[StayAt HomeMother]

One thing not on the list which would seem to be needed is child care. I know a lot of military spouses who are really going to be hurting during deployment because they're in college classes or work nights. Many times, you just don't know anyone well enough to ask, or you live far away from close friends and family.

The simple things can mean a lot. When my spouse deployed to Desert Storm, leaving me with three under ten, it would have been great if a neighbor had just watched the kids so I could go grocery shopping wihtout any kids in the cart.

Sundays we all missed Daddy. Sunday School offered an hour of adult conversation in addition to food for the soul.

During Desert Storm, we received an automatic extension on our tax returns. Anyone know if this is true this year as well?

[HiJinx]

I went to the IRS.GOV web site and searched on 'Military Extension.' I found this article, excerpted below:

International Taxpayer - Automatic 2 Month Extension

You may be allowed an automatic 2-month extension to file your return and pay any federal income tax that is due. You will be allowed the extension if you are a U.S. citizen or resident and on the regular due date of your return:

You are living outside of the United States and Puerto Rico and your main place of business or post of duty is outside the United States and Puerto Rico, or
You are in military or naval service on duty outside the United States and Puerto Rico

If you use a calendar year, the regular due date of your return is April 15.

Service In A Combat Zone

If you served in a combat zone or qualified hazardous duty area, see Extension of deadline in Publication 3, Armed Forces' Tax Guide.

I would strongly recommend you request IRS Pub 3, and look further around their web site. This was just an excerpt.