Doing John Hopkins November 29th for my son with brain cancer. Anyone want to meet me for coffee in the morning? I can do several areas around Baltimore.
I got kicked out again - had to changed that darn password.
You know I think this makes it four times I had to do this.
I put the new password in my cub scout folder. Now watch, I will lose that too.
Pictures !!!! Oh Maggs, what talent. I want to purchase some for my walls. You just take pictures with emotions. Such a talent. Thanks for sharing.
Kim - If I could get to you , I would. But I have marked the day and will be sending Healing Energy to him. It starts to ngith - Full Moon. gentle hugs
Really Blondie - you had to start the snow storm. And back to that Voo Doo Doll. Keep it handy - I might need it.
Yes - PINK. I get to purchase pink things!!!!! IN April, she will make her appearance. And this YaYa will taking time off to watch her until she can go to day care.
Wish I had more gossip. None - I am a dry tank here.
So Navy Pan Moms - get on her with some fun gossip!!!!
Happy Thanksgiving Japan Mums! Hope some of you got to share the holiday with your Sailor. Mine was absent from the Thanksgiving table again - this makes 4 Thanksgivings (and 4 Christmas) without him. He's due to leave Japan next year so hopefully we'll get to see him then. My college girl is home though which makes my youngest a bit happier - she's not liking being the only one at home - and at 12 to their 18 and 27...she has many years of being a lonely only ahead of her
T-Lynn: Welcome back. Computers can be troublesome at times. :)
NavyMum: Thanks for sharing. Makes me feel better knowing that my NavyMom Sisters know exactly what I'm going thru. My #3 son was missing from the table this Thanksgiving but his 14 yr old sister doesn't mind it yet. lol This is his first year in Japan. Kind of lonely for me as her other brothers 33 and 24 are out of the house as well. Glad your daughter made it home this year. Thank heaven for little mercies...
Yeah for Pink! A whole new Spoiling! A little jealous here that you get to take time off and watch her. So HAPPY for all of you but a tiny bit jealous. :)
Holidays are the hardest, everyone else's kids get to come home.....NavyMum when I hit that point I couldn't stand it any more. We flew to Japan to see our sailor daughter! My sailor is the youngest so no one at home to complain or make me miserable but no one to cling to either. Although my older children checked in and voiced how much they missed her, I'm sure not the same as what you 2 are going through.
Yesterday mornings temperature was our high for the day, started to rain, changed to ice, then snow. Today I think it's gonna all stay snow, not warm enuff to rain. but ice base, a little dangerous. Schools on 2 hour delay so had a calm drive to work, I have to go get my oil changed today of all days!!! Hoping they have the roads cleared by then, I don't mind the snow. We had no one home for Thanksgiving, but spent it with Hubby's 10 siblings, spouses and children and grand children. As always LOTS of people and LITTLE ONES. Very noisy! Still hoping I get to see my Angels for Christmas. Command hasn't okayed leave yet :( Waiting for Joe to get back to the States. Hope is what we live on. but hate to hope too much....I've had plenty of disappointments in the last 11 years, 3 months and 12 days. (but who's counting)
Thanks Blondie - I would love to visit him in Japan but we simply can't afford it - not with one still at home and one at University....we're barely making ends meet as it is and airfare to Japan is so expensive...$1500/person last I checked :(
I understand, I used a credit card! but she was my baby, We had 2 in college also but nothing was keeping me from my baby! We paid 1830 per ticket but we went over the Holiday, not a smart choice BUT a needed one! We've never regretted it. We're both working, past retirement because we can't afford to retire! So I get the pay check to pay check thing.
@Blondie - no credit cards here (which has its pros and cons). I'm a sahm so we're a one-income family (and for a variety of reasons - including my health - we'll stay one-income) which makes it harder to come up with extra money (DH is salary so no OT).
DS is due to PCS in the spring so we're hopeful to have some time with him then.
I know it's not feasible for everyone. And I'm Thankful my husband was understanding. Hang in there. I sometimes wish we didn't have C,Cards but they do come in handy when the car breaks down, needed a new furnace, roof and such. We only use them for emergencies. But I respect that you juggle without.
Do you get to face time him at all? I remember the years of waiting for e-mails, text and those far to few calls. But I also remember Nam and snail mail. :( I'm sure he misses you just as much. HUGS
facetime no but FB chat yes. And he's pretty good about sending photos of his adventures. (not so good about sending photos of himself).
DH was Army when we were dating and stationed overseas (I was stateside in college) so yes - I remember snail mail also and very very rare very very expensive phone calls.
