Shelia - so sorry to hear that your DS and DIL are going through such a difficult time. Those pets are very important in our lives, but I think especially for those in the military - they are company for the ones left behind, and we have all seen those videos of dogs greeting their loved one who returns from a deployment. I hope being together will help them through the process. Thinking of you and them....
Here's the Space Shuttle as it flew over City Hall here in Sacramento. It was a thrill for me to see it as my mother worked on the Shuttle when she worked for Aerojet years ago.
Kathy....I only had to wait 15 minutes. The news service here in town had posted the time of the fly over. I only had to walk across the street from my office and go to the top of the parking garage to get the pictues.
When you looked around all of the buildings in our area that had a viewing area's were packed full of people wanting to see the shuttle.
It was great to see people out for such a wonderful event.
Kathy B.......our DS is in the Gulf as well....must be on the same boat.....we sense the same thing from him......he loves his job and the squadron so that helps.....you're right about the stress.....it's intense there now.....hope things calm down.....not terribly optimistic about that anytime soon....
I had to share the following with everyone. My best friend's daughter is married to an Army 1st Sargeant who is scheduled to leave for Afganistan in the next month. Their son is 7 years old and is having a very hard time with this deployment. The base is trying to help the families with the deployment and meetings on what to expect and telling them that the age that little Jordan is at is the most difficult age for dealing with deployment.
The following is a story that was suggested to be personalized for the kids for their very own. I believe that Carrie did a very good job with Jordan's story.
I grow up with bugle calls; falling asleep to the sound of artillery and the knowledge that home is where the heart is and the family. Relocating is my way of life. In seven years I have called 5 different states home. I have found security and happiness in apartments, duplexes, on post housing and even guest housing. In fact my parents brought me home from the hospital for the very first time to the Turner Guest House in Fort Campbell KY. Due to the fact that on day seven I was relocating to Fort Benning, GA. Some might wonder about my roots. My roots are colorful, diverse and strong and I sink them quickly, trying to absorb all an area has to offer. Just as there is joy in meeting, there is always pain in goodbye and although practice makes perfect, there is no way to perfect "Good-bye." Farewells are never easy and friendships are formed in hours and kept for decades. I will never grow up with someone, but I will mature with many, be it inevitable that paths part, but there is always constant hope that we will meet again. But through it all, comes experience, strength and the ability to face tomorrow with anticipation. They call it resilience No matter where I go though, I’m surrounded by values like: Loyalty, Duty, Respect, Selfless Service, Honor, Integrity and Personal Courage. Those values can be found written everywhere including the halls of my school. I still say the Pledge of Allegiance and of course sing the Army Song, every morning at school. I feel fortunate to live in a society of tradition drawing from the past to enhance the present. Love of country, respect and pride fill me, when I stand for the National Anthem. I also stand to honor all soldiers, especially to the man whose life created mine -- my Dad. Because of him I share in the rich heritage of Army life. I am an Army Brat!
Great photo, Nancy!
@ Paymaster - Your granddaughter is on the same track as mine. K-2nd grade = two schools per year. On track for the same this year. These little ones are troopers.
Susie - CONGRATS!! That is exciting news! The tailhook part. My DS wanted Meridian, too, to be "close" to his fiance in Pensacola. It's an interesting little town, but it did have a Wal-mart. :-) My "big news" is that DS finished SERE
Kabar and Suzie, Congratulations!! Such exciting news! What happens now? Are they taking some leave time or do they have to head off to the next locale?
Thanks for the great photo Navywife...very cool. So glad to hear all the good news about selections and finishing SERE. My DS is glad to be finally classed up for API. Will finish in 3 weeks since he already did the swimming part. He and his sweet wife are settled in Milton and are really enjoying their new life together!
KathyB- they are off base in a duplex. He will do Primary at Milton, so they opted to live between P'cola and Milton rather than move after API. My DIL found a job on base, which she really likes.
Navy wife, you have my support and good thoughts. It will be next year sometime when I will be where you are and I can't imagine. Isn't Skype wonderful. Expecting a call from my DS this evening.
NW&M, thoughts and prayers are with you. I've got a ways to go and can only imagine...my heart aches for all of you with your LOs so far from home, especially with no communications!
NW & M, Never easier and especially from a different perspective each time. Shoot, I would sob every Friday (I don't know why on Fridays) when my DS first went off to Pensacola. For now, it's better...sometimes my arms just want to hug him so much though. Hang in there...the time is already ticking toward your LO's return!
