Tami-XSM - Welcome to the Nuke Moms group and it is great to see you posting on BC Moms group. Your son will go through BC, and then he will have A school, Power School and Prototype before he heads to the fleet. It use to be around the 6th week of BC that the Nukes were assigned their rate for Nuclear - MM, EM, or ET. I don't know if they are currently still on that time frame or not in BC.
Do not hesitate to ask any questions here or in the BC Mom group.
SubMom - So good to hear from you! My condolences to you and the family of your CEO. It sounds like a weekend away was refreshing. What a wonderful treasure to find as well. I am so glad that your family was able to celebrate your MIL's b'day. The outdoor pizza party sounds like a great idea!!
SubMom - Happy Birthday to your MIL! It's nice that you were able to spend some time with her for her bday - I'm sure she enjoyed it ;-D. I'm sorry to hear about your CEO.
The Hammer - I hope your son gets some answers soon about his belongings. An added stress he just doesn't need right now!
Great news. My sailor let me know yesterday that he is ranked 4th in his class after a big test he had Monday. He is studying constantly trying to stay at 3.6 or higher.
I will get to see my sailor in a couple of weeks. Going to GC.
Somar - so excited for you!! Congratulations to your son!! My sailor enjoyed the challenge of striving to do well on his tests. For him, it fed that competitive spirit of his.
B'sNukeMoM - thanks! I was finally able to connect with someone at NAVSUP FLC Puget Sound via email, who helped him extend his move. He is now working on his motorcycle (which he shipped himself).
Somar, congrats to your son, mine never tells me where he ranks but that he tries hard to keep his grades above 3.2. Let us know how your trip goes, we plan on heading there in August. Have fun and a safe trip.
It's nice to see your sailors doing so well in their classes. Just remember the saying is "2.5 to stay alive". They don't need to stress themselves out over their grades. Some sections will come easier than others and some will excel in one school over another. The key is to just stay focused and get to the finish line. B had a hard time in Power School and did really well in Prototype - he liked the hands on aspect of it better. Just keep encouraging them no matter what!
Northwoodsmom, I saw your post on BC Mom about facetime with your sailor and the information needed for you to come visit him. I hope you share that here as well. My sailor was not as specific but in VA they are still being very restrictive, so thanks for the idea of what I will have to provide possibly should we plan to travel and visit.
Good morning Ladies, my son called last night. He looks sooo good and is very happy. We are planning on seeing him in August and he had to get special request from his administrator for us to visit. Here are some of the things we needed to send. A form showing the numbers of coronavirus cases and deaths in our county. A itinerary of what we plan on doing while we are visiting our Sailor. Like I said seeing him is the only sightseeing I need to do. They are still very much restricted and will not be able for overnight visits, I would advise anyone who is planning a visit stay close as you can to the base because you will have to take them back every night. Try to get the information back to your Sailor as soon as you can. We rented a house so I am making all his favorite meals so we don't have to go out in public to eat. Do whatever you must fo to insure the possibility of seeing your Sailor. God Bless
NancyJo, yes he is in Goose Creek in A School, his graduation is suppose to be September 11. We are going before that because I need to be back at school at the end of August. We are driving down and not flying. I heard that if you fly you have to quarantine for 14 days but I am not sure if that statement is true. Your best bet is to check with your Sailor.
NancyJo - yes, there is a lot going on lol! We booked N's flight back to Nebraska - he heads your way on 7/22. It will be interesting when he gets there - his car will have been sitting at his apartment for almost 5 months! He has to be moved out of his apartment by 7/25 - luckily he already has another place lined up to move in to. And UNL is opening up but they still haven't said anything about XC yet. I guess they are waiting on a decision from the NCAA.....
I was hearing that the university relies so heavily on its sports, like any major university I suppose, that the loss of revenue is critical. Darn coronavirus! You'll miss N when he's gone, I'll bet. We get used to having them around.
momterp - yes, and the sad thing is he just replaced the battery a few weeks before he left NE to come back home! But he had no idea he would be home for sooooooo long (thanks covid!).
And NancyJo - yes, we will miss him - it has been nice having him around!
The Hammer - Glad to hear that you were able to get through to someone!! Hopefully all of the other logistics will work out as well.
B'sNukeMom - Happy Birthday to B! Hopefully N, can find someone that would be able to charge his battery for him. All the best as he moves from one place to the next.
NancyJo - Good to hear from you!