Hahaha, I always remind myself how far we've come. I HATE technology, except when it helps with the kids. LOL I hear men aren't as good communicating as women, my boys don't! But others do, sometimes it's availability also. I use to send my daughter text, e-mails, phone messages Every day so when she got back to safety she'd be bombarded with Love. LOL. Now with my SIL I send something about once a week. I don't want to be the clingy mom. My nephews 1-2 times a week, but I've known them all their lives! Shhh, (I still cry in the shower sometimes.)
No - Have not had the news on all day. Will check about the Marines. Hoping they are found. SAFE!
Thanksgiving was quiet. Vic's parents came over and Nic my oldest son order dinner for us. You know that was nice. And it did taste good. Everyone here just needed a break - have nothing to do break!
My sailor's ship is busy with inspections and getting underway - so I sit by the phone. Its that waiting game again.
And our Christmas give to him will have to wait too. Our garage door spring JUST had to break at ! AM on December 1st. So the money I had - gone.But we did get the tree up . My grandson was refusing to pick up his toys though. And not even Elf on teh Shelf could get him to budge. So I called a fellow club member who looks like SANTA !!!! Santa called and told Riker that Elf had called him. How sad that Riker would not pick up his toys. Looks like his name would be placed on the naughty list. At that moment - my grandson jumps up - places his hands on each side of his face and yells - I am picking them up! Santa said good and that he will call again. Gee - What Santa can so . And guess who forgot to video all that ? Right - me. I was laughing to hard.
Well, I hope all is going well for all. Take care. hugs
OH, THAT is to Precious! Let us know if he continues.
I got my 1st Christmas Present and it's a BIG one but can't tell anyone. So of course I came here to spill my guts. LOL
My Eldest daughter is PREGNANT!!!!!! They've been trying for years and years, many specialist.....miscarriages….They are waiting for 2nd trimester to tell others. She said she couldn't hold it in any longer, she'd not been calling me or cutting the calls very short because she was afraid she'd blurt it out. LOL She was wearing her Candy Cane leggings and a shirt that said Miracles Do Happen! Well, we both thought maybe they'd have good news for Christmas but neither one of us wanted to ask! So just before Church she told her husband to give me the pictures they had printed out for us so she wouldn't forget....it was the Sonogram! Tears, HAPPY tears all weekend!
too funny about Riker @T-Lynn. Sorry about the garage door :(
@Blondie - congratulations and best wishes to your daughter! Wonderful news for her (and for you)
DD18 is home from college for about a month - DD12 is over the moon excited about that. Only missing Sailor DS27 - hopefully he'll be able to visit in the spring. He's looking at taking leave over the holidays and visiting a friend stationed at Yokosuka (he's in Okinawa).
Gentle hugs NavyMom. I know the feeling of sailor not coming home. Several of us here went through 5 Christmas' with no sailor. But when that phone rang - we KNEW who it was. Remember - YOU get to answer first. Just knock anyone out of the way. That's a rule here.
Blondie - YIppee!!!! I am thinking PINK for you. Ok Navy Pan Moms - baby pool time. Get your guesses ready to post.
Blondie's new grand baby: I believe its a girl. 8 pounds - 2 oz. 19 inches long. Strawberry blonde hair - blue eyes. And will arrive May 12th, 2019 - Mother's Day. Ok start posting!
As for me: WE all know I will be blessed with a new Grand baby girl. Her name is Emma Rose. But I do not think it will be April 26th as the doctor said. Now my son - the father - said oh yes it will be that day. Naturally its his birthday! No - I say it will May 5th, 2019. She will be 20 inches long, 7 pounds and 4 oz. Reddish brown hair with green eyes. Ok - start posting your guesses.
Can share - sailor called last Saturday and talked for over 3 hours. He was so happy - his ship passed an inspection - finally. Reason so happy - that ship had not passed that very same inspection for 3 years! Now I am not bragging - but I believe it was due to my sailor's great leadership skills. But who am I - just a Navy Mom. Sailor was proud of the young sailors under his watch, how they all worked together as a team. So did the entire ship. It was so good to hear him say - he was proud of the ship he serves.
Well, sorry this is short. Just wanted to share some gossip. Which leaves my Gossip Tank on low. So - YOU know who you all are - get on here and share !!!!!
Can any mom tell me what kind of snacks i can send my sailor in Okinawa. His 20th birthday is Dec 23rd and he wants jerky and cookies. What kind of food from California can send?
You can send almost anything if you pack it well enough. Ziploc bags are your friend, double bag everything and do not put toiletries in the same box with food. The scent can migrate. Meat products are specifically prohibited for Japan, but just put "snacks" on the customs form and it will be fine.
