Thanks lemonelephant! I am still learning so much! Never had any Navy experience before! She was really excited! Goes for her first leadership meeting today! I am so proud of my girl!
Patriciab~ My son is leaving May 23rd as well. The last few weeks he's been in DEP I have been strong, and focused, now I'm starting to tear up as it so quickly approaching.
melipepper, please resist the urge to send anything that is NOT on the list for the wallet!! When my nephew joined 3 years ago, my sister sent him with enough shampoo, deodorant, etc to last 8 weeks, all of which was tossed! Obviously she was not on this forum!
I sent the thin black wallet with a business size card listing all the addresses & phone numbers my son would need. Be sure to include your cell/home numbers since many times we don't know key numbers that are stored in our cell phones, which he won't have.
He also brought a New Testament as Bibles are allowed. I sent 3 of my return address labels for him to use to address letters to me - this saves him time and effort on letter writing days. I didn't send all he would need as it would crowd the wallet. Now every 2nd letter I send 3 more labels.
We know that you want to enjoy your recruits travels through MEPS and Boot Camp. Recently, because of the software issue the various boot camp forum groups have slowed to a trickle. This isn't the way its suppose to be.
You should surround yourself so you can discuss with other families that have recruits in boot camp.
With that said, we are here to support the recruits and their family. We want you to enjoy your time while your sailor is at boot camp. Until the software gets fix, may I suggest these groups for you to join:
Posting to keep this group active...
“Deleting inactive members - The ad agency that handles N4M is in the process of updating the site. If you have not been active since 12/1/15 you will be deleted to make room for new members. You will be able to re-join. If you don't want to be deleted you will need to post something in any one of your groups to activate your account. They have already started deleting members.”
My daughters leave date was just moved up from April 11, 2017 to January 9, 2017. Ahhhh! I'm a basket case of emotions. I'm so excited for her but I will miss the heck out of her also. It's been just her and I for so long! Anyway I have read a lot and would like to think I'm pretty informed but any helpful hints/tips before she goes would be appreciated. Thanks,
If you have not yet joined Boot Camp Moms (and loved ones), now is a good time to do so (especially if you have a recruit at the RTC) and to begin checking out the Pages (found under the pictures of the Members) starting with OPSEC and PERSEC (Making Changes to Your Profile) (some of you have changes that you need to make--at least change 3; make change 4 if your profile pic includes your future Sailor or recruit) and then go on to Arrival and What Happens at the RTC.
Just want to introduce myself as I don't know where else to start! My name is Kimberly and my son swore in this week. He is off to boot on September 18 and I'm honestly feeling a bit lost as to how to feel...proud and scared and confused...as well as what to do!
New mom here learning to navigate the site and the experience! I've visited each of the suggested links below (thank you, lemonelephant!) My son leaves for bootcamp at the end of March. It just got "real" for him and he's nervous! (Ha! Welcome to my world, kid!) He decided to join at the age of 25. Not sure if this will serve him well or not so much, but he's signed! He needs to drop about 6 pounds by then. It's all the little naggy details that keep me up at night. Just wanted to introduce myself and say hello. Excuse me while I go cry in a corner somewhere. ;)
I hear you and echo your feelings. My oldest has enlisted and is scheduled to leave July 31. I think -no I know- I'm in denial. We can cry together....
New Navy Mom...to a daughter leaving for RTC in June. Proud, happy, and...needing a minute to process that she's a mature, capable adult and on her way in life. But that's what parenting is about, right? I know this is a good decision for her. And I'm happy to support and cheer her on.
Wishing you all well. Thank you for welcoming me
on here.
Thanks, ShawnMom! My son is 26 going in. He's been on his own for a few years now, so I feel that the separation will be less difficult for me than for some others. I already don't see him often. Can't say that I'm not a little concerned considering the new administration in DC, but I'm hoping the Navy just sticks to its values and elite training and all will be well.
New Navy Mom to an 18 year old son leaving for BC on March 1st. I am grateful for all of the information on these pages and proud of my son for making this commitment. That said....I'm looking forward to making the most of this time that I have with him at home, and trying not to be teary in front of him!