Hi Momterp!!
Northwoodsmom - Wow!! That is a lot of information to gather. I am glad that I have had visits with my sailor and I think we shall just wait for more clearance before trying to go see him!! Skype, phone calls to and from work, keep me happy. - Glad you were able to rent a house so you can cook for him! Make sure you take more homemade cookies and enough for him to share!
Tami-XSM - you had commented on BC Mom about your son having his car at GC. - Be sure to read Northwoodsmom's recent comment below about what information she has to give her sailor before she can come see him later this summer. You will want to be sure you have any updated COVID information re: A school before you finalize plans for a trip to take your sailor his car.
As for the need of a car at GC - It is entirely possible for your son to get around where he needs to while at NNPTC in GC for both his A school and Power School without a vehicle. His BEQ is there onsite at NNPTC and so the only traveling he needs to do is for "extra curricular." My son did not have a car until about 2-3 months before he started Prototype when they move off site and must rent an apartment. My son used other transportation options, but also purchased a bike from the NEX (which he still has) and rode it on site and off site.
According to what I recall my son telling me, the sailors may have their cars at NNPTC, even if they have not "phased up", they are just not allowed to drive it. Once they pass the phase level for having a car, then they may drive it. - I think I may mention some of this in my discussion above, Nuke A school daily schedule.
Tami-XSM - Chipmunk is correct, they have to phase up before they can actually use the car, but it can be on base before that.
My daughter had her car and was very glad she did. While they can get around by foot or bike to where they "need" to go, they are limited. My daughter and her friends liked to hit the beach and shooting range on weekends and neither of those are anywhere near the base. They also enjoyed going into Charleston to enjoy the sites, etc. My Nuke would say that you definitely want a car.
My son bought a motorcycle out there that he drove most of the time. I also drove his car out to him. Once he finished Prototype, he sold the car and paid to transport the bike. It really comes in handy... especially if you fly there to visit! There's so much to see and do. He also was allowed to drive his car to safety during both the hurricanes... so very convenient.
Thanks folks! I was annoyed yesterday about how slowly time is going (!) so I cleaned my SRs car out...then the room he was using prior to his ship-date. He's lucky he is incommunicado cause he left a mess!
My son is graduating power school July 10 if all goes well and he just recently bought a car, a Honda Civic like mom and dad. He also got a bike awhile back, but mostly used rideshare to get around and walked a lot. He's working on getting an apartment with a few others before prototype.
helena2000 - Congratulations to your son!! All the best as he finishes his final weeks of Power School.
Tami-XSM - I had to laugh at your comment!! Even my son, who helped clean up things from when his sisters moved out, still left stuff unorganized himself, because of the rush from HS graduation, a sister's wedding, and camps before headed to BC.
Happy Father's Day!!
For our Dad's & husbands that still follow along, thank you for all that you do as well to support us and your sailors.
Hi Everyone! I am sorry that I have not been able to log in for a while - my work has been crazy busy, and I have also been very busy with my daughter who graduated HS virtually this year and is now getting ready for college, although we still do not know how exactly that is going to work in the Fall. So many changes and challenges with COVID - the world just feels completely off-kilter right now.
My Nuke is still doing well at A School - he has a solid 3.3 GPA, but is really striving for that 3.4 so he can get his study hours reduced to 10-2s. He is set to graduate on Aug 14, but we have no idea whether we will be able to see him, or not, or if he will get his customary 10 days of leave to come home, or not. We have booked flights and a hotel stay on the Isle of Palms starting a few days before his graduation date, and for a day after, and then we also have a ticket for him to fly home with us, but it is not looking great right now. :(
We talked to him last night and his SLPO said that his 10 days of leave may be "restricted" leave where he still needs to stay within 50 miles of base. If that is the case, then we may try to change our flights and hotel and just stay down there longer to be with him. But he REALLY wants to come home to see the rest of his family and friends, and my heart is just breaking for him because I know he is working so hard with that "carrot" as his reward, and he may not get it, after all this time! He said last night that he is so sad that he hasn't seen his extended family since November, and it may be over 1 year by the time he gets to see them (if he gets leave at Christmas).
So, although I am feeling pretty sad about it today, I am glad I had a few minutes to jump on here and give you all an update, and catch up on some of yours!
