"Our goal is to provide support to individuals and families who have a spouse deployed. However, our programs are open to all military spouses, regardless of rank, branch or deployments," said Erica Watts, outreach coordinator for Lewis-McChord Communities. "We also encourage spouses to bring their family and friends to these events."

The events, held monthly on-base and at no cost to participants, range from craft instruction to coffee socials, potluck dinners to wine tasting, card games to movie nights, and even the occasional makeover night.

The event, scheduled for Feb. 23 from 6-9 p.m., will be a Scrapbooking Potluck, held at the Discovery Village Community Center located on JBLM-Main. Refreshments will be provided but participants are welcome to bring along any entrée, side dish or dessert to share.  If you register early enough a free scrapbooking kit will be included.  Though childcare is not provided on-site, the events are routinely held during hours that the CYS free childcare is available. Mature children (usually over the age of 12) who are able to participate are welcome.

Next month on March 16, from 6-9 p.m., spouses are invited to learn the uniquely ‘green' craft of paper bead making. Attendees should bring old magazines, newspapers, wrapping paper or even junk mail; the lesson will cover how to use those materials to make the beads as well as how to turn them into a bracelet. Additional materials will be provided at no cost while supplies last. The event will be held at the Eagleview Community Center on JBLM North and will also feature a potluck dinner.

To RSVP for either event, call or email Watts at (253) 912.3478 or ewatt@eqrworld.com.