New Navy mom my son will be graduating high school in June then leaving for basic in July. I am very proud and supportive of him, but feel my emotions are going to start showing as July gets closer, what can I do?
Hi Dawn, It would be hard to not be emotional, between the pride of HS graduation to your son's transition into the life of a sailor! I'm trying to make memories with my son, and keep life "normal", as I know he doesn't need any extra stress.
ShawnMom, that is beautifully written, thank you so much for sharing! My son graduated in June and his RTC date was delayed to March as he worked to earn a SEAL contract. Bad news: he was hit by a car and spent months healing=no SEAL contract. Good news: he is now healthy, well, more mature, and we got to spend valuable time together and grow closer. I truly feel as though he was called to serve in the Navy and my support for him is unwaivering, but as the date approaches I know that my boy is becoming a young man and that this phase in our lives is short lived. So yes, I will pour my heart out here where you all understand this experience. It is so very different than sending my daughter off to college!!!
My daughter's boyfriend leaves in 9 days. He was delayed once, from July to Feb. While he is not my child, he has lived with us for over 2 years. The story with his own parents is complicated. They are involved, but they have chosen not to make a place for him in their own homes. So, he is like my son. I'm excited and scared for him, but I know he's chosen the right path for himself. Even if he and my daughter do not stay together as a couple, we will always support him and be there.
Hi...I'm a newbie with a ds that just took his Picat, scored well and now is waiting to go to MEPS...he wants to go asap but his recruiter said that they are waiting for another recruit...anyone know how long of a wait this can be?
My son APDE was sworn in yesterday. He will graduate in May and the will begin boot camp on August 15, 2017. Although I am extremely proud I worry. I believe he has made the right decision but have heard so many things that I am conflicted as to whether he is prepared for RTC and what is ahead for him. I pray for maturity and strength for him. I want to help him succeed and any advice on how I can do this without stressing him or myself out.
Everyone, Make it a habit to check your My Page because you may have comments from Members and not even know it if you have the notifications turned off for comments on your My Page. To reply to someone who leaves a comment on your My Page, click on "Comment Back" or "View Thread" (you will have to do that if the person has their profile set to "Just My Friends") below the comment. Also check in the upper left to see if you have Friend requests or any new messages in your Inbox.
I'm a new Navy Mom to a 17 yr Old son who is currently in DEP. he will be leaving for boot camp sometime in the summer. I'm getting emotional and I'm wondering how other moms handled the separation.
Nukemom, I'm in the same boat as you. My youngest, 19, swore in back in Sept or so. He leaves in June and reality has sunk in now that he leaves in just a few months. I'm so very proud of his decision and I know this will be so very good for him, but every night when he hugs me good night I cry. I try to hide it as I don't want him to feel any emotional burden but he just laughs at me and tells me I'm silly when he catches me which actually makes me feel better because we can laugh about it. I think I've come to the realization it's the fear of the unknown that has me on such a rollercoaster. The not knowing when I'll hear from him or see him again. So I try to soak up ad much info here as I can and pray.
I also stay in touch with friends who have kids enlisted. It helps knowing I'm not the only one feeling like I do. It's definitely not easy but I think, hope and pray once he leaves it'll become a little easier because we are no longer in a waiting pattern.
I've been reading the comments and reliving those same feelings. My son went off to boot camp last April and it was the hardest thing ever to watch him leave, him all hopeful and proud and me all sad and fearful he wouldn't make it. I bit back the words several several times "Are you sure you want to do this?" Because I needed to respect his decision as a newly minted young man. You wait for that 15 second call from boot camp "Mom, I made it. I'm fine." And then for that call mid-boot camp that most RDCs allow the recruits to make. Then you wait for that call "I'm a sailor!" And in the middle of it all, you write letters and pray. My son is now finishing up A school and has thrived in the Navy world. The structure is exactly what he needs to be successful. He is growing up and becoming mature and he is actually studying and doing very well in school. HE made this decision and has the motivation to make it be a successful one. He came home at Christmas and it was SO good to see him. Our relationship is still intact, something I worried about when he left for boot camp. He still makes me laugh and still aggravates me :). Hang in there, mamas! Your boys will always be your boys, just grown up and proud young sailors!
