Well moms I'm certainly glad to see February and have January in the rearview mirror. Second week of January I got a text from my DIL saying she had to make a trip to the ER at Balboa with a ruptured ovarian cyst. She had a followup visit scheduled with her OB/GYN the next week as they "had seen something of concern" in her ultrasound. Of course as DS is out on the Vinson I said give us a holler if you need anything. The following Tuesday she wrote back and said her OB/GYN was referring her to an oncologist on Thursday for more tests. Thursday night she called and said they had scheduled her for surgery on Monday morning. There was reason to believe she had ovarian cancer but needed to do a "staging surgery" to biopsy and confirm. Needless to say DH and I were immediately online to get a flight to SD. She also said the Dr. was requesting the presence of her husband in case decisions needed to be made. Ummm... Ok. We got there Sunday morning and, I have know idea how, but DS arrived Sunday night at 10 PM in San Diego. She was in surgery from 7:00 AM until almost 1:00 PM. NO CANCER! Stage IV endometriosis. They did a hysterectomy leaving only a ovary and removed as much of the endometriosis as they could. She had lesions on her muscles, ligaments, liver, kidneys, everywhere. They were at the hospital overnight and home on Tuesday. We took care of the 11 year old, the 7 year old. Hardest part was Monday night when the eldest came to us and asked what was really going on. She said her mom told her she needed to go to the hospital for surgery and we were coming but why was her dad home. She said, "I've been a Navy kid all my life and dads don't come home from the boat during cruise." So we sat her down and said the doctors thought your mom was really sick and might need your dad. Fortunately it wasn't as bad as they thought so your dad will head back as soon as we could get things squared away for your mom. We stayed the week and DS was able to stay the next week. The wives rallied around, from the Commodore's wife on down (she made a great enchilada casserole). This is the part of the Navy I truly appreciate. The way the families take care of each other is just awe inspiring. DS is back on the boat, DIL is recovering. Side note, although he was not physically on the boat he was in touch with the squadron making day to day decisions the entire time. Communication in 2015...you can work 24/7 wherever you are. So moms, that was our January.
Helomom, oh my gosh! Hugs and more hugs for all of you! So glad to hear that all went as well as could be hoped for and that all of you were able to be there to support.
The commander of Helicopter Sea Combat Wing Pacific Fleet came by while we were at the house. He said he was using the opportunity to debrief DS regarding the deployment and offer Admin support. When they started talking I asked if we should leave but he said it wasn't necessary. Boy was he right, they rattled off so many acronyms and talked so fast we just had to chuckle. It was an interesting visit, we rarely see DS in work mode.
Suzie...I've been thinking about you and praying for you and your DS and his CQs this week. Hope you've heard successful results by now! I remember how stressed I was when my DS did his in the T45. Can't imagine what it will be like when he gets to the F18.
Helomom...hope your DIL is recovered and doing great. So thankful it wasn't cancer.
NavymomBarb...don't know if anyone has answered your question yet. But what your DD is experiencing is totally normal. And it's totally normal for her to be frustrated! It seems that they schedule the students who are the farthest along in the training first and the newer students last. So, it does get better as she goes along. It usually speeds up a bunch at the end. And if her Onwing is gone, then she probably is just sitting there til he gets back. They do give them a refresher flight if it's been too long since they have flown. Hang in there...it is tough listening to them when they are frustrated. But just wait...they days when they've had a fantastic flight are pure joy to listen to.
Jamielss...congrats on the successful CQs!
JudyM...great pic! When I see those reunions is when the sacrifices made become very real.
Welcome to our new moms! We are glad you have joined our special group. Let us hear your thoughts, questions, joys and frustrations. We can answer, empathize and rejoice with you.
Paymaster...I'm headed your way this weekend. Once I get there and get the lay of the land I'll let you know and we can get together. Baby is due the 26th. And JudyM...maybe I can meet you this time!