Hello Japan Moms! I have been reading but not posting. Usually checking on my phone and not having the time to respond. I saw Anti M’s post about how and what to pack and I agree with everything she said. I just sent my son a Hanukkah care package which also included dental floss (I am a dental hygienist so I ALWAYS send him floss!) among his snacks and new workout shorts. I wrote ‘snacks’ on the customs form and he got them with no problem. I had previously sent 2 boxes which included a battery-operated toothbrush and had no problems sending them. I know....there is a dental theme here. His buddies always laugh at the combinations of things that I send including something dental with every package. He tells them “My mom is all about the teeth, all the time!”
I had a chance to talk with him for over an hour last weekend and he shared with me that he passed his ‘murder boards’ and will be awarded the FMF Corpsman pin. BIG accomplishment and I am so proud of him. It was one of his goals when he joined the Navy. We had met an FMF Corpsman when my son was in DEP. Impressive man in every way. My son didn’t tell me but he did not miss a single question on the 2-day orals. My wonderful DIL told me that. He is so humble about these things. He told his CO he didn’t want a big ceremony in front of the battalion. He said a simple ceremony in the CO’s office would be fine. I told him to at least have someone take a picture and email/text it to me!
Congrats to Blondie’s grandbaby to be! Whoohoo!!
I know the holiday season can bring mixed blessings. The last time my Corpsman was home at this time of year was 4 years ago. He invited 3 of his buddies from high school over to light Hanukkah candles and eat latkes (potato pancakes). I made 6 dozen latkes with no leftovers. Boy could those guys pack it away!! It was so much fun. Eight years ago the day after Thanksgiving that my mom passed. It was 9 years ago this month that a dear friend and rabbi drowned while on vacation with his family in Mexico. I wish all of you love, peace, blessings and gentle hugs as we navigate these waters.
I wish I would have checked before I sent a package to Japan, It is still in transit and I am pretty sure I put beef jerky on the form. What will happen now?
DramaSoul, I had to laugh at your post, I know what you mean my daughter was always telling them I was a health freak. LOL But some of the request I got! Oh how I miss those days. But So EXCITED to have them here with us this year. 8 years without! I'm gonna make every second count and hope to remember to take pictures.
I've sent many things all over the world. My sailors now never hand over a pringles can without looking inside. LOL
Congrats to your son. So PROUD of these kids! I know they are men and women but to us oldies they are still kids. I hope you get your picture, we got/have very few of our daughter because of what she did.
Hugs to all those who won't see their Sailors. My Sailor use to tell me "Mom, someone has to take the watch." It'll be me this year, Watching them sleep. :) those who has known me for years, KNOWS this is true!
Remember to light your Blue Candles and say an extra Prayer for all our servicemen and women and heir Families.
@charlijo, the package will probably be just fine. Fingers crossed. While I know they can take open it and take things out, it is highly unlikely for that to happen. Worst case, they send it back to you.
Hey i shipped a real Pee-Wee pumpkin from the garden last Halloween! Remember I shared that I placed it inside a freezer zip lock bag. Now the package did take a detour of 3 months to get to him - BUT it got there! And that pumpkin was totally liquid by the time he opened that package. Honest, that zip lock bag held closed!!!!
Know as I recall, Zip Lock bags not only held food, but small items. Plus, if shoes were sent - stuff the shoes with items. Now the Pringles can - was that for cookies?
For fun - if you have a pet - send a package with items only from the pet and don't forget to take dictation for the Pet and put that letter in too. My sailor loves getting mail/packages from the pet turtle.
And when teh post office tells you to stuff those FPO AP Boxes - STUFF them!
Wishing all a wonderful first Day of Winter. Blessings of the Yule. Hope all are ready for the holidays.
Ahh, sometimes cookies and treats, sometimes extras...not gonna incriminate myself. 1 year I sent frozen strawberries to the sandpit. My packages were getting there in 4 days, and sailor had been there almost 2 years and was missing fresh garden things....I froze them and put them in a foam cooler … that package took 2 weeks! she got called to mail room for that, (thankfully we sent many boxes every week so they knew us) 1 of the bags leaked! But she said they enjoyed the others, Best wine they ever had! Hahahaha I can say, I NEVER did that again!
Everyone made it home safely here and so far a Complete Success. Everyone was so Excited and Happy to see our kids and grandkids! Connor and Tahlia are Enjoying their time together OoH and Ahhed over each others presents, played together nicely. No dog fights! Hubby and I are both working today so gives Sisters and their husbands time together and with the kids. then busy, busy again. Christmas Eve. Supper, Midnight Mass, After party (we put baby Jesus in all the cribs and set up toys for kids, those that don't get wrapped) Bruch and then Oldest daughter leaves and we start cooking for my family Christmas (Dad and brother/sisters....) Supper. Then 26th up and heading to Zoo (11/2 hour drive) to see eldest son and DIL and do the zoo, then zoo lights and back home. Then SADLY back to work. But Navy family will be staying on for a few extra days so I can get Tahlia Lovin! I'm already tired and sore. But smiling the whole time LOL MERRY CHRISTMAS
We just had a lovely light snowfall here. I had to put mu little old tortie kitty Punkin down on Saturday, her hind legs quit working. She was very nearly 20, had been with my dad when he passed, stayed with MyLarry when he was ill in bed. I am glad we could give her a nice kitty life, she was a good companion.