Velvetenor - thanks for updating us. Glad to hear that your nuke is doing well in school - and yes it's got to be frustrating that he might not get his leave due to everything going on. Just remind him that this is only temporary (and good preparation for when he hits the fleet)! Hopefully your trip to visit him will give him something to look forward to.
I was talking to a friend about all the changes and upheaval with B&C's wedding and the friend was asking how in the world they are staying so calm about everything. I had to remind her that both of them were in the Navy and they are used to plans changing (and then changing again!) at the drop of a hat! They are definitely Semper Gumby!
Semper Gumby is indeed the phrase of the day. I just received word that Big Kid's wedding is now back to its original date in Oct, but they have lost their venue. I expect multiple changes before all is said and done. We are, after all, dealing with the Navy and COVID!
Velvetenor - I really appreciated your post. I agree everything seems so off kilter right now. I sure hope you get to see your sailor and that he gets to come home. Enjoy the Isle of Palms. We stayed there twice and just loved it.
Velvetenor, gosh it was good to hear from you, I was asking if anyone heard from you because your son was a free weeks ahead of mine. Usually when you made a post I kind of knew what was coming up for my son.
Congratulations to your daughter, I remember you were worrying about juggling between your son's graduation and getting your daughter into college or something like that. I hope you are able to spend sometime with him, they do work so hard and deserve it. I have made plans to see mine in August as well but do know what will allowed so if you hear anything please share it with us. My son isn't always on top of things. With that said he told me that I had to send our counties health report of the Corvid cases plus a itinerary of what we plan on doing. He needs to give it to his SLPO.
helena2000, our son is also graduating power school the same day (if comps go well). We are planning on traveling down to take stuff for his apartment that week after he passes comp. Was so hoping to attend this graduation As he said it is the best one however does not appear meant to be. He also said they will not get leave after power school and he didn’t get leave after A school either so he is learning the needs of the Navy is first and foremost. So looking forward to seeing him in a few weeks and I know he is ready to start prototype to get it over with.
Hey Northwoodsmom! Glad to hear from you, and glad your son is doing well at his A school, too! When will you be visiting him in August?
Yes, we were afraid of overlap with my daughter heading to college and my son's A school graduation, but at least that part seems to be OK, since he is graduating mid-Aug and she is planning to move into her college dorm on Labor Day weekend. This is, of course, all subject to change due to COVID, but as B'sNukeMoM and others have said...Semper Gumby!
That is interesting about needing to send the COVID report from your county and an itinerary to your son's SLPO - I hadn't heard that at all, so I will ask my son about it. He is pretty communicative about things, but he said it has been frustrating because mostly the SLPOs just come in and say that they don't have any more news about lifting restrictions or anything.
Right now I am in crisis mode because our air conditioning is broken and it is so hot and humid here in NJ!! :( Trying to focus on work when you are sweating just typing on your computer is hard...
Jes12joy, that's cool that their graduation is the same day. But I'm pretty worried about my son because he's been having some trouble with focusing on studying and being able to find a study group and getting the help he needs in certain topics. I feel so helpless over a 1000 miles away and of course I couldn't do anything even if I were closer. He said worst case he would have to start power school from the beginning if he fails comps. He's already making arrangements for an apartment, which is more difficult because they can't do it in person. I don't know what happens with the lease if he doesn't pass. I won't be doing any traveling, so we don't get to see him either, and my parents aren't going to go because of the pandemic. He was home in November, and it will have to do for now.
helena2000, please tell your son to not sign a lease until he passes Comp. My son's SLPO instructed them to not sign anything until they have officially passed because if for some reason they don't they will be stuck with the lease. My son has been looking online at apartments and has some friends who already live off base so he has a pretty good idea of where he is going to reside if all goes well.
Good morning everyone! I went to log in yesterday and my server would not even allow me to open the website for security reasons. Finally, it worked, but then I was too busy to respond. It is funny, I definitely felt cut off and had no way of even notifying anyone - so I am just glad whatever needed to be fixed was done.
helena2000 - I agree with jes12joy - If your sailor is concerned about passing comps, do not sign a lease beforehand. I realize there is a lot of pressure for them to be out of the BEQ's but there were still sailors packing up on the day of graduation when we my son had PS graduation. I feel for you. It is hard being far away and not feeling like you can help.
My heart aches for our sailors who are working hard and even if they were not able to visit family, just having time off is helpful. It is difficult to adjust and adapt when dealing with an expectation and end point, doing the "Gumby" flex is not just for us, but for our sailors as well.
