Local business owner CJ Wirsching-Neuser is back home after her third tour overseas with the U.S. Army, and 29 years of total service.

"I am back and enjoying a real bed and indoor plumbing," Wirsching-Neuser said in an e-mail to Patch, "not to mention being back with Jim and our 4-legged kids Rocky and Sassy, and Sarge — our African Grey Parrot."

Wirsching-Neuser is co-owner of Vines to Cellar in Port Washington; her husband, Jim, had been running the show since she was deployed. Jim retired from the military after serving 22 years, meaning together the two have served just more than 50 years.

The couple opened Vines to Cellar in Port in 2008, but they live just north of the city, in Belgium. CJ said her favorite thing about Port is the lake, and the small-town feel mixed with its proximity to a big city.

"I often say that we live in Port and sleep in Belgium," CJ said. "I am from Milwaukee originally and Jim is from Manitowoc, and we folded the map in half and ended up in Belgium."

Looking back, CJ said she is most proud of, "still being able to serve in the Military, and the success of our business. Many of our friends and family thought we were a bit crazy but have done a 180 degree turnaround now that they see the big picture."

The big picture for CJ also includes giving back as much as possible.

"I think all citizens should serve their country in one way or another," CJ said. "There are so many things that need to be done here in our own country that if everyone did just a little bit we could accomplish so much. Assist an elderly neighbor with yard work, snow blow someone's drive, volunteer as a tutor, assist at the library, and remember those that are risking the most to defend your freedoms. Send a post card, e-mail, local news clipping or a bake an extra batch of cookies for a deployed soldier.

"I can tell you first hand how much the smallest things mean when you are so far from home."