Norma "Normington" Smihal, a service-disabled veteran of both the Army National Guard and Coast Guard, served her country with dedication for over 20 years, including deployments to Afghanistan and Kosovo. Now this retired female servicemember is finding new purpose and community through her passion for wine.

Smihal is the creator and host of "Just the Sip: Tongamic Wine Exploration & Adventure with Norma," a vodcast dedicated to making wine education accessible and enjoyable. Her journey from combat boots to wine bottles reflects her resilience, her commitment to lifelong learning and her desire to continue serving others.

"I've always loved wine," says Smihal. "But I never considered it a career path until after I retired. I realized there was a need for approachable wine education, especially for those who might feel intimidated by the complexities of the wine world."

With "Just the Sip," Smihal breaks down those barriers, offering a welcoming space for both novice and experienced wine enthusiasts. Her episodes cover a range of topics, from terroir and regional wine explorations to food pairings.

This holiday season, Smihal is sharing her expertise with a special episode titled "JTS Special: Uncork the Perfect Holiday Gifts." She guides viewers through a curated selection of unique and thoughtful gifts perfect for sharing with loved ones.

"As a veteran, I understand the importance of camaraderie and connection," says Smihal. "This episode is a way to share my love of wine with fellow veterans and offer some holiday cheer."

Smihal's unique perspective as a female combat veteran adds a special touch to her approach, fostering a sense of understanding and connection among her viewers.

Tune in to "Just the Sip" on YouTube and Spotify to discover unique gift ideas, learn about wine and raise a glass with a fellow veteran this holiday season.

Website: https://justthesipofwine.com