Chipmunk - I saw your message to the admins regarding the sign in issues yesterday - I'm not sure what was happening but I didn't have any issues. And glad to see you were finally able to log in. Part of the problem is NING.....I believe from what I've been told the site is using an older version of something and that's why we continue to have problems. Unfortunately we don't get a lot of support :(
B'sNuke, I'm sorry you have to deal with issues as an admin that don't resolve well. When I joined this group years ago we had great support. I wonder if there is a write-in endeavor or something that we could do to solicit support. Perhaps someone or some office that we could write to express this need? The military has had some hard knocks in recent memory and I would imagine something like this that does so much for supporting our sailors would be more appreciated. Maybe I'm tilting at windmills but I would hate for this to go away some day. My sailor will be gone in a year or so but there are many coming behind him that need this.
Helena2000 - Your son may not have to repeat all of PS. My son did not pass PS comps but he went before a review board the next day and was “rolled back” ten weeks. He did not fail by much and showed that he had been to all the study sessions plus had asked for additional help when needed. He easily passed the second time as he was more relaxed and confident in his knowledge. Tell your son to keep the faith and good luck.
CSW, you are so right! When my son was deployed he never knew what he would find in the boxes we sent to him. I would ask what he'd like, and he'd occasionally say something, but most of the time said he liked being surprised and even if there was something he didn't care for there was someone around who would want it. In fact, he had a drawer in his office that anybody could help themselves to. You just never know what will trip their trigger so let your creative juices flow.
NancyJo - there is a marketing & advertising agency that handles our N4M site but they don't really put much into it. My contact there is very helpful, but she can only do so much and no one wants to address the NING issue ($$). So we do what we can and hope it works lol!
I 2nd the care packages/boxes. Get as creative as you can and what they don't want/like they will definitely share with others! We have a discussion up above with care package ideas if anyone needs some suggestions. :)
Helena2000 - B was one of those that didn't pass his power school comp. We got the call literally the day before we were to fly out from CA. We ended up not going - he spent the next few days studying and they had a recomp the beginning of the following week. All of them in his group passed the recomp - but they didn't get to participate in the graduation ceremony.....he did get to go and watch the ceremony though and another mom on here sent me a picture of him with his friends. At the time it seemed like a big deal but at the end of the day it was just a minor blip.....
I couldn't help but share the funny about the hand washing. I don't know about anyone else but between the sanitizer and the constant washing my nails are really taking a beating lol! But I know my hands are super clean!
I am so proud of my son, he said he had a big test coming up Thursday. I prayed asking God to keep his mind focused on the task at hand. He just texted me and said he placed 3rd on the test. I know these test are hard and when other moms talk about their sons doing a couple years of college before they decided on the Navy it floors me that he is doing as well as he is. I know there will be ups and downs and there are areas he won't be as good at but right this very minute I'm just proud.
Chipmunk
Tami-XSM - Welcome to the Nuke Moms group and it is great to see you posting on BC Moms group. Your son will go through BC, and then he will have A school, Power School and Prototype before he heads to the fleet. It use to be around the 6th week of BC that the Nukes were assigned their rate for Nuclear - MM, EM, or ET. I don't know if they are currently still on that time frame or not in BC.
Do not hesitate to ask any questions here or in the BC Mom group.
SubMom - So good to hear from you! My condolences to you and the family of your CEO. It sounds like a weekend away was refreshing. What a wonderful treasure to find as well. I am so glad that your family was able to celebrate your MIL's b'day. The outdoor pizza party sounds like a great idea!!
Jun 17, 2020
B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)
Hi all - Happy Thursday!
SubMom - Happy Birthday to your MIL! It's nice that you were able to spend some time with her for her bday - I'm sure she enjoyed it ;-D. I'm sorry to hear about your CEO.
The Hammer - I hope your son gets some answers soon about his belongings. An added stress he just doesn't need right now!
Jun 18, 2020
somar
Great news. My sailor let me know yesterday that he is ranked 4th in his class after a big test he had Monday. He is studying constantly trying to stay at 3.6 or higher.
I will get to see my sailor in a couple of weeks. Going to GC.
Jun 18, 2020
B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)
SuzyPWarrior - he's cute!
somar - BZ to your son - glad to hear he is doing well. Enjoy your trip to GC!
Jun 18, 2020
Chipmunk
SuzyPWarrior - What a cute Lego sailor!!
