I can't believe it's been a year already!!! Love the news about the RV. My hubby and I are full-time Rvrs, spent all last year traveling the western US and then the last 6 months we've been wintering over in Jacksonville. We'll be leaving here in about 3 weeks and starting our travels all over the eastern US this year. Will end up heading for WA (where our son is getting transferred to) for a visit and then heading to southern CA for this coming winter. I highly recommend it if you get to travel often!!! Seeing our LOs is always the cherry on top!!!!
Wow thanks everyone. I'll get started by purchasing the box and slowly decorate and fill it up. It will be hard waiting to send though till week 9 , but I understand why!!!!! This really is motivating:)
I agree about your home state. Got to visit twice when my enlisted daughter was stationed threre. There are still several places I want to see so I'm hoping I get more time this time around!!!!!
That's awesome! Full time RVer's!! This is all new to us, and we are very excited!! I'm having a lot of fun buying new things and making it very comfy!! It's very hard to believe OCS for us was a year ago, I will NEVER forget that time in our lives ever!! I pray for the new Classes all the time!!!
Topdog, you will love traveling and spending time in your RV!! Just having our outside in our driveway is so much fun!! Our 1st trip will be to see our LO next month!! I can hardly wait!!!!
Now to convince my husband to take the RV to a quilt show east of here!!! Lot's of room for MORE FABRIC!! LOL!!
To all you RV'ers: I am jealous! I'm going to be working full-time for another 8 years or so before retirement, so not hitting the road any time soon. Hubby and I do travel several times per year, usually flying there and renting a car, but how cool that would be to just drive your home with you! Next big trip for us will be to go to Japan next year to see son & D-I-L at Yokota Base! May be forced to spend a few days in Hawaii on the way there and back, just to break up the long flight time into shorter legs.
Anna: I'm curious. I know we all can pay most bills online now, and do online banking, but how do you get mail if you are a full-time vagabond? Do you have a Post Office box somewhere? What address would one use