My DS has not deployed yet, and my future SIL (6 weeks from now) is coming home from his Army deployment in S. Korea in 3 weeks.... but maybe to the mideast again next summer. My DS may be out there at the same time. I hope I can be strong, and I pray for those of you who are waiting for sons and daughters to come home. This is just not easy..... Thinking of you!!!
Thanks Nancy! My son is actually a WSO on the F/A-18 Superhornet out of Oceana. Looking at deployment this year and figured I'd advice and support. I look forward to learning the ropes from ya'll.
Thinking of you and your DS, James!! It's an amazing accomplishment to land that high powered jet on those "little" flight decks!! Hoping all goes well for him!
Thanks flyboymom. Son out on workup right now, flying alot. I have been lucky enough to get 3 emails in first week when I know some moms haven't even heard yet from their son/daughter. He won't let me send him anything since it's only for a month, but if ya'll have any advice on carrier workups I'd appreciate it. I guess this will be a good trial run for me too!
Suzie, that sounds great! Where was the golf course? Alex came home this weekend and we had such a great time. He's doing well...on to instrument flying now. I love hearing him talk about his work.
James, it took 2 trips out to the boat for our DS to qualify in the T-45. It was a good experience for him, and gave him more experience and quals before moving on to the F-18. Now he is on the USS Washington and every landing is a carrier landing!
Nancy is right, it goes very quickly now. Our DS left Lemore in less than a week to meet up with the squadron. We haven't seen him since last Christmas!!
When it comes to making rank, it just depends where they are stationed as to being able to participate. Ensign to LTjg is an automatic rank and isn't a big deal. When my DH made LCDR I was able to put his new boards on and there was a ceremony. Then there is the wetting down, a party they throw for their friends. It's been awhile but I think they are supposed to spend the difference they will make per month at the new rank on their party. Anybody correct me if I am wrong. I'm pretty sure we spent more than the difference on DH's wetting down!!
I agree with the Navy wives that now have sons deployed. It is very different sending your DS off compared to DH. True when DH went to Desert Storm I was home with 3 kids under the age of 5 for a year and I stayed very busy! We raised our sons and nurtured them for years, we have a very different bond with them. It's very hard to explain, but I get all mushy inside when I think about my avaitor!!
James, I'm so glad that your DS qualified this time out. DS said that it was a very successful trip to the boat. I was just glad you mentioned CQs as I was able to figure out where my DS was all weekend.
What platform did he request - E or F. Good luck on his selection.
Congrats, James! Every time they get over another hump, it's one less worry.
I've been traveling a lot, so haven't written, but I enjoy reading about all your terrific children on my phone. It keeps me level when, like now, my DS is on extended ship time. Thanks, everyone!
Nancy W, glad to hear the packing is done. It took 2 1/2 months for all my son's stuff to make it over to Japan last year, but the Navy does have loaner furniture available in the meantime. My son didn't even know that, so was glad when I picked up that tip from another mom who had two sons deployed there.
Flyboymom, how exciting that he is home. Thanks a
So for the tip on dress for winging. Although it won't be until February, always good to know ahead of time.
Ladies, will you please say some prayers for my brother, Jim. He is in a very difficult relationship and a stressful job. He needs all the positive thoughts we can send him.
I second Nancy W's welcome and saying that N4M is great. My son is in advanced jet in Kingsville and have learned so much from all of these wonderful parents.
Dawn
Sep 19, 2012
Paymaster
Sheila....Pets are such a special part of the family. I am sorry to hear of the loss of the beloved dog.
Sep 19, 2012
Kathy
Shelia - so sorry to hear that your DS and DIL are going through such a difficult time. Those pets are very important in our lives, but I think especially for those in the military - they are company for the ones left behind, and we have all seen those videos of dogs greeting their loved one who returns from a deployment. I hope being together will help them through the process. Thinking of you and them....
Sep 20, 2012
Paymaster
Here's the Space Shuttle as it flew over City Hall here in Sacramento. It was a thrill for me to see it as my mother worked on the Shuttle when she worked for Aerojet years ago.
Sep 21, 2012
Barb
So cool!! That is amazing! Thanks for sharing...
Sep 21, 2012
Paymaster
Kathy....I only had to wait 15 minutes. The news service here in town had posted the time of the fly over. I only had to walk across the street from my office and go to the top of the parking garage to get the pictues.
When you looked around all of the buildings in our area that had a viewing area's were packed full of people wanting to see the shuttle.
It was great to see people out for such a wonderful event.
Sep 22, 2012
lou2949
Sep 22, 2012
JudyM
Chris, will pray for your SIL and all the other military.
Pedsdoc, it is scary not knowing what your DS will be doing in a couple of months. It does go fast. And, congrats to your daughter. Lucky you!