Somar - so excited for you!! Congratulations to your son!! My sailor enjoyed the challenge of striving to do well on his tests. For him, it fed that competitive spirit of his.
Jun 18, 2020
The Hammer
B'sNukeMoM - thanks! I was finally able to connect with someone at NAVSUP FLC Puget Sound via email, who helped him extend his move. He is now working on his motorcycle (which he shipped himself).
Happy Thursday everyone!
Jun 18, 2020
SubMom
SuzyPWarrior - love it! I found a rock painted red, white and blue Over the weekend!
somar - congratulations to you sailor! That is an awesome achievement.
The Hammer - so glad you were able to get hold of someone! Hopefully your sailor and breathe a little easier.
Jun 18, 2020
Northwoodsmom
Somar, congrats to your son, mine never tells me where he ranks but that he tries hard to keep his grades above 3.2. Let us know how your trip goes, we plan on heading there in August. Have fun and a safe trip.
Jun 18, 2020
B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)
It's nice to see your sailors doing so well in their classes. Just remember the saying is "2.5 to stay alive". They don't need to stress themselves out over their grades. Some sections will come easier than others and some will excel in one school over another. The key is to just stay focused and get to the finish line. B had a hard time in Power School and did really well in Prototype - he liked the hands on aspect of it better. Just keep encouraging them no matter what!
Jun 18, 2020
Chipmunk
So aptly put as always, B'sNukeMom!! Thanks!
Northwoodsmom, I saw your post on BC Mom about facetime with your sailor and the information needed for you to come visit him. I hope you share that here as well. My sailor was not as specific but in VA they are still being very restrictive, so thanks for the idea of what I will have to provide possibly should we plan to travel and visit.
Jun 18, 2020
Northwoodsmom
Good morning Ladies, my son called last night. He looks sooo good and is very happy. We are planning on seeing him in August and he had to get special request from his administrator for us to visit. Here are some of the things we needed to send. A form showing the numbers of coronavirus cases and deaths in our county. A itinerary of what we plan on doing while we are visiting our Sailor. Like I said seeing him is the only sightseeing I need to do. They are still very much restricted and will not be able for overnight visits, I would advise anyone who is planning a visit stay close as you can to the base because you will have to take them back every night. Try to get the information back to your Sailor as soon as you can. We rented a house so I am making all his favorite meals so we don't have to go out in public to eat. Do whatever you must fo to insure the possibility of seeing your Sailor. God Bless
Jun 19, 2020
NancyJo (NNPTC)
Northwoodsmom, where is your son? I can't recall. Is he in Goose Creek?
Jun 19, 2020
Northwoodsmom
NancyJo, yes he is in Goose Creek in A School, his graduation is suppose to be September 11. We are going before that because I need to be back at school at the end of August. We are driving down and not flying. I heard that if you fly you have to quarantine for 14 days but I am not sure if that statement is true. Your best bet is to check with your Sailor.
Jun 19, 2020
B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)
Hi all - Happy Friday! I've got my RED on.
Jun 19, 2020
B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)
Today is B's birthday - #31! Looking forward to seeing him next month for the wedding <3
Jun 19, 2020
NancyJo (NNPTC)
Aww, B'sNuke, that is so sweet! Great photos. My sailor turns 31 in October. Seems like your family has a lot going on!
I've been kind of off the grid lately but still reading all the posts. Love you awesome mamas!
Jun 19, 2020
B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)
NancyJo - yes, there is a lot going on lol! We booked N's flight back to Nebraska - he heads your way on 7/22. It will be interesting when he gets there - his car will have been sitting at his apartment for almost 5 months! He has to be moved out of his apartment by 7/25 - luckily he already has another place lined up to move in to. And UNL is opening up but they still haven't said anything about XC yet. I guess they are waiting on a decision from the NCAA.....
Jun 19, 2020
NancyJo (NNPTC)
I was hearing that the university relies so heavily on its sports, like any major university I suppose, that the loss of revenue is critical. Darn coronavirus! You'll miss N when he's gone, I'll bet. We get used to having them around.
Jun 19, 2020
momterp
B’sNukeMoM- your son should be prepared for a dead battery! Good luck to home!
Jun 19, 2020
B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)
momterp - yes, and the sad thing is he just replaced the battery a few weeks before he left NE to come back home! But he had no idea he would be home for sooooooo long (thanks covid!).
