Well my Hubby graduates this week. It was supposed to be tomorrow but it looks like it might have been changed or pushed back a day, and they keep changing what day he is gonna get to fly out, or just changing what they are telling him. He was already asleep when I talked to him so I didnt get much out of him lol :) but anyways, He got his orders we are headed to Everett, WA where he will be attached to the USS Lincoln! The ship will change ports to Virginia mid 2012, where it will be drydocked until 2016 if I remember correctly. Fingers crossed we stick with this ship the whole way through that!! But anways, I am sooo ready for him to be home! Already started going through my stuff throwing stuff out and selling stuff I dont need!! We are so excited to finally start our life together!! I graduate this summer from college so I will be free to follow him for awhile and take a much needed break from school!! :)
Does anyone know if we can go into the airport at all when we take our sailor? I do not want to do the out the car door departure!! We are fortunate that he is flying out of O'Hare and we live just an hour away, I just have so many worries. He is fine and excited, I am a wreck!!
Because you are family of an active duty military member, airlines will automatically give you a gate pass --- to either see them off or pick them up AT THE GATE! It was AWESOME to find this out and pick up my daughter at the gate when she visited on leave ....
O'Hare has the USO outside the secure area, so if he is flying commercial, not a charter, you should be able to meet him at the USO lounge. I believe the other Chicago airport, Midland ???, has a USO inside the secure area which causes other issues.
Took my son to the airport today....I, my husband and my daughter were able to get a pass to go to the gate with him. No problem. We did have to go thru security...but it was not an issue. It was very emotional for me...but I didn't have a breakdown...till he got on the plane. Japan is way to far away from me.....and honestly I do not like this one bit. I am happy that he will get to see a wonderful place, but I think that one year there would be plenty....they don't need him for 3 years. Thinking I will be planning a trip over to Japan for March/April 2012....
My son made it to Sasebo and skyped me from the USO there. He is on the ship the Germantown. He was off duty today, (probably to recover from the jet lag) He seems good which eases my mind kind of. He ran into an old classmate while there which was insane to me....but it just shows you how small the world really is. Wanted to say thank yofu all for your support during this time of adjustment for me too. It's been hard. Harder than boot camp...harder than I ever imagined.....but all that matters is that he is happy!
Happy Mother's Day to all of you! So glad when I can read the good news - even though Mom's go through so many emotions when they are separated from their kids. Thanks for all the support you have given me - you are a wonderful group!
Well, my son went off yesterday. We were able to get a gate pass (thanks everyone for the info) and that helped. I was a wreck, especially when they called for him to board. I watched through a crack in the wall when he got in line to board and there he was, talking to another sailor, and BEAMING! He was so ready to go and begin this next part of the journey. I watched until he went through the tunnel and tried to hold myself together through the airport. We stopped at church because my daughter was signing for First Communion and that helped to ease the heart ache for an hour. I finally got home and crawled under a blanket and slept for 3 hours with a very heavy, achy heart. He did text me for about a half hour last night and I swear I could feel him smiling through the phone. Today he called and sounds like he is on cloud nine. At least we can have contact through this part. Now to figure out how to get to Hawaii and when!
Sailormommind - you did awesome - know it had to be the hardest thing you have ever done! How exciting for him to be in the next phase of his life. Guess our Mom's had a horrible time letting us go also - but they did - we left - and they hurt like we do now. Thinking positive thoughts for you and your family.
Just an F.Y.I On Monday, the Military channel will be airing a special on Bin Laden and behind the scenes of the SEALS and how the whole plan came into place.
Taking my Sailor her new car next week ... (isn't it funny how they want us to let go until they need us to do something like negotiate a car purchase for them --- or buy them a GPS or stereo (which I haven't done)) :-) I'm very excited to see her, the base, the barracks, etc. Leaving Tuesday morning (just need to find somewhere to stop halfway between Minneapolis and Memphis) and I'll see her Wednesday after work!