Blondie - as usually, I am just tired reading ALL you do. Congrats on the Baby!! Love how they told you! Where do you get something like this?
Maggs - how sweet. Hope your Christmas was loving. How was Angel teh Devil Cat? Have not hear any stories of late. Shark - she dictated another letter and asked me to include a picture of her with Santa in the Christmas cards. Oh that turtle.
Ant M - wishing teh New year to be sweet and loving for you.
I need to split - paper work to finish - you know al the stuff I said I would do later. Well, its later.
I'm truly exhausted! Almost glad to come to work except I had to leave that precious baby! It's okay tho cause she came to my work to see me, less then 2 hours in. LOL I guess they're missing me too. I'm getting to old for all these festivities! Lots of people, noise and dogs. But smiling the WHOLE time. Hoping to slow it down this weekend, we'll see how that goes?!!
Hope you all had a Blessed Christmas. Have a Safe New year. Hugs to all.
T-Lynn, they ordered them special made, I think it's called Life Lottery.
Oh- ok thanks. Never knew where to look for those personal lottery tickets.
Fingers crossed things slow down for you. i sure felt strange typing those words out. for some reason - Slow Down and Blondie just do not fit together.
Gentle hugs Blondie.
OK - time to check in! You know who you are. Gossip tank is low, but really my heart is missing hearing from you.
I am just a stalker, I love reading the messages, but do not get on very often to chat back! My son is now in Jacksonville, at least for the next 4 years, but thinks he will end up back in Japan eventually, not alot of options for his rate, but I have both of my sailors working out of the same hospital for a while, sure makes travel much easier! Happy Holidays my "Japan Mom" friends!
Bahahaha T-Lynn. I'm hoping my part-time help gets back from FL this weekend and can work a couple days next week for me so I can cuddle that fast growing baby. 20 months already!
all my company has gone. We spent 2 days washing and cleaning and one day resting. 5 dogs, 7 adults and 2 kids can make a major mess! we had kept up with the daily things like dishes and laundry, no one went hungry. LOL but all the beds had to be washed, carpet cleaned, floors mopped.....my dog does not shed so having 4 dogs that do is a eye opener for me! Plus we had rain and mud....Yuck! I did end up reinjuring my shoulder and back/hip but well worth it!!! Almost caught up at work and trying to plan our next trip. We have 2 weddings planned for this year and 3 babies. So gonna be another BUSY one.
Hope everyone is doing well and have heard/seen their kids. HUGS
yesterday was high of 50, this morning 29, windy and snowing(wind chill 11) they told us no accumulation that's a lie! Temps. are suppose to drop all day and now accumulation is Anyone's guess! gotta love our weathermen.
Check in please, let us know how you're weathering the storms. (pun intended) LOL
Kim
Doing John Hopkins November 29th for my son with brain cancer. Anyone want to meet me for coffee in the morning? I can do several areas around Baltimore.
Nov 4, 2018
maggs
Thank you Kim, you are very kind. Would love to meet up with you.
Nov 4, 2018
Kim
Maggs, not sure of your work schedule. But, we have afternoon appointments. I hate 95, and would love to detour for coffee.
Anyone else like to meet?
Nov 4, 2018
Blondie
Love the pictures!
Nov 9, 2018
Blondie
Nov 9, 2018
Blondie
Nov 9, 2018
Navymom2
Brrrrrr... pass the hot chocalet please!
Nov 9, 2018
T-Lynn
HI
I made it back!
I got kicked out again - had to changed that darn password.
You know I think this makes it four times I had to do this.
I put the new password in my cub scout folder. Now watch, I will lose that too.
Pictures !!!! Oh Maggs, what talent. I want to purchase some for my walls. You just take pictures with emotions. Such a talent. Thanks for sharing.
Kim - If I could get to you , I would. But I have marked the day and will be sending Healing Energy to him. It starts to ngith - Full Moon. gentle hugs
Really Blondie - you had to start the snow storm. And back to that Voo Doo Doll. Keep it handy - I might need it.
Yes - PINK. I get to purchase pink things!!!!! IN April, she will make her appearance. And this YaYa will taking time off to watch her until she can go to day care.
Wish I had more gossip. None - I am a dry tank here.
So Navy Pan Moms - get on her with some fun gossip!!!!