And NancyJo - yes, we will miss him - it has been nice having him around!
Jun 19, 2020
Chipmunk
The Hammer - Glad to hear that you were able to get through to someone!! Hopefully all of the other logistics will work out as well.
B'sNukeMom - Happy Birthday to B! Hopefully N, can find someone that would be able to charge his battery for him. All the best as he moves from one place to the next.
NancyJo - Good to hear from you!
Hi Momterp!!
Northwoodsmom - Wow!! That is a lot of information to gather. I am glad that I have had visits with my sailor and I think we shall just wait for more clearance before trying to go see him!! Skype, phone calls to and from work, keep me happy. - Glad you were able to rent a house so you can cook for him! Make sure you take more homemade cookies and enough for him to share!
Jun 19, 2020
Chipmunk
Tami-XSM - you had commented on BC Mom about your son having his car at GC. - Be sure to read Northwoodsmom's recent comment below about what information she has to give her sailor before she can come see him later this summer. You will want to be sure you have any updated COVID information re: A school before you finalize plans for a trip to take your sailor his car.
As for the need of a car at GC - It is entirely possible for your son to get around where he needs to while at NNPTC in GC for both his A school and Power School without a vehicle. His BEQ is there onsite at NNPTC and so the only traveling he needs to do is for "extra curricular." My son did not have a car until about 2-3 months before he started Prototype when they move off site and must rent an apartment. My son used other transportation options, but also purchased a bike from the NEX (which he still has) and rode it on site and off site.
According to what I recall my son telling me, the sailors may have their cars at NNPTC, even if they have not "phased up", they are just not allowed to drive it. Once they pass the phase level for having a car, then they may drive it. - I think I may mention some of this in my discussion above, Nuke A school daily schedule.
Jun 19, 2020
JayDee659
Tami-XSM - Chipmunk is correct, they have to phase up before they can actually use the car, but it can be on base before that.
My daughter had her car and was very glad she did. While they can get around by foot or bike to where they "need" to go, they are limited. My daughter and her friends liked to hit the beach and shooting range on weekends and neither of those are anywhere near the base. They also enjoyed going into Charleston to enjoy the sites, etc. My Nuke would say that you definitely want a car.
Jun 20, 2020
The Hammer
My son bought a motorcycle out there that he drove most of the time. I also drove his car out to him. Once he finished Prototype, he sold the car and paid to transport the bike. It really comes in handy... especially if you fly there to visit! There's so much to see and do. He also was allowed to drive his car to safety during both the hurricanes... so very convenient.
Jun 20, 2020
Tami-XSM
Jun 20, 2020
helena2000
My son is graduating power school July 10 if all goes well and he just recently bought a car, a Honda Civic like mom and dad. He also got a bike awhile back, but mostly used rideshare to get around and walked a lot. He's working on getting an apartment with a few others before prototype.
Jun 20, 2020
Chipmunk
helena2000 - Congratulations to your son!! All the best as he finishes his final weeks of Power School.
Tami-XSM - I had to laugh at your comment!! Even my son, who helped clean up things from when his sisters moved out, still left stuff unorganized himself, because of the rush from HS graduation, a sister's wedding, and camps before headed to BC.
Happy Father's Day!!
For our Dad's & husbands that still follow along, thank you for all that you do as well to support us and your sailors.
Jun 21, 2020
B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)
Happy Monday!
Jun 22, 2020
Velvetenor
Hi Everyone! I am sorry that I have not been able to log in for a while - my work has been crazy busy, and I have also been very busy with my daughter who graduated HS virtually this year and is now getting ready for college, although we still do not know how exactly that is going to work in the Fall. So many changes and challenges with COVID - the world just feels completely off-kilter right now.
My Nuke is still doing well at A School - he has a solid 3.3 GPA, but is really striving for that 3.4 so he can get his study hours reduced to 10-2s. He is set to graduate on Aug 14, but we have no idea whether we will be able to see him, or not, or if he will get his customary 10 days of leave to come home, or not. We have booked flights and a hotel stay on the Isle of Palms starting a few days before his graduation date, and for a day after, and then we also have a ticket for him to fly home with us, but it is not looking great right now. :(
We talked to him last night and his SLPO said that his 10 days of leave may be "restricted" leave where he still needs to stay within 50 miles of base. If that is the case, then we may try to change our flights and hotel and just stay down there longer to be with him. But he REALLY wants to come home to see the rest of his family and friends, and my heart is just breaking for him because I know he is working so hard with that "carrot" as his reward, and he may not get it, after all this time! He said last night that he is so sad that he hasn't seen his extended family since November, and it may be over 1 year by the time he gets to see them (if he gets leave at Christmas).