Does anyone know if there is a West Virginia group? I tried doing a search, but I didn't find one. One for spouses is preferred, but I'll take what I can get! Hubby got his verbals to WV last Thursday.
camenae,,,go to the group tab at the top of the page and click on it... when you get to the search tab,, type in West Virgina,,,,, there should be several groups but one says West Virgina Moms... that may take you somewhere...think they had 44 members. Also you may want to join the group of your hubby's rating as well. Hope this helps.. :)
Hi Navy Family....just checking in. It seems that we're all going in so many directions, but coming back here is like coming home. Its so nice to see familiar names and how each of your Sailors are doing. Mine is still in GL at (GM) A-school. I'm kind of glad she had such an extended period there. She has really become comfortable with GL and has made a "boat load" of friends. (Lol!) Her tentative graduation from A-school is July 8. Then, either an assignment or C-school. Apparently there next step has something to do with their class rank, so she does not know what she'll be doing next. I was able to visit her once since PIR. I hope to be able to attend graduation, but these airplane fares are insane! I wish one of the commercial airlines would have a military family program. (Maybe I'll write to them and suggest that!). This has been an emotional journey for me. I'm so glad to have the support of my Navy family. I hope this group stands the test of time. Prayers and hugs to everyone!
Hi ame....try Delta, they sometimes will offer military family discounts, but you have to call and ask I believe. :) Here are hugs to you and praying you will make it to her graduation. Frontier flies into Milwaukee, and thats how we got there in Feb. You might check the web site too. <3
I just got back from a long weekend at Goose Creek, SC where my son is more than halfway through nuclear A school. It was a great time I am on the bus now riding back from Boston airport. It is already in the 90's down there. He is doing great in school and will be a petty officer in less than 3 months.
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My son is still at Pensacola and is loving it. Loves the weather and loves what he is doing. He will not graduate from A school till end of August. He said if they get hit by any hurricanes it will get pushed back. He is doing well in his classes even though they are incredibly hard. He hit some rough patches and had to relearn how to study. This is an A straight kid who never had to study, but like I told him this isn't high school anymore and you are now in the Navy and it is suppose to be hard. He just said "I know Mom, you are right".
Still haven't seen him since PIR but we do Skype every Sunday so I am okay with that. I have had to learn to let go which was hard, but has gotten easier since I know he is doing what he loves and is safe and okay. He has grown up so much since he left for boot camp and he is finding out that he is more grown up then his friends who went away to college. He says he doesn't have much in common with them anymore.
William -- I'm sure you were glad to see your son! I remember your posts during BC indicating that you would not see him until he was in A-school. I'm glad it was a great time.
Ame... my BF"s son in law is a GM, he is out in San Diego! He loves it! He is going on his 2nd year. He was able to chose his job so I am assuming he did pretty well in school.
William: Glad that you had a good visit with your sailor!
himmiemom - Great to hear that your sailor is doing well and enjoys Pensacola
mamawalrus - Heading to Gulfport for my sailor's graduation from A school then bringing him home for a few days before he returns for combat training. Planning a large celebration with friends and family while he is here.
Mamawalrus after my son graduates A school in August he will get 10 days' leave to come home for a visit, then it is back to Goose Creek for another six months of Nuclear Power School. After NPS he is scheduled for six months of nuclear reactor operator qualifications at Prototype, which can either be in Goose Creek, SC or else Ballston Spa, NY. At the end of it all he will be off to sea for four years. He is hoping to be assigned to a nuclear attack submarine, but it might be a missile submarine or aircraft carrier, but is fine with it either way.
It's nice to see some activity in this group! I LOVE hearing all the updates and where everyone is these days. I don't know why, but it feels...comforting. I hope everyone has a wonderful Memorial Day weekend while we honor those who served this country. God Bless all of our Sailors, Airman, Soldiers, Marines and Guardians....past and present!
Himmie -- your profile pic really makes it feel like coming home again ;-)
My son spent 17 days home before leaving for Japan on May 13. He made the most of every single day! Up early, golfed every day, met up with all of his buddies. Loved having him here...in and out of the house...friends stopping by...and making his favorite meals. We went to a Yankees game the day before he left for Japan...it was wonderful! I really did good at staying in the moment while he was home...but those last few days were difficult. UGH...those last few hours at JFK, I couldn't even talk. Every time I wanted to say something to him I would start to cry. So I stopped talking :-) Anyways, he's been there for a week and a half and we've texted a couple of times and he called once. He sounds good and that makes my heart feel good.
Yes Himmie,, that kitty cat went through boot with us all and our many nights on here!!!!!!
William,,,wow that sounds awesome! It will be nice to have him home and for some good memories. You must be so proud!