Exciting news!! DS got his first flight today!Said Super hornet is awesome! So happy for him to be back in the air! Great news Suzie,no matter when you got it! Great day!!
Thanks, Suzie. It was a very surreal couple of weeks. DIL is recovering well. Downside of the whole thing was the kids had to go through dad leaving all over again when DS went back to the boat. Our DIL said she would not recommend a mid-deployment reunion. At least they are on the downhill side of the deployment.
Congrats to your DS. Another milestone!
Welcome ginarn93. Tell us about your aviator. Ask questions, share your exciting news and any frustrations. We are here to help, rejoice and commiserate with you.
My daughter had her baby on Wednesday...8 days early! A sweet girl named June. She is such a precious bundle of joy....this grandma stuff is wonderful.
Paymaster and JudyM - I'm in town and ready to schedule dinner. I can do Wednesday or Thursday this week or Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday next week. Any of those work for you?
Sweet picture Cheri and what a beautiful baby girl!
Helomom: I could not believe the story about what your DIL went through! So glad that your DS was able to get leave to be there and I am really impressed with how quickly the Navy made that happen. I actually went through an almost identical situation 11 years ago. I ended up having three surgeries over the course of a year. The last one put me into surgical menopause and my then husband (a surgeon) was convinced I had a post operative pelvic abscess because of the low grade fever and night sweats-haha! I hope her recovery is uneventful!
My DS got short notice deployed right after he finished his carrier quals. For all those new moms out there, this was the hurry up part of the hurry up and wait that is the Navy life. He finished his quals Jan. 30 and was on his way Feb. 9th to join the Carl Vinson in the Persian Gulf. He was PriA and had his heart set on going to Japan, which he could have, but some pilots go their entire career without flying a combat mission and he could not say no to the CO of the squadron that asked for him. Now when I see a bunch of posts on N4M, I get a little anxious about what is going on!
Hope those of you on the east coast and in the south are staying warm and safe!
Gonavymom-So far all is going well with our DIL. I know they were not able to clear everything during her surgery so there may be more down the road. Hopefully DS will be home if this reoccurs. Your DS is on the Vinson? So is mine! He flies SAR so hopefully they will never meet ;-)
Cheri H- beautiful! Congrats on your new blessing! My DS will be starting his first deployment April/May this year. I recall there were some great postings on tips for sending care packages to a ship. Is there a forum discussion on this or does anyone remember when this discussion was posted? thanks and Happy Friday!
Thank you all for the kind words. After reading past posts and taking a lot of notes I am still unclear if I can send my son letters it being only 3 days into OCS. I am ok with him there and very proud but you all speak of sending many letters to keep his spirit up. How do I get that information? How do I find out his class? Thanks for any info. The prior posts enlightened me a lot.
Hi Amanda! My son Ethan is currently at OCS in RI. He reported on February 8. You can send letters now, actually the sooner the better. Also, there is a Facebook website you can "like" called Officer Training Command Newport. They will periodically load pics so hopefully by week 3 or 4 you will be able to spot your son in these. My son is starting his 4th week and his class pics have not been posted but I am on the watch!! Just be sure you DO NOT comment on any of the photos..I have been told it's a NO NO!
I'm new to this site. My DD reports to Pensacola 6/26. She has to find off-base housing. Does anyone have any ideas for us? I'm trying to help her decide what type of housing she should look for and where. We know she may have to move 2-4 times, depending on her ultimate platform. No leases without a military clause. But, should we look for an apt alone, look for a roomate situation, a mother-in-law apt...??? Any other tips any of you may have will be greatly appreciated. Thanks
My DA reported to Pensacola as an aviator on 10/1/2014. He recently began Basic Flight Training at Whiting Air Field in Milton. He was lucky enough to start at the same time as his roommate from college/NROTC, so they got an apartment together in Pensacola and again in Milton along with a new friend they met down there. Since he went through it so recently, I asked his advice. He asks if she's SNA (Student Naval Aviator) or SNFO (Student naval Flight Officer)?