Thanks DonnaCatLover9! Your words were a comfort. My son is at RTC now. We are just finishing week 3 and I am anxiously awaiting that second call! I have always encouraged my son to follow his dreams, but inside I had this fear that our relationship would change and that closeness would disappear. Your words were a comfort. Thank you!
Hi all...it is so helpful to read all these encouraging comments! I'm a new Navy mom. My son swore in on Monday, and will be leaving in September for BC. I'm so excited for him, but also incredibly sad that he's leaving! I have a feeling these next few months are going to be quite a roller coaster.
We spent our day at MEPS yesterday, and our SR flew out yesterday afternoon. He was completely ready to go, and we were soooo proud of him. My planning for our visit to see his PIR is what will keep us going, and writing letters. In this day of constant communication, the silence is hard. I'm thankful every day for this site.
My son just left yesterday for RTC and I'm a basket case! I miss him terribly and think this is the worst time of my life. I have three sons and he is my youngest. You'd think I'd be ok, he went away to college, but at least there I could go see him and talk to him! Not looking forward to being a navy mom.
Sandrab, I totally understand. I was feeling the same almost one year ago when my son left for RTC. He also had gone away to college and then decided to join the Navy. But my son is thriving which makes me so happy and I know your son will thrive also. I made a point of NOT telling him how much I missed him in the letters I wrote while he had no electronics but I did tell him how proud I was of him and how I knew he could do this. I also wrote out my feelings of grief in a journal so I could get it out. I did not want to be a Navy mom either but now I am a proud Navy mom and look forward to the times I get to spend with my sailor. Hang in there - it does get better.
Thank you for all the supportive comments! It is so great to have somewhere to vent right now. Husbands can only do so much! I know everyday it will get easier. I am very happy for my son because he is fulfilling his dream. I just have to keep telling this to myself!
Butterfly Mom and blackbirdmom and friends, My daughter and I dropped my son off at the hotel tonight, and tomorrow he will be sworn in at MEPS and then fly to RTC. My daughter and I cried together as I drove her back to her college and my heart is in my throat. I am so very proud of my son, but my world is so quiet without him here. I am grateful that this group is so supportive.
@PT mom - that first couple of days were the hardest, but it does get easier. I still had the younger kids at home, but the absence of our SR was felt. There are small milestones along the way, such as getting that extremely short phone call, then "the box" and then the form letter. The thing that helped the most was the first letter and the first real phone call. Before you know it, your seeing that your SR has gotten through the first week or two, and you are beginning to finalize plans for PIR. I agree with others about writing every day. I also will cut out funny stories from the newspaper, and make a copy, then write my letter on the back of it. Or I will print out stories about his favorite sports teams off. And posting here also helps. Hugs to you.
Yes totally agree with blackbirdmom. It does get easier. I honestly think the anticipation of them leaving is the worst. I do want to mention that getting the "box" was an emotional hit for me. It was like he had stepped out of his former clothes and former self and put it in the box. I needed to journal about that.
Thank you for your support. My SR is on a plane right now on his way to RTC and the house is so very quiet! I am so proud of his choice to enter the Navy and so excited to communicate with him through this journey and to celebrate with him in 8-9 weeks.
We are at the hotel! She swears in tomorrow and flies to RTC! I hope we can sit with her at the airport! We are so proud and excited and nervous...and a little bit sad.
MainemomJulie - Just checking in on you. I'm going to go through this in about a week and it's now been a few days for you and just wanting you to know that I'm thinking of you and your daughter.
Hello, I am new to this group. My son just enlisted a few weeks ago, but doesn't go to boot camp until November. I thought I would use this time to learn everything I can about the Navy, and what life will be like for him.
ShawnMom and Teachermomto2, Thanks for the welcome! There is so much to learn! I have been reading as much on here as I can, and hopefully I will be a little better prepared when my son leaves.
MomOf3 (Dena)
Thanks lemonelephant! I am still learning so much! Never had any Navy experience before! She was really excited! Goes for her first leadership meeting today! I am so proud of my girl!
