What to expect at BootCamp?

[MySonMyWorld]

My son left for the Navy on July 10, 2011.  He's my only son and I'm dealing with many emotions right now.  I'm trying to find out if anyone has any information to offer that would ease all the worries I feel.

 

 

[MNSunshine]

My son liked his letters typed in larger print.  I used 14 pt. type.  They get mail last thing.  When lights go out, they can still read larger type in the red "night light."

[1DYBUGs Mom/Dana - S9/D280]

Donna I'm going to friend you if that is ok, because I think like I said I'm pretty sure we are going to be at PIR together.  lol

[DonnaB (ship 11, div 282)]

Great, I like that thank you

[momof2]

"The Box" is a tough day.  Be prepared.  I had read on other posts about the items in the box.  The pants legs of his jeans were rolled up and I wondered why.  I found out that they have to roll up their jeans to get their feet meaured and don't have time to roll them down before the change.  I think the day they pack those boxes is a really tough/long day for them.  Don't expect a note or letter unless your SR sneaks one in there.  I looked in every pocket and nook and cranny.  No note.  :(  But you will get a note on the last page of the form letter from your SR.  It has been 8 weeks and I still carry every letter with me.  I love to re-read them. 

[MySonMyWorld]

Oh dear.  I have been an emotional wreck since he left.  The house is so empty without him and I can't sit still without thinking what is going on with him.  I guess that the emotional rollercoaster will continue, especially when we receive "The Box".  Thank you so much for writing me.

[MNSunshine]

I know many say the box is "tough," but for me it was a relief.  My son was planning to send it to his dad, but instead sent it to me.  For whatever reason, I found it a comfort.  Even though we received a short call, for me, it was an affirmation he was really there and was right where he was supposed to be in the process.  The next day, I received his form letter ... from that point, I seemed to settle into a pattern of letter writing and know that no news is good news.  And believe me, it is!  Those that received news, received bad news.  Remind yourself EVERY day that no news is good news.

[momof2]

I too found comfort in knowing that this is what he wanted.  I had never seen him look so excited about anything in his life.  He had tried college and it just wasn't for him.  This is where he was meant to be.  He is still excited about his future.  Keep in mind that it will be tough, but they are strong and will be fine.  They learn to rely on others in the division and learn teamwork.  Pray for him every day.  I made a point to pray when I woke up that he would stay strong, stay focused and keep his faith.  Once you get the first letter, you will see that they are doing fine and you will be relieved.  You will finally get to breathe.  :)  Hang in there.  It gets better.  I miss my son everyday, but am so happy that he has found his place in life. 

[caylex 9/279]

My son left 5 days before yours. I still have bad/sad moments every day and he is on my mind constantly. I think one of the things that has been the most comforting is knowing that these emotions are normal.  It is the fear of the unknown and lack of communication that is so hard for us (and them).  It is so nice to know that we have a wonderful community like this to rely on, some common ground.  Hang in there  {{HUGS}}

[ktzmom02]

My son left on July 5th and believe me I think I cried (and hid it) the entire week before and an entire week after he left. I never know how hard this was going to be on me. i still miss him like crazy but cannot wait in four weeks we will see his face at graduation! He graduates September 1st!  Good Luck to you and believe me you are not alone!