Hi randy04- my DS lived at Austinwood apts for his training at Pensacola. its right next to countrywood on Blue Angel parkway. His apt was nice, just request to be away from the parkway, traffic noise can get loud. its very convenient, close to the target and walmart, just outside the back gate. Perdido beach isn't too far, he enjoyed running there. my DS was only there for 5 months and then moved to Corpus. No problem breaking the lease. He was happy living alone for this stretch, though others had great experience having roomates. Welcome!
My DS lives at Angel Cove (formerly Austinwood) which is located at the back gate of base across from Country Wood. He lives alone and has enjoyed it....can be with folks when he wants or have his space when he wants....think it depends on personality. I think there are 7 mo, 12 mo, or 18 mo. leases available, and there is a military clause.
Randy04-
If your DD is going to be a SNA checking in then out the back gate is good because they will only be there for a short period at NAS Pensacola and they have to muster daily while waiting to class up for API. She would need to make sure she is at least 35 miles or more away from NAS Whiting in case she gets follow on orders to there as that is the rule to use the military clause to break your lease if you go from NAS Pensacola to NAS Whiting. Back gate area is good for being able to break the lease with the military clause, the clause requires 30 days notice with any lease breaking. Sometimes commands have to write letters as the orders may not come until last minute.
If she is going to be a SNFO then out the back gate or even the East side of town is nice(closer to night life). Peridido is where a lot of SNFOs lived when we were there but that still is a trek to base or the downtown night life.
Stay away from any lettered or numbered streets, these locations are considered "ghetto" in Pensacola. The front gate has a few nice places on the water but caution living out the front gate area. It's a rougher area.
We spent a year in Florida with API then Primary at WF, my job required me to be in the "rough" neighborhoods so I am very familiar with where not to live, feel free to ask any questions you may have.
NOAM
Like Suzie (and with Suzie ;-) ) this was my first time meeting a real live Navy4mom! Was awesome seeing both our DS's on Family Day. What a blessing!
Feb 2, 2015
Helomom
Feb 3, 2015
Helomom
Feb 3, 2015
Paymaster
Feb 4, 2015
Barb
Helomom, oh my gosh! Hugs and more hugs for all of you! So glad to hear that all went as well as could be hoped for and that all of you were able to be there to support.
Feb 4, 2015
Helomom
Feb 4, 2015
JudyM
Feb 8, 2015
NOAM
Congrats JudyM!
Feb 8, 2015
Paymaster
Feb 8, 2015
JudyM
Feb 8, 2015
KC11
Feb 9, 2015
Barb
Suzie, wow! I'm covered in goosebumps...prayers and warm thoughts. What an exciting and nerve-wracking time, but this is what our kids dreamed for!
Feb 10, 2015
JudyM
DS is back and this is how his wife greeted him!
Feb 10, 2015
Barb
JudyM, love it! So glad he's back.
Feb 10, 2015
ulua
Congratulations Judy! What a great photo and I hope you get to give him a big hug soon too!
Suzie, prayers for you and your son this week, CQs are stressful. Hope you get that happy phone-call soon!
Feb 10, 2015
Helomom
Feb 10, 2015
JudyM
Wow, Susie, CQs can give a Mom gray hair. Hopefully he will have an easy time.
Feb 10, 2015
NOAM
The boys (and yes they will always be our boys!) are in my prayers Suzie. I'm sure they will do well.
Awesome pic Judy - can feel the joyful emotion. :-)
Feb 10, 2015
CheriH
Suzie...I've been thinking about you and praying for you and your DS and his CQs this week. Hope you've heard successful results by now! I remember how stressed I was when my DS did his in the T45. Can't imagine what it will be like when he gets to the F18.
Helomom...hope your DIL is recovered and doing great. So thankful it wasn't cancer.