Suzie, great news about the Commodores. My DS made it coming out of primary. That takes lots of hard work and determination.
Sep 24, 2012
AH
I had to share the following with everyone. My best friend's daughter is married to an Army 1st Sargeant who is scheduled to leave for Afganistan in the next month. Their son is 7 years old and is having a very hard time with this deployment. The base is trying to help the families with the deployment and meetings on what to expect and telling them that the age that little Jordan is at is the most difficult age for dealing with deployment.
The following is a story that was suggested to be personalized for the kids for their very own. I believe that Carrie did a very good job with Jordan's story.
I grow up with bugle calls; falling asleep to the sound of artillery and the knowledge that home is where the heart is and the family. Relocating is my way of life. In seven years I have called 5 different states home. I have found security and happiness in apartments, duplexes, on post housing and even guest housing. In fact my parents brought me home from the hospital for the very first time to the Turner Guest House in Fort Campbell KY. Due to the fact that on day seven I was relocating to Fort Benning, GA. Some might wonder about my roots. My roots are colorful, diverse and strong and I sink them quickly, trying to absorb all an area has to offer. Just as there is joy in meeting, there is always pain in goodbye and although practice makes perfect, there is no way to perfect "Good-bye." Farewells are never easy and friendships are formed in hours and kept for decades. I will never grow up with someone, but I will mature with many, be it inevitable that paths part, but there is always constant hope that we will meet again. But through it all, comes experience, strength and the ability to face tomorrow with anticipation. They call it resilience No matter where I go though, I’m surrounded by values like: Loyalty, Duty, Respect, Selfless Service, Honor, Integrity and Personal Courage. Those values can be found written everywhere including the halls of my school. I still say the Pledge of Allegiance and of course sing the Army Song, every morning at school. I feel fortunate to live in a society of tradition drawing from the past to enhance the present. Love of country, respect and pride fill me, when I stand for the National Anthem. I also stand to honor all soldiers, especially to the man whose life created mine -- my Dad. Because of him I share in the rich heritage of Army life. I am an Army Brat!
Sep 25, 2012
Paymaster
Ah....This could be my oldest granddaughter. She just turrned 8 and started 2nd grade and this is her 4th school to date.
These children have to be so strong just like their parents in the Service to our country.
Sep 25, 2012
Helomom
@ Paymaster - Your granddaughter is on the same track as mine. K-2nd grade = two schools per year. On track for the same this year. These little ones are troopers.
Sep 26, 2012
Barb
Beautiful Moms and beautiful scenery!
Sep 26, 2012
Kathy
Love the photo.... proud Moms!!!
Sep 26, 2012
Kathy
Susie - CONGRATS!! That is exciting news! The tailhook part. My DS wanted Meridian, too, to be "close" to his fiance in Pensacola. It's an interesting little town, but it did have a Wal-mart. :-) My "big news" is that DS finished SERE
Sep 27, 2012
Kabar
It's official...I'm a helicopter mom!
Sep 27, 2012
Paymaster
Kabar.....Welcome to the helicopter community.
Sep 28, 2012
Helomom
Sep 28, 2012
Barb
Kabar and Suzie, Congratulations!! Such exciting news! What happens now? Are they taking some leave time or do they have to head off to the next locale?
Sep 28, 2012
CheriH
Thanks for the great photo Navywife...very cool. So glad to hear all the good news about selections and finishing SERE. My DS is glad to be finally classed up for API. Will finish in 3 weeks since he already did the swimming part. He and his sweet wife are settled in Milton and are really enjoying their new life together!
Sep 28, 2012
CheriH
KathyB- they are off base in a duplex. He will do Primary at Milton, so they opted to live between P'cola and Milton rather than move after API. My DIL found a job on base, which she really likes.
Sep 29, 2012
CheriH
Congrats to her KathyB...and wonderful for you too!
Sep 30, 2012
JudyM
Navy wife, you have my support and good thoughts. It will be next year sometime when I will be where you are and I can't imagine. Isn't Skype wonderful. Expecting a call from my DS this evening.
KathyB great news.
Sep 30, 2012
Helomom
Oct 1, 2012
Barb
NW&M, thoughts and prayers are with you. I've got a ways to go and can only imagine...my heart aches for all of you with your LOs so far from home, especially with no communications!
Oct 1, 2012
Barb
NW & M, Never easier and especially from a different perspective each time. Shoot, I would sob every Friday (I don't know why on Fridays) when my DS first went off to Pensacola. For now, it's better...sometimes my arms just want to hug him so much though. Hang in there...the time is already ticking toward your LO's return!