May 5, 2016
Edwards19 ( Tricia )
Momof3 so much information on these sites, and great helpers that get us through it
May 5, 2016
lemonelephant
MomOf3, you are very welcome.
May 5, 2016
Patriciab
My son is leaving May 23rd. Anybody else?
May 15, 2016
lemonelephant
Patriciab, check in DEP-Leavin for bootcamp in May.
May 15, 2016
RMac
Patriciab~ My son is leaving May 23rd as well. The last few weeks he's been in DEP I have been strong, and focused, now I'm starting to tear up as it so quickly approaching.
May 18, 2016
lemonelephant
melipepper, the info you need is in Things to Do in the Last Month before Your Future Sailor Leaves for.... (That link is also on your My Page.)
May 18, 2016
RDRmom2016
melipepper, please resist the urge to send anything that is NOT on the list for the wallet!! When my nephew joined 3 years ago, my sister sent him with enough shampoo, deodorant, etc to last 8 weeks, all of which was tossed! Obviously she was not on this forum!
I sent the thin black wallet with a business size card listing all the addresses & phone numbers my son would need. Be sure to include your cell/home numbers since many times we don't know key numbers that are stored in our cell phones, which he won't have.
He also brought a New Testament as Bibles are allowed. I sent 3 of my return address labels for him to use to address letters to me - this saves him time and effort on letter writing days. I didn't send all he would need as it would crowd the wallet. Now every 2nd letter I send 3 more labels.
May 19, 2016
Craig
admin here -
Because of a software issue with NavyForMoms, they cannot accept new member in.
See here: http://navyformoms.com/forum/topics/attn-prospective-members
We know that you want to enjoy your recruits travels through MEPS and Boot Camp. Recently, because of the software issue the various boot camp forum groups have slowed to a trickle. This isn't the way its suppose to be.
You should surround yourself so you can discuss with other families that have recruits in boot camp.
With that said, we are here to support the recruits and their family. We want you to enjoy your time while your sailor is at boot camp. Until the software gets fix, may I suggest these groups for you to join:
Boot Camp -
PIR: 06/03/2016 TG 30 - 9 Divisions (203-210 and 930)
https://www.facebook.com/groups/pir06032016
PIR: 06/10/2016 TG 31 - 11 Divisions (211-220 and 931)
https://www.facebook.com/groups/pir06102016
PIR: 06/17/2016 TG 32 - 7 Divisions (221-226 and 932)
https://www.facebook.com/groups/pir06172016
PIR: 06/24/2016 TG 33 - 7 Divisions (227-232 and 933)
https://www.facebook.com/groups/pir06272016
PIR: 06/30/2016 TG 34 – 11 Divisions (233 and 242) and 934)
https://www.facebook.com/groups/pir06272016
PIR: 07/08/2016 TG 34 – xx Divisions (243 and TBD) and 935)
https://www.facebook.com/groups/pir07082016
PIR: 07/15/2016 TG 34 – xx Divisions (TBD and TBD) and 936)
https://www.facebook.com/groups/pir07152016
Great Family Facebook groups:
RTC Great Lakes - Learning Navy Boot Camp and DEP
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Rtcgreatlakes/
Navy Support Group for Parents and Family
https://www.facebook.com/groups/786122078090192/
May 19, 2016
Craig
“Deleting inactive members - The ad agency that handles N4M is in the process of updating the site. If you have not been active since 12/1/15 you will be deleted to make room for new members. You will be able to re-join. If you don't want to be deleted you will need to post something in any one of your groups to activate your account. They have already started deleting members.”
Dec 6, 2016
Klondo
My daughters leave date was just moved up from April 11, 2017 to January 9, 2017. Ahhhh! I'm a basket case of emotions. I'm so excited for her but I will miss the heck out of her also. It's been just her and I for so long! Anyway I have read a lot and would like to think I'm pretty informed but any helpful hints/tips before she goes would be appreciated. Thanks,
Dec 9, 2016
lemonelephant
If your future Sailor has yet to ship, then be sure to check out the discussion, Things to Do in the Last Month before Your Future Sailor Leaves for....