NavymomBarb...don't know if anyone has answered your question yet. But what your DD is experiencing is totally normal. And it's totally normal for her to be frustrated! It seems that they schedule the students who are the farthest along in the training first and the newer students last. So, it does get better as she goes along. It usually speeds up a bunch at the end. And if her Onwing is gone, then she probably is just sitting there til he gets back. They do give them a refresher flight if it's been too long since they have flown. Hang in there...it is tough listening to them when they are frustrated. But just wait...they days when they've had a fantastic flight are pure joy to listen to.
Jamielss...congrats on the successful CQs!
JudyM...great pic! When I see those reunions is when the sacrifices made become very real.
Welcome to our new moms! We are glad you have joined our special group. Let us hear your thoughts, questions, joys and frustrations. We can answer, empathize and rejoice with you.
Paymaster...I'm headed your way this weekend. Once I get there and get the lay of the land I'll let you know and we can get together. Baby is due the 26th. And JudyM...maybe I can meet you this time!
Feb 16, 2015
JudyM
Feb 16, 2015
ulua
Congratulations Suzie! What awesome news and so happy he is assigned to a base close to home. I'm sure you will be smiling for days!
Feb 18, 2015
JudyM
Feb 18, 2015
Barb
Feb 18, 2015
CheriH
Yay Suzie! Every new step is exciting. Does that mean he has finished the Rag?
Feb 22, 2015
Helomom
Congrats to your DS. Another milestone!
Feb 22, 2015
CheriH
My daughter had her baby on Wednesday...8 days early! A sweet girl named June. She is such a precious bundle of joy....this grandma stuff is wonderful.
Paymaster and JudyM - I'm in town and ready to schedule dinner. I can do Wednesday or Thursday this week or Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday next week. Any of those work for you?
Feb 23, 2015
Paymaster
Feb 23, 2015
JudyM
Sorry ladies. I will not be available at all next week. Leaving Thursday am this week. Have fun!
Feb 24, 2015
JudyM
CheriH, where are you staying in our area?
Feb 24, 2015
CheriH
In Folsom; my daughter lives here. I will still be here the week of the 7th-14th; will you be back then?
Feb 24, 2015
JudyM
Feb 24, 2015
Barb
Feb 25, 2015
CheriH
So, here's my new grandbaby! She's so precious. 5 days old and already stolen her Mimi's heart!
Feb 25, 2015
Helomom
Feb 25, 2015
gonavymom
Sweet picture Cheri and what a beautiful baby girl!
Helomom: I could not believe the story about what your DIL went through! So glad that your DS was able to get leave to be there and I am really impressed with how quickly the Navy made that happen. I actually went through an almost identical situation 11 years ago. I ended up having three surgeries over the course of a year. The last one put me into surgical menopause and my then husband (a surgeon) was convinced I had a post operative pelvic abscess because of the low grade fever and night sweats-haha! I hope her recovery is uneventful!
My DS got short notice deployed right after he finished his carrier quals. For all those new moms out there, this was the hurry up part of the hurry up and wait that is the Navy life. He finished his quals Jan. 30 and was on his way Feb. 9th to join the Carl Vinson in the Persian Gulf. He was PriA and had his heart set on going to Japan, which he could have, but some pilots go their entire career without flying a combat mission and he could not say no to the CO of the squadron that asked for him. Now when I see a bunch of posts on N4M, I get a little anxious about what is going on!
Hope those of you on the east coast and in the south are staying warm and safe!
Feb 26, 2015
Helomom
Feb 26, 2015
JudyM
Feb 26, 2015
ulua
Cheri H- beautiful! Congrats on your new blessing! My DS will be starting his first deployment April/May this year. I recall there were some great postings on tips for sending care packages to a ship. Is there a forum discussion on this or does anyone remember when this discussion was posted? thanks and Happy Friday!
Feb 27, 2015
Amanda1965
Looking forward to all your knowledge. My son just entered Newport RI on March 1st. Have been reading past posts. Very helpful.