Love you all hugs
Nov 23, 2018
NavyMum
Happy Thanksgiving Japan Mums! Hope some of you got to share the holiday with your Sailor. Mine was absent from the Thanksgiving table again - this makes 4 Thanksgivings (and 4 Christmas) without him. He's due to leave Japan next year so hopefully we'll get to see him then. My college girl is home though which makes my youngest a bit happier - she's not liking being the only one at home - and at 12 to their 18 and 27...she has many years of being a lonely only ahead of her
Nov 23, 2018
Navymom2
T-Lynn: Welcome back. Computers can be troublesome at times. :)
NavyMum: Thanks for sharing. Makes me feel better knowing that my NavyMom Sisters know exactly what I'm going thru. My #3 son was missing from the table this Thanksgiving but his 14 yr old sister doesn't mind it yet. lol This is his first year in Japan. Kind of lonely for me as her other brothers 33 and 24 are out of the house as well. Glad your daughter made it home this year. Thank heaven for little mercies...
Nov 24, 2018
NavyMum
((((Hugs)))) @Navymom2
Nov 24, 2018
Blondie
Yeah for Pink! A whole new Spoiling! A little jealous here that you get to take time off and watch her. So HAPPY for all of you but a tiny bit jealous. :)
Holidays are the hardest, everyone else's kids get to come home.....NavyMum when I hit that point I couldn't stand it any more. We flew to Japan to see our sailor daughter! My sailor is the youngest so no one at home to complain or make me miserable but no one to cling to either. Although my older children checked in and voiced how much they missed her, I'm sure not the same as what you 2 are going through.
Yesterday mornings temperature was our high for the day, started to rain, changed to ice, then snow. Today I think it's gonna all stay snow, not warm enuff to rain. but ice base, a little dangerous. Schools on 2 hour delay so had a calm drive to work, I have to go get my oil changed today of all days!!! Hoping they have the roads cleared by then, I don't mind the snow. We had no one home for Thanksgiving, but spent it with Hubby's 10 siblings, spouses and children and grand children. As always LOTS of people and LITTLE ONES. Very noisy! Still hoping I get to see my Angels for Christmas. Command hasn't okayed leave yet :( Waiting for Joe to get back to the States. Hope is what we live on. but hate to hope too much....I've had plenty of disappointments in the last 11 years, 3 months and 12 days. (but who's counting)
HUGS to all
Nov 27, 2018
NavyMum
Thanks Blondie - I would love to visit him in Japan but we simply can't afford it - not with one still at home and one at University....we're barely making ends meet as it is and airfare to Japan is so expensive...$1500/person last I checked :(
Nov 27, 2018
Blondie
I understand, I used a credit card! but she was my baby, We had 2 in college also but nothing was keeping me from my baby! We paid 1830 per ticket but we went over the Holiday, not a smart choice BUT a needed one! We've never regretted it. We're both working, past retirement because we can't afford to retire! So I get the pay check to pay check thing.
HUGS
Nov 27, 2018
NavyMum
@Blondie - no credit cards here (which has its pros and cons). I'm a sahm so we're a one-income family (and for a variety of reasons - including my health - we'll stay one-income) which makes it harder to come up with extra money (DH is salary so no OT).
DS is due to PCS in the spring so we're hopeful to have some time with him then.
Nov 27, 2018
Blondie
I know it's not feasible for everyone. And I'm Thankful my husband was understanding. Hang in there. I sometimes wish we didn't have C,Cards but they do come in handy when the car breaks down, needed a new furnace, roof and such. We only use them for emergencies. But I respect that you juggle without.
Do you get to face time him at all? I remember the years of waiting for e-mails, text and those far to few calls. But I also remember Nam and snail mail. :( I'm sure he misses you just as much. HUGS
Nov 28, 2018
NavyMum
facetime no but FB chat yes. And he's pretty good about sending photos of his adventures. (not so good about sending photos of himself).
DH was Army when we were dating and stationed overseas (I was stateside in college) so yes - I remember snail mail also and very very rare very very expensive phone calls.
Nov 28, 2018
NavyMum
and I do write letters to DS every week - he apparently hasn't mastered the skill of writing any himself, lol
Nov 28, 2018
Blondie
Hahaha, I always remind myself how far we've come. I HATE technology, except when it helps with the kids. LOL I hear men aren't as good communicating as women, my boys don't! But others do, sometimes it's availability also. I use to send my daughter text, e-mails, phone messages Every day so when she got back to safety she'd be bombarded with Love. LOL. Now with my SIL I send something about once a week. I don't want to be the clingy mom. My nephews 1-2 times a week, but I've known them all their lives! Shhh, (I still cry in the shower sometimes.)
Nov 28, 2018
Blondie
Praying for the Marines that crashed earlier today. Anyone know anything new??? 2 found one declared dead, 5 missing.
Dec 6, 2018
Navymom2
Praying in agreement with you Blondie...