If you have not yet joined Boot Camp Moms (and loved ones), now is a good time to do so (especially if you have a recruit at the RTC) and to begin checking out the Pages (found under the pictures of the Members) starting with OPSEC and PERSEC (Making Changes to Your Profile) (some of you have changes that you need to make--at least change 3; make change 4 if your profile pic includes your future Sailor or recruit) and then go on to Arrival and What Happens at the RTC.
Dec 9, 2016
SpencersMom
Just want to introduce myself as I don't know where else to start! My name is Kimberly and my son swore in this week. He is off to boot on September 18 and I'm honestly feeling a bit lost as to how to feel...proud and scared and confused...as well as what to do!
Dec 17, 2016
StarChild (Ship9 Div007)
Jan 8, 2017
lemonelephant
StarChild, that is totally understandable. Welcome to the journey again.
Jan 9, 2017
Shelley (Doug's Mom)
New mom here learning to navigate the site and the experience! I've visited each of the suggested links below (thank you, lemonelephant!) My son leaves for bootcamp at the end of March. It just got "real" for him and he's nervous! (Ha! Welcome to my world, kid!) He decided to join at the age of 25. Not sure if this will serve him well or not so much, but he's signed! He needs to drop about 6 pounds by then. It's all the little naggy details that keep me up at night. Just wanted to introduce myself and say hello. Excuse me while I go cry in a corner somewhere. ;)
Jan 14, 2017
Mammagoose
Jan 14, 2017
Lisa-the-Grateful
Wishing you all well. Thank you for welcoming me
on here.
Jan 14, 2017
Shelley (Doug's Mom)
Thanks, ShawnMom! My son is 26 going in. He's been on his own for a few years now, so I feel that the separation will be less difficult for me than for some others. I already don't see him often. Can't say that I'm not a little concerned considering the new administration in DC, but I'm hoping the Navy just sticks to its values and elite training and all will be well.
Jan 15, 2017
PT mom
New Navy Mom to an 18 year old son leaving for BC on March 1st. I am grateful for all of the information on these pages and proud of my son for making this commitment. That said....I'm looking forward to making the most of this time that I have with him at home, and trying not to be teary in front of him!
Jan 20, 2017
Dawn
Jan 22, 2017
PT mom
Hi Dawn, It would be hard to not be emotional, between the pride of HS graduation to your son's transition into the life of a sailor! I'm trying to make memories with my son, and keep life "normal", as I know he doesn't need any extra stress.
Jan 23, 2017
PT mom
ShawnMom, that is beautifully written, thank you so much for sharing! My son graduated in June and his RTC date was delayed to March as he worked to earn a SEAL contract. Bad news: he was hit by a car and spent months healing=no SEAL contract. Good news: he is now healthy, well, more mature, and we got to spend valuable time together and grow closer. I truly feel as though he was called to serve in the Navy and my support for him is unwaivering, but as the date approaches I know that my boy is becoming a young man and that this phase in our lives is short lived. So yes, I will pour my heart out here where you all understand this experience. It is so very different than sending my daughter off to college!!!
Jan 23, 2017
blackbirdmom
My daughter's boyfriend leaves in 9 days. He was delayed once, from July to Feb. While he is not my child, he has lived with us for over 2 years. The story with his own parents is complicated. They are involved, but they have chosen not to make a place for him in their own homes. So, he is like my son. I'm excited and scared for him, but I know he's chosen the right path for himself. Even if he and my daughter do not stay together as a couple, we will always support him and be there.
Jan 27, 2017
acb2
Jan 27, 2017
Teachermomto2
Feb 1, 2017
ProudMom
My son APDE was sworn in yesterday. He will graduate in May and the will begin boot camp on August 15, 2017. Although I am extremely proud I worry. I believe he has made the right decision but have heard so many things that I am conflicted as to whether he is prepared for RTC and what is ahead for him. I pray for maturity and strength for him. I want to help him succeed and any advice on how I can do this without stressing him or myself out.