Mar 2, 2015
JudyM
Mar 2, 2015
Paymaster
Mar 2, 2015
Amanda1965
Thank you all for the kind words. After reading past posts and taking a lot of notes I am still unclear if I can send my son letters it being only 3 days into OCS. I am ok with him there and very proud but you all speak of sending many letters to keep his spirit up. How do I get that information? How do I find out his class? Thanks for any info. The prior posts enlightened me a lot.
Mar 3, 2015
jdianew
Hi Amanda! My son Ethan is currently at OCS in RI. He reported on February 8. You can send letters now, actually the sooner the better. Also, there is a Facebook website you can "like" called Officer Training Command Newport. They will periodically load pics so hopefully by week 3 or 4 you will be able to spot your son in these. My son is starting his 4th week and his class pics have not been posted but I am on the watch!! Just be sure you DO NOT comment on any of the photos..I have been told it's a NO NO!
Mar 3, 2015
randy04
I'm new to this site. My DD reports to Pensacola 6/26. She has to find off-base housing. Does anyone have any ideas for us? I'm trying to help her decide what type of housing she should look for and where. We know she may have to move 2-4 times, depending on her ultimate platform. No leases without a military clause. But, should we look for an apt alone, look for a roomate situation, a mother-in-law apt...??? Any other tips any of you may have will be greatly appreciated. Thanks
Mar 5, 2015
helenp
My DA reported to Pensacola as an aviator on 10/1/2014. He recently began Basic Flight Training at Whiting Air Field in Milton. He was lucky enough to start at the same time as his roommate from college/NROTC, so they got an apartment together in Pensacola and again in Milton along with a new friend they met down there. Since he went through it so recently, I asked his advice. He asks if she's SNA (Student Naval Aviator) or SNFO (Student naval Flight Officer)?
Mar 5, 2015
randy04
Thanks, HelenP, She's a SNA
Mar 5, 2015
helenp
My DS says Country Wood and Angel Cove are the most military friendly. Both of those places let you break lease to go to Whiting.
Mar 5, 2015
ulua
Hi randy04- my DS lived at Austinwood apts for his training at Pensacola. its right next to countrywood on Blue Angel parkway. His apt was nice, just request to be away from the parkway, traffic noise can get loud. its very convenient, close to the target and walmart, just outside the back gate. Perdido beach isn't too far, he enjoyed running there. my DS was only there for 5 months and then moved to Corpus. No problem breaking the lease. He was happy living alone for this stretch, though others had great experience having roomates. Welcome!
Mar 5, 2015
pbmcdaniel
My DS lives at Angel Cove (formerly Austinwood) which is located at the back gate of base across from Country Wood. He lives alone and has enjoyed it....can be with folks when he wants or have his space when he wants....think it depends on personality. I think there are 7 mo, 12 mo, or 18 mo. leases available, and there is a military clause.
Mar 5, 2015
Hurricane
If your DD is going to be a SNA checking in then out the back gate is good because they will only be there for a short period at NAS Pensacola and they have to muster daily while waiting to class up for API. She would need to make sure she is at least 35 miles or more away from NAS Whiting in case she gets follow on orders to there as that is the rule to use the military clause to break your lease if you go from NAS Pensacola to NAS Whiting. Back gate area is good for being able to break the lease with the military clause, the clause requires 30 days notice with any lease breaking. Sometimes commands have to write letters as the orders may not come until last minute.
If she is going to be a SNFO then out the back gate or even the East side of town is nice(closer to night life). Peridido is where a lot of SNFOs lived when we were there but that still is a trek to base or the downtown night life.
Stay away from any lettered or numbered streets, these locations are considered "ghetto" in Pensacola. The front gate has a few nice places on the water but caution living out the front gate area. It's a rougher area.
We spent a year in Florida with API then Primary at WF, my job required me to be in the "rough" neighborhoods so I am very familiar with where not to live, feel free to ask any questions you may have.
Mar 5, 2015