Dec 6, 2018
T-Lynn
HI
No - Have not had the news on all day. Will check about the Marines. Hoping they are found. SAFE!
Thanksgiving was quiet. Vic's parents came over and Nic my oldest son order dinner for us. You know that was nice. And it did taste good. Everyone here just needed a break - have nothing to do break!
My sailor's ship is busy with inspections and getting underway - so I sit by the phone. Its that waiting game again.
And our Christmas give to him will have to wait too. Our garage door spring JUST had to break at ! AM on December 1st. So the money I had - gone.But we did get the tree up . My grandson was refusing to pick up his toys though. And not even Elf on teh Shelf could get him to budge. So I called a fellow club member who looks like SANTA !!!! Santa called and told Riker that Elf had called him. How sad that Riker would not pick up his toys. Looks like his name would be placed on the naughty list. At that moment - my grandson jumps up - places his hands on each side of his face and yells - I am picking them up! Santa said good and that he will call again. Gee - What Santa can so . And guess who forgot to video all that ? Right - me. I was laughing to hard.
Well, I hope all is going well for all. Take care. hugs
Dec 6, 2018
Blondie
OH, THAT is to Precious! Let us know if he continues.
I got my 1st Christmas Present and it's a BIG one but can't tell anyone. So of course I came here to spill my guts. LOL
My Eldest daughter is PREGNANT!!!!!! They've been trying for years and years, many specialist.....miscarriages….They are waiting for 2nd trimester to tell others. She said she couldn't hold it in any longer, she'd not been calling me or cutting the calls very short because she was afraid she'd blurt it out. LOL She was wearing her Candy Cane leggings and a shirt that said Miracles Do Happen! Well, we both thought maybe they'd have good news for Christmas but neither one of us wanted to ask! So just before Church she told her husband to give me the pictures they had printed out for us so she wouldn't forget....it was the Sonogram! Tears, HAPPY tears all weekend!
Dec 10, 2018
NavyMum
too funny about Riker @T-Lynn. Sorry about the garage door :(
@Blondie - congratulations and best wishes to your daughter! Wonderful news for her (and for you)
DD18 is home from college for about a month - DD12 is over the moon excited about that. Only missing Sailor DS27 - hopefully he'll be able to visit in the spring. He's looking at taking leave over the holidays and visiting a friend stationed at Yokosuka (he's in Okinawa).
Dec 10, 2018
Navymom2
Thanks for sharing your Christmas stories Navy moms. :)
Blondie: Congratulations ~ happy for your family. :)
Dec 10, 2018
T-Lynn
HI
Gentle hugs NavyMom. I know the feeling of sailor not coming home. Several of us here went through 5 Christmas' with no sailor. But when that phone rang - we KNEW who it was. Remember - YOU get to answer first. Just knock anyone out of the way. That's a rule here.
Blondie - YIppee!!!! I am thinking PINK for you. Ok Navy Pan Moms - baby pool time. Get your guesses ready to post.
Blondie's new grand baby: I believe its a girl. 8 pounds - 2 oz. 19 inches long. Strawberry blonde hair - blue eyes. And will arrive May 12th, 2019 - Mother's Day. Ok start posting!
As for me: WE all know I will be blessed with a new Grand baby girl. Her name is Emma Rose. But I do not think it will be April 26th as the doctor said. Now my son - the father - said oh yes it will be that day. Naturally its his birthday! No - I say it will May 5th, 2019. She will be 20 inches long, 7 pounds and 4 oz. Reddish brown hair with green eyes. Ok - start posting your guesses.
Can share - sailor called last Saturday and talked for over 3 hours. He was so happy - his ship passed an inspection - finally. Reason so happy - that ship had not passed that very same inspection for 3 years! Now I am not bragging - but I believe it was due to my sailor's great leadership skills. But who am I - just a Navy Mom. Sailor was proud of the young sailors under his watch, how they all worked together as a team. So did the entire ship. It was so good to hear him say - he was proud of the ship he serves.
Well, sorry this is short. Just wanted to share some gossip. Which leaves my Gossip Tank on low. So - YOU know who you all are - get on here and share !!!!!
Hugs
Dec 12, 2018
mommers8
Can any mom tell me what kind of snacks i can send my sailor in Okinawa. His 20th birthday is Dec 23rd and he wants jerky and cookies. What kind of food from California can send?
Dec 19, 2018
Anti M
You can send almost anything if you pack it well enough. Ziploc bags are your friend, double bag everything and do not put toiletries in the same box with food. The scent can migrate. Meat products are specifically prohibited for Japan, but just put "snacks" on the customs form and it will be fine.
https://pe.usps.com/IMM_Archive/HTML/IMM_Archive_20060108/imm/immic...