So, although I am feeling pretty sad about it today, I am glad I had a few minutes to jump on here and give you all an update, and catch up on some of yours!
BNMHs to you all! <3
Jun 22, 2020
B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)
Velvetenor - thanks for updating us. Glad to hear that your nuke is doing well in school - and yes it's got to be frustrating that he might not get his leave due to everything going on. Just remind him that this is only temporary (and good preparation for when he hits the fleet)! Hopefully your trip to visit him will give him something to look forward to.
I was talking to a friend about all the changes and upheaval with B&C's wedding and the friend was asking how in the world they are staying so calm about everything. I had to remind her that both of them were in the Navy and they are used to plans changing (and then changing again!) at the drop of a hat! They are definitely Semper Gumby!
Jun 22, 2020
3B'smom
Semper Gumby is indeed the phrase of the day. I just received word that Big Kid's wedding is now back to its original date in Oct, but they have lost their venue. I expect multiple changes before all is said and done. We are, after all, dealing with the Navy and COVID!
B'sNuke: Hope B&C's wedding goes well.
Jun 22, 2020
ProudOfK
Velvetenor - I really appreciated your post. I agree everything seems so off kilter right now. I sure hope you get to see your sailor and that he gets to come home. Enjoy the Isle of Palms. We stayed there twice and just loved it.
Jun 22, 2020
Northwoodsmom
Velvetenor, gosh it was good to hear from you, I was asking if anyone heard from you because your son was a free weeks ahead of mine. Usually when you made a post I kind of knew what was coming up for my son.
Congratulations to your daughter, I remember you were worrying about juggling between your son's graduation and getting your daughter into college or something like that. I hope you are able to spend sometime with him, they do work so hard and deserve it. I have made plans to see mine in August as well but do know what will allowed so if you hear anything please share it with us. My son isn't always on top of things. With that said he told me that I had to send our counties health report of the Corvid cases plus a itinerary of what we plan on doing. He needs to give it to his SLPO.
So good to hear from you, God Bless.
Jun 22, 2020
jes12joy
Jun 23, 2020
B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)
Happy Tuesday!
Jun 23, 2020
B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)
Jun 23, 2020
Velvetenor
Hey Northwoodsmom! Glad to hear from you, and glad your son is doing well at his A school, too! When will you be visiting him in August?
Yes, we were afraid of overlap with my daughter heading to college and my son's A school graduation, but at least that part seems to be OK, since he is graduating mid-Aug and she is planning to move into her college dorm on Labor Day weekend. This is, of course, all subject to change due to COVID, but as B'sNukeMoM and others have said...Semper Gumby!
That is interesting about needing to send the COVID report from your county and an itinerary to your son's SLPO - I hadn't heard that at all, so I will ask my son about it. He is pretty communicative about things, but he said it has been frustrating because mostly the SLPOs just come in and say that they don't have any more news about lifting restrictions or anything.
Right now I am in crisis mode because our air conditioning is broken and it is so hot and humid here in NJ!! :( Trying to focus on work when you are sweating just typing on your computer is hard...
Jun 23, 2020
helena2000
Jes12joy, that's cool that their graduation is the same day. But I'm pretty worried about my son because he's been having some trouble with focusing on studying and being able to find a study group and getting the help he needs in certain topics. I feel so helpless over a 1000 miles away and of course I couldn't do anything even if I were closer. He said worst case he would have to start power school from the beginning if he fails comps. He's already making arrangements for an apartment, which is more difficult because they can't do it in person. I don't know what happens with the lease if he doesn't pass. I won't be doing any traveling, so we don't get to see him either, and my parents aren't going to go because of the pandemic. He was home in November, and it will have to do for now.
Jun 23, 2020
jes12joy
helena2000, please tell your son to not sign a lease until he passes Comp. My son's SLPO instructed them to not sign anything until they have officially passed because if for some reason they don't they will be stuck with the lease. My son has been looking online at apartments and has some friends who already live off base so he has a pretty good idea of where he is going to reside if all goes well.
What rate is your son? MM, EM or ET?