We to are hoping to get my son home on leave after A school,,, have not seen him since PIR and dying to get him home for some good relaxing and home cooked meals. ;)
Map,,,,,,HOOYAH! Lots of well wishes from a former a former 804/289 mama! Keep us posted.
Momofahousefull.....Congratulations!!!!! That is awesome.
Belle my Himalayan will hopefully be getting a new play friend this summer. I am glad her picture makes you guys feel like "home". I love this picture too.
Himmie - She is just too cute. I know she is eyeing a pop top, but she looks like she is asking for a cup of tea.
So happy to hear of everyone's good news!
My son is currently in holding, as he was dropped from the program he was in. He can return in two years and try, try again. For now, we wait to see what new adventures are in store for him.
Peachy - what a positive attitude you are showing all of us - I know that there is something special for each and every sailor in our group. Might not be what they started with - but how can they go wrong in the Navy?? At least they have a job and a future - that is a positive!
Hi all! My SeaBee finished A school yesterday and is home for a few days before returning to Gulfport for combat training. He'll then get orders to go wherever the Navy needs him to go.
Hello everyone. If you go to this site and click on 'The wall' you can upload a photo of your Sailor with a message. Lets show everyone our Navy pride! Please make a donation to the USO, if you can!
Life is Peachy...She is actually playing with a beer bottle cap which is one of her favorite toys. She bats it around on the table and floor until it goes under the stove or fridge. We got a new fridge and it was so funny to see how many beer bottle caps were under the fridge.
meagan5220
May 1, 2011
sailormommind
May 3, 2011
tls
May 3, 2011
mamawalrus
Great info to know! Thanks!
May 4, 2011
NF Mom
May 4, 2011
Life is Peachy
May 4, 2011
grandmac
May 4, 2011
battlebuddy
May 6, 2011
tackijacky
May 6, 2011
mamawalrus
May 6, 2011
mamawalrus
May 6, 2011
grandmac
May 6, 2011
Life is Peachy
May 7, 2011
battlebuddy
My son made it to Sasebo and skyped me from the USO there. He is on the ship the Germantown. He was off duty today, (probably to recover from the jet lag) He seems good which eases my mind kind of. He ran into an old classmate while there which was insane to me....but it just shows you how small the world really is. Wanted to say thank yofu all for your support during this time of adjustment for me too. It's been hard. Harder than boot camp...harder than I ever imagined.....but all that matters is that he is happy!
I hope you all have a wonderful Mother's day!
May 7, 2011
grandmac
May 7, 2011
Momofahousefull
May 8, 2011
sailormommind
May 8, 2011
grandmac
May 8, 2011
mdubtxmom(Ship 09 Div 069)
May 9, 2011
William in Nashua
Well good luck to you and your son mdubtxmom. My son will cross the "halfway through A school" mark this week.
May 9, 2011
mamawalrus
May 12, 2011
William in Nashua
May 12, 2011
mamawalrus
On Monday, the Military channel will be airing a special on Bin Laden and behind the scenes of the SEALS and how the whole plan came into place.
May 13, 2011
mamawalrus
Wow I know its been a long time! Safe Travels and so glad you are finally going to give that hug!
May 13, 2011
tls
Taking my Sailor her new car next week ... (isn't it funny how they want us to let go until they need us to do something like negotiate a car purchase for them --- or buy them a GPS or stereo (which I haven't done)) :-) I'm very excited to see her, the base, the barracks, etc. Leaving Tuesday morning (just need to find somewhere to stop halfway between Minneapolis and Memphis) and I'll see her Wednesday after work!
May 13, 2011
Momofahousefull
May 13, 2011
mamawalrus
www.navydads.com
Hope you all enjoy this
May 16, 2011
camenae
May 16, 2011
mamawalrus
May 17, 2011
camenae
May 17, 2011
ame7
May 22, 2011
battlebuddy
May 22, 2011
mamawalrus
Hi ame7,,,,,,what is her rating?
I think that is a great idea for the airlines to offer military discount for parents! I may write too!
I am glad we all check in from time to time.
Anyone have plans for the Memorial Weekend?
May 23, 2011
William in Nashua
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May 23, 2011
mamawalrus
awesome William! I am glad you had a great time! Where will he go after school?