Dec 19, 2018
DramaSoul
Hello Japan Moms! I have been reading but not posting. Usually checking on my phone and not having the time to respond. I saw Anti M’s post about how and what to pack and I agree with everything she said. I just sent my son a Hanukkah care package which also included dental floss (I am a dental hygienist so I ALWAYS send him floss!) among his snacks and new workout shorts. I wrote ‘snacks’ on the customs form and he got them with no problem. I had previously sent 2 boxes which included a battery-operated toothbrush and had no problems sending them. I know....there is a dental theme here. His buddies always laugh at the combinations of things that I send including something dental with every package. He tells them “My mom is all about the teeth, all the time!”
I had a chance to talk with him for over an hour last weekend and he shared with me that he passed his ‘murder boards’ and will be awarded the FMF Corpsman pin. BIG accomplishment and I am so proud of him. It was one of his goals when he joined the Navy. We had met an FMF Corpsman when my son was in DEP. Impressive man in every way. My son didn’t tell me but he did not miss a single question on the 2-day orals. My wonderful DIL told me that. He is so humble about these things. He told his CO he didn’t want a big ceremony in front of the battalion. He said a simple ceremony in the CO’s office would be fine. I told him to at least have someone take a picture and email/text it to me!
Congrats to Blondie’s grandbaby to be! Whoohoo!!
I know the holiday season can bring mixed blessings. The last time my Corpsman was home at this time of year was 4 years ago. He invited 3 of his buddies from high school over to light Hanukkah candles and eat latkes (potato pancakes). I made 6 dozen latkes with no leftovers. Boy could those guys pack it away!! It was so much fun. Eight years ago the day after Thanksgiving that my mom passed. It was 9 years ago this month that a dear friend and rabbi drowned while on vacation with his family in Mexico. I wish all of you love, peace, blessings and gentle hugs as we navigate these waters.
Dec 19, 2018
charlijo
I wish I would have checked before I sent a package to Japan, It is still in transit and I am pretty sure I put beef jerky on the form. What will happen now?
Dec 19, 2018
Blondie
DramaSoul, I had to laugh at your post, I know what you mean my daughter was always telling them I was a health freak. LOL But some of the request I got! Oh how I miss those days. But So EXCITED to have them here with us this year. 8 years without! I'm gonna make every second count and hope to remember to take pictures.
I've sent many things all over the world. My sailors now never hand over a pringles can without looking inside. LOL
Congrats to your son. So PROUD of these kids! I know they are men and women but to us oldies they are still kids. I hope you get your picture, we got/have very few of our daughter because of what she did.
Hugs to all those who won't see their Sailors. My Sailor use to tell me "Mom, someone has to take the watch." It'll be me this year, Watching them sleep. :) those who has known me for years, KNOWS this is true!
Remember to light your Blue Candles and say an extra Prayer for all our servicemen and women and heir Families.
Dec 19, 2018
Anti M
@charlijo, the package will probably be just fine. Fingers crossed. While I know they can take open it and take things out, it is highly unlikely for that to happen. Worst case, they send it back to you.
Dec 20, 2018
Beachmomblue
The State I live in sends my sailor a christmas box every year and it always send some
Dec 20, 2018
T-Lynn
Dec 21, 2018
T-Lynn
HI
Hey i shipped a real Pee-Wee pumpkin from the garden last Halloween! Remember I shared that I placed it inside a freezer zip lock bag. Now the package did take a detour of 3 months to get to him - BUT it got there! And that pumpkin was totally liquid by the time he opened that package. Honest, that zip lock bag held closed!!!!
Know as I recall, Zip Lock bags not only held food, but small items. Plus, if shoes were sent - stuff the shoes with items. Now the Pringles can - was that for cookies?
For fun - if you have a pet - send a package with items only from the pet and don't forget to take dictation for the Pet and put that letter in too. My sailor loves getting mail/packages from the pet turtle.
And when teh post office tells you to stuff those FPO AP Boxes - STUFF them!
Wishing all a wonderful first Day of Winter. Blessings of the Yule. Hope all are ready for the holidays.
talk later hugs
Dec 21, 2018
Blondie
T-Lynn never found a box big enuff to fit me too!
Ahh, sometimes cookies and treats, sometimes extras...not gonna incriminate myself. 1 year I sent frozen strawberries to the sandpit. My packages were getting there in 4 days, and sailor had been there almost 2 years and was missing fresh garden things....I froze them and put them in a foam cooler … that package took 2 weeks! she got called to mail room for that, (thankfully we sent many boxes every week so they knew us) 1 of the bags leaked! But she said they enjoyed the others, Best wine they ever had! Hahahaha I can say, I NEVER did that again!