Jun 23, 2020
Chipmunk
Good morning everyone! I went to log in yesterday and my server would not even allow me to open the website for security reasons. Finally, it worked, but then I was too busy to respond. It is funny, I definitely felt cut off and had no way of even notifying anyone - so I am just glad whatever needed to be fixed was done.
helena2000 - I agree with jes12joy - If your sailor is concerned about passing comps, do not sign a lease beforehand. I realize there is a lot of pressure for them to be out of the BEQ's but there were still sailors packing up on the day of graduation when we my son had PS graduation. I feel for you. It is hard being far away and not feeling like you can help.
My heart aches for our sailors who are working hard and even if they were not able to visit family, just having time off is helpful. It is difficult to adjust and adapt when dealing with an expectation and end point, doing the "Gumby" flex is not just for us, but for our sailors as well.
Jun 24, 2020
B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)
Happy Wednesday!
Jun 24, 2020
B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)
Chipmunk - I saw your message to the admins regarding the sign in issues yesterday - I'm not sure what was happening but I didn't have any issues. And glad to see you were finally able to log in. Part of the problem is NING.....I believe from what I've been told the site is using an older version of something and that's why we continue to have problems. Unfortunately we don't get a lot of support :(
Jun 24, 2020
NancyJo (NNPTC)
B'sNuke, I'm sorry you have to deal with issues as an admin that don't resolve well. When I joined this group years ago we had great support. I wonder if there is a write-in endeavor or something that we could do to solicit support. Perhaps someone or some office that we could write to express this need? The military has had some hard knocks in recent memory and I would imagine something like this that does so much for supporting our sailors would be more appreciated. Maybe I'm tilting at windmills but I would hate for this to go away some day. My sailor will be gone in a year or so but there are many coming behind him that need this.
Jun 24, 2020
CSW
Well Mom's one thing we can do to help our sailors know we're thinking about them is sending them small packages!
Some items I've recently sent that did get a smile.... Navy Jack window decal, lego coffee mug with some navy/sub building kits, mushroom growing kit!
I know it's silly, but I drop a note and they get a small distraction that lets them know we're thinking about them!
Jun 24, 2020
Scram
Helena2000 - Your son may not have to repeat all of PS. My son did not pass PS comps but he went before a review board the next day and was “rolled back” ten weeks. He did not fail by much and showed that he had been to all the study sessions plus had asked for additional help when needed. He easily passed the second time as he was more relaxed and confident in his knowledge. Tell your son to keep the faith and good luck.
Jun 24, 2020
NancyJo (NNPTC)
CSW, you are so right! When my son was deployed he never knew what he would find in the boxes we sent to him. I would ask what he'd like, and he'd occasionally say something, but most of the time said he liked being surprised and even if there was something he didn't care for there was someone around who would want it. In fact, he had a drawer in his office that anybody could help themselves to. You just never know what will trip their trigger so let your creative juices flow.
Jun 24, 2020
B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)
Jun 24, 2020
B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)
NancyJo - there is a marketing & advertising agency that handles our N4M site but they don't really put much into it. My contact there is very helpful, but she can only do so much and no one wants to address the NING issue ($$). So we do what we can and hope it works lol!
I 2nd the care packages/boxes. Get as creative as you can and what they don't want/like they will definitely share with others! We have a discussion up above with care package ideas if anyone needs some suggestions. :)
Helena2000 - B was one of those that didn't pass his power school comp. We got the call literally the day before we were to fly out from CA. We ended up not going - he spent the next few days studying and they had a recomp the beginning of the following week. All of them in his group passed the recomp - but they didn't get to participate in the graduation ceremony.....he did get to go and watch the ceremony though and another mom on here sent me a picture of him with his friends. At the time it seemed like a big deal but at the end of the day it was just a minor blip.....
I couldn't help but share the funny about the hand washing. I don't know about anyone else but between the sanitizer and the constant washing my nails are really taking a beating lol! But I know my hands are super clean!
Jun 24, 2020
B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)
Jun 25, 2020
Northwoodsmom
I am so proud of my son, he said he had a big test coming up Thursday. I prayed asking God to keep his mind focused on the task at hand. He just texted me and said he placed 3rd on the test. I know these test are hard and when other moms talk about their sons doing a couple years of college before they decided on the Navy it floors me that he is doing as well as he is. I know there will be ups and downs and there are areas he won't be as good at but right this very minute I'm just proud.
Jun 25, 2020