Feb 2, 2017
lemonelephant
Everyone, Make it a habit to check your My Page because you may have comments from Members and not even know it if you have the notifications turned off for comments on your My Page. To reply to someone who leaves a comment on your My Page, click on "Comment Back" or "View Thread" (you will have to do that if the person has their profile set to "Just My Friends") below the comment. Also check in the upper left to see if you have Friend requests or any new messages in your Inbox.
Feb 3, 2017
lemonelephant
If your future Sailor has yet to ship, then be sure to check out the discussion, Things to Do in the Last Month before Your Future Sailor Leaves for....
Feb 3, 2017
blackbirdmom
I agree totally with lemonelephant about the "Things to Do" discussion. I bet I've read it 20 times.
Feb 3, 2017
NukeMom
Feb 3, 2017
Sasysweet
I also stay in touch with friends who have kids enlisted. It helps knowing I'm not the only one feeling like I do. It's definitely not easy but I think, hope and pray once he leaves it'll become a little easier because we are no longer in a waiting pattern.
Feb 3, 2017
DonnaCatLover
Feb 3, 2017
IansMom
Feb 3, 2017
BaseballLover
Hi all...it is so helpful to read all these encouraging comments! I'm a new Navy mom. My son swore in on Monday, and will be leaving in September for BC. I'm so excited for him, but also incredibly sad that he's leaving! I have a feeling these next few months are going to be quite a roller coaster.
Feb 3, 2017
blackbirdmom
We spent our day at MEPS yesterday, and our SR flew out yesterday afternoon. He was completely ready to go, and we were soooo proud of him. My planning for our visit to see his PIR is what will keep us going, and writing letters. In this day of constant communication, the silence is hard. I'm thankful every day for this site.
Feb 7, 2017
ButterflyMom
Feb 23, 2017
lemonelephant
Sandrab, welcome to this next part of the journey. I left info on your My Page that will help you to know what is happening and what to expect.
Feb 24, 2017
DonnaCatLover
Feb 24, 2017
ButterflyMom
Thank you for all the supportive comments! It is so great to have somewhere to vent right now. Husbands can only do so much! I know everyday it will get easier. I am very happy for my son because he is fulfilling his dream. I just have to keep telling this to myself!
Feb 24, 2017
PT mom
Butterfly Mom and blackbirdmom and friends, My daughter and I dropped my son off at the hotel tonight, and tomorrow he will be sworn in at MEPS and then fly to RTC. My daughter and I cried together as I drove her back to her college and my heart is in my throat. I am so very proud of my son, but my world is so quiet without him here. I am grateful that this group is so supportive.
Feb 28, 2017
blackbirdmom
@PT mom - that first couple of days were the hardest, but it does get easier. I still had the younger kids at home, but the absence of our SR was felt. There are small milestones along the way, such as getting that extremely short phone call, then "the box" and then the form letter. The thing that helped the most was the first letter and the first real phone call. Before you know it, your seeing that your SR has gotten through the first week or two, and you are beginning to finalize plans for PIR. I agree with others about writing every day. I also will cut out funny stories from the newspaper, and make a copy, then write my letter on the back of it. Or I will print out stories about his favorite sports teams off. And posting here also helps. Hugs to you.
Mar 1, 2017
DonnaCatLover
Mar 1, 2017
PT mom
Thank you for your support. My SR is on a plane right now on his way to RTC and the house is so very quiet! I am so proud of his choice to enter the Navy and so excited to communicate with him through this journey and to celebrate with him in 8-9 weeks.
Mar 1, 2017
Wimom
Mar 2, 2017
MainemomJulie
Mar 7, 2017
CeCe
MainemomJulie - Just checking in on you. I'm going to go through this in about a week and it's now been a few days for you and just wanting you to know that I'm thinking of you and your daughter.
Mar 11, 2017
Twinmom7
Hello, I am new to this group. My son just enlisted a few weeks ago, but doesn't go to boot camp until November. I thought I would use this time to learn everything I can about the Navy, and what life will be like for him.
Mar 12, 2017
Teachermomto2
Mar 18, 2017
Twinmom7
ShawnMom and Teachermomto2, Thanks for the welcome! There is so much to learn! I have been reading as much on here as I can, and hopefully I will be a little better prepared when my son leaves.
Mar 19, 2017