Oct 2, 2012
Kathy
My DS has not deployed yet, and my future SIL (6 weeks from now) is coming home from his Army deployment in S. Korea in 3 weeks.... but maybe to the mideast again next summer. My DS may be out there at the same time. I hope I can be strong, and I pray for those of you who are waiting for sons and daughters to come home. This is just not easy..... Thinking of you!!!
Oct 2, 2012
txranchmom
Oct 2, 2012
CheriH
Chris, Beautiful wedding pics. Thanks for sharing. She looks so gorgeous and happy!
Oct 4, 2012
Helomom
Oct 5, 2012
Kathy
Thinking of you and your DS, James!! It's an amazing accomplishment to land that high powered jet on those "little" flight decks!! Hoping all goes well for him!
Oct 5, 2012
Paymaster
James....Fair wind and following seas to your son.
Oct 5, 2012
JudyM
James, good thoughts. My DS will be doing this in 6 weeks or so.
Oct 6, 2012
Paymaster
Navy wife....So true!
Oct 6, 2012
txranchmom
Thanks flyboymom. Son out on workup right now, flying alot. I have been lucky enough to get 3 emails in first week when I know some moms haven't even heard yet from their son/daughter. He won't let me send him anything since it's only for a month, but if ya'll have any advice on carrier workups I'd appreciate it. I guess this will be a good trial run for me too!
Oct 7, 2012
Paymaster
James...Congrats!
Oct 9, 2012
Barb
James, very exciting news! Congratulations!
Suzie, that sounds great! Where was the golf course? Alex came home this weekend and we had such a great time. He's doing well...on to instrument flying now. I love hearing him talk about his work.
Have a great day everyone!
Oct 9, 2012
Helomom
Oct 9, 2012
TennMom
James, it took 2 trips out to the boat for our DS to qualify in the T-45. It was a good experience for him, and gave him more experience and quals before moving on to the F-18. Now he is on the USS Washington and every landing is a carrier landing!
Nancy is right, it goes very quickly now. Our DS left Lemore in less than a week to meet up with the squadron. We haven't seen him since last Christmas!!
When it comes to making rank, it just depends where they are stationed as to being able to participate. Ensign to LTjg is an automatic rank and isn't a big deal. When my DH made LCDR I was able to put his new boards on and there was a ceremony. Then there is the wetting down, a party they throw for their friends. It's been awhile but I think they are supposed to spend the difference they will make per month at the new rank on their party. Anybody correct me if I am wrong. I'm pretty sure we spent more than the difference on DH's wetting down!!
I agree with the Navy wives that now have sons deployed. It is very different sending your DS off compared to DH. True when DH went to Desert Storm I was home with 3 kids under the age of 5 for a year and I stayed very busy! We raised our sons and nurtured them for years, we have a very different bond with them. It's very hard to explain, but I get all mushy inside when I think about my avaitor!!
Oct 9, 2012
AH
James, I'm so glad that your DS qualified this time out. DS said that it was a very successful trip to the boat. I was just glad you mentioned CQs as I was able to figure out where my DS was all weekend.
What platform did he request - E or F. Good luck on his selection.
Oct 9, 2012
Marianne
Congrats, James! Every time they get over another hump, it's one less worry.
I've been traveling a lot, so haven't written, but I enjoy reading about all your terrific children on my phone. It keeps me level when, like now, my DS is on extended ship time. Thanks, everyone!
Nancy W, glad to hear the packing is done. It took 2 1/2 months for all my son's stuff to make it over to Japan last year, but the Navy does have loaner furniture available in the meantime. My son didn't even know that, so was glad when I picked up that tip from another mom who had two sons deployed there.
I pray every day for all our children.
Oct 9, 2012
Kathy
CONGRATS to your DS, James! That is such a relief for him and for you!! Keep us posted on his next move! My DS is staying in Lemoore.
Oct 9, 2012
JudyM
Just arrived in Tampa to help my brother. I forgot what humidity was about.
Oct 9, 2012
JudyM
Oct 10, 2012
JudyM
So for the tip on dress for winging. Although it won't be until February, always good to know ahead of time.
Oct 13, 2012
JudyM
Oct 13, 2012
Barb
Flyboymom, that is awesome!
I second your prayers for all...
Oct 15, 2012
CheriH
Love the cell phone case! What a perfect gift!!!
Oct 16, 2012
JudyM
Oct 16, 2012
Paymaster
Welcome Jamesmum!
Oct 19, 2012
JudyM
I second Nancy W's welcome and saying that N4M is great. My son is in advanced jet in Kingsville and have learned so much from all of these wonderful parents.
Oct 19, 2012