May 23, 2011
himmiemom
Just checking in to say hello.
My son is still at Pensacola and is loving it. Loves the weather and loves what he is doing. He will not graduate from A school till end of August. He said if they get hit by any hurricanes it will get pushed back. He is doing well in his classes even though they are incredibly hard. He hit some rough patches and had to relearn how to study. This is an A straight kid who never had to study, but like I told him this isn't high school anymore and you are now in the Navy and it is suppose to be hard. He just said "I know Mom, you are right".
Still haven't seen him since PIR but we do Skype every Sunday so I am okay with that. I have had to learn to let go which was hard, but has gotten easier since I know he is doing what he loves and is safe and okay. He has grown up so much since he left for boot camp and he is finding out that he is more grown up then his friends who went away to college. He says he doesn't have much in common with them anymore.
May 23, 2011
ame7
William -- I'm sure you were glad to see your son! I remember your posts during BC indicating that you would not see him until he was in A-school. I'm glad it was a great time.
Mamawalrus -- She is a GM (Gunners Mate).
May 23, 2011
mamawalrus
Ame... my BF"s son in law is a GM, he is out in San Diego! He loves it! He is going on his 2nd year. He was able to chose his job so I am assuming he did pretty well in school.
Does she have an idea where she wants to be?
May 24, 2011
Momofahousefull
Hi all -
William: Glad that you had a good visit with your sailor!
himmiemom - Great to hear that your sailor is doing well and enjoys Pensacola
mamawalrus - Heading to Gulfport for my sailor's graduation from A school then bringing him home for a few days before he returns for combat training. Planning a large celebration with friends and family while he is here.
May 24, 2011
William in Nashua
May 24, 2011
ame7
It's nice to see some activity in this group! I LOVE hearing all the updates and where everyone is these days. I don't know why, but it feels...comforting. I hope everyone has a wonderful Memorial Day weekend while we honor those who served this country. God Bless all of our Sailors, Airman, Soldiers, Marines and Guardians....past and present!
Himmie -- your profile pic really makes it feel like coming home again ;-)
May 24, 2011
cathyo Ship 11 Div 063
My son spent 17 days home before leaving for Japan on May 13. He made the most of every single day! Up early, golfed every day, met up with all of his buddies. Loved having him here...in and out of the house...friends stopping by...and making his favorite meals. We went to a Yankees game the day before he left for Japan...it was wonderful! I really did good at staying in the moment while he was home...but those last few days were difficult. UGH...those last few hours at JFK, I couldn't even talk. Every time I wanted to say something to him I would start to cry. So I stopped talking :-) Anyways, he's been there for a week and a half and we've texted a couple of times and he called once. He sounds good and that makes my heart feel good.
Good wishes to all!!!
May 24, 2011
mamawalrus
Yes Himmie,, that kitty cat went through boot with us all and our many nights on here!!!!!!
William,,,wow that sounds awesome! It will be nice to have him home and for some good memories. You must be so proud!
We to are hoping to get my son home on leave after A school,,, have not seen him since PIR and dying to get him home for some good relaxing and home cooked meals. ;)
Map,,,,,,HOOYAH! Lots of well wishes from a former a former 804/289 mama! Keep us posted.
Momofahousefull.....Congratulations!!!!! That is awesome.
.Where is he going for training?
May 24, 2011
himmiemom
May 25, 2011
Life is Peachy
Himmie - She is just too cute. I know she is eyeing a pop top, but she looks like she is asking for a cup of tea.
So happy to hear of everyone's good news!
My son is currently in holding, as he was dropped from the program he was in. He can return in two years and try, try again. For now, we wait to see what new adventures are in store for him.
May 25, 2011
grandmac
May 25, 2011
Momofahousefull
Hi all! My SeaBee finished A school yesterday and is home for a few days before returning to Gulfport for combat training. He'll then get orders to go wherever the Navy needs him to go.
Hoo-yah and have a safe and great Memorial Day!
May 27, 2011
William in Nashua
May 27, 2011
Life is Peachy
Hello everyone. If you go to this site and click on 'The wall' you can upload a photo of your Sailor with a message. Lets show everyone our Navy pride! Please make a donation to the USO, if you can!
http://www.honoringourheroes.com/
May 27, 2011
himmiemom
Jun 3, 2011