Dec 24, 2018
Blondie
Everyone made it home safely here and so far a Complete Success. Everyone was so Excited and Happy to see our kids and grandkids! Connor and Tahlia are Enjoying their time together OoH and Ahhed over each others presents, played together nicely. No dog fights! Hubby and I are both working today so gives Sisters and their husbands time together and with the kids. then busy, busy again. Christmas Eve. Supper, Midnight Mass, After party (we put baby Jesus in all the cribs and set up toys for kids, those that don't get wrapped) Bruch and then Oldest daughter leaves and we start cooking for my family Christmas (Dad and brother/sisters....) Supper. Then 26th up and heading to Zoo (11/2 hour drive) to see eldest son and DIL and do the zoo, then zoo lights and back home. Then SADLY back to work. But Navy family will be staying on for a few extra days so I can get Tahlia Lovin! I'm already tired and sore. But smiling the whole time LOL
MERRY CHRISTMAS
Dec 24, 2018
Blondie
Dec 24, 2018
Anti M
Aww, congrats on the baby!
We just had a lovely light snowfall here. I had to put mu little old tortie kitty Punkin down on Saturday, her hind legs quit working. She was very nearly 20, had been with my dad when he passed, stayed with MyLarry when he was ill in bed. I am glad we could give her a nice kitty life, she was a good companion.
Dec 24, 2018
maggs
Dec 25, 2018
T-Lynn
HI Everyone.
Blondie - as usually, I am just tired reading ALL you do. Congrats on the Baby!! Love how they told you! Where do you get something like this?
Maggs - how sweet. Hope your Christmas was loving. How was Angel teh Devil Cat? Have not hear any stories of late. Shark - she dictated another letter and asked me to include a picture of her with Santa in the Christmas cards. Oh that turtle.
Ant M - wishing teh New year to be sweet and loving for you.
I need to split - paper work to finish - you know al the stuff I said I would do later. Well, its later.
hugs all
Dec 26, 2018
Blondie
I'm truly exhausted! Almost glad to come to work except I had to leave that precious baby! It's okay tho cause she came to my work to see me, less then 2 hours in. LOL I guess they're missing me too. I'm getting to old for all these festivities! Lots of people, noise and dogs. But smiling the WHOLE time. Hoping to slow it down this weekend, we'll see how that goes?!!
Hope you all had a Blessed Christmas. Have a Safe New year. Hugs to all.
T-Lynn, they ordered them special made, I think it's called Life Lottery.
Dec 27, 2018
T-Lynn
HI
Oh- ok thanks. Never knew where to look for those personal lottery tickets.
Fingers crossed things slow down for you. i sure felt strange typing those words out. for some reason - Slow Down and Blondie just do not fit together.
Gentle hugs Blondie.
OK - time to check in! You know who you are. Gossip tank is low, but really my heart is missing hearing from you.
Hugs
Dec 27, 2018
Lauren - Ship 11 Div 317
I am just a stalker, I love reading the messages, but do not get on very often to chat back! My son is now in Jacksonville, at least for the next 4 years, but thinks he will end up back in Japan eventually, not alot of options for his rate, but I have both of my sailors working out of the same hospital for a while, sure makes travel much easier! Happy Holidays my "Japan Mom" friends!
Dec 27, 2018
Blondie
Wonderful news Lauren!! I'm Excited for you.
Bahahaha T-Lynn. I'm hoping my part-time help gets back from FL this weekend and can work a couple days next week for me so I can cuddle that fast growing baby. 20 months already!
Ugg month-ends then year-ends. Bah humbug!
Dec 27, 2018
Beachmomblue
Happy new year
Dec 31, 2018
T-Lynn
Hi
The year is ending
A lot we all here have shared
So glad I had your ears.
And looking forward to what we all will share
In this coming New Year
Happy New Year !!!! Hugs
Dec 31, 2018
Stillmybaby
HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE!
Jan 1, 2019
Blondie
Happy New Year to all
all my company has gone. We spent 2 days washing and cleaning and one day resting. 5 dogs, 7 adults and 2 kids can make a major mess! we had kept up with the daily things like dishes and laundry, no one went hungry. LOL but all the beds had to be washed, carpet cleaned, floors mopped.....my dog does not shed so having 4 dogs that do is a eye opener for me! Plus we had rain and mud....Yuck! I did end up reinjuring my shoulder and back/hip but well worth it!!! Almost caught up at work and trying to plan our next trip. We have 2 weddings planned for this year and 3 babies. So gonna be another BUSY one.
Hope everyone is doing well and have heard/seen their kids. HUGS
Jan 8, 2019
Blondie
yesterday was high of 50, this morning 29, windy and snowing(wind chill 11) they told us no accumulation that's a lie! Temps. are suppose to drop all day and now accumulation is Anyone's guess! gotta love our weathermen.
Check in please, let us know how you're weathering the storms. (pun intended) LOL
Jan 9, 2019