfect way to celebrate while your spouse is away. You can also take yourself out on a date, to the spa or out for a cup of coffee. Mother’s Day is the perfect time to indulge in some relaxing mom time. Mother’s Day and Father’s Day can be challenging for deployed parents. Photos, handmade gifts, and letters from home can help make that separation a little bit easier. To all the deployed moms and dads—we see you and are proud of you.

For tickets to the Mother/Son Dance, stop by Army Community and Youth Services at the Stilwell Center, the Porter Youth Center, or the POM Chapel. For tickets to the Daddy/Daughter Dance, drop by the Tickets & Travel Office on the first floor of the historic Hotel Del Monte.

Happy Mother’s Day from this military mama!

Katie Begley is a Navy veteran and military spouse. Katie is an advertising sales executive for Monterey Bay Parent Magazine. She is the mother of a one-year-old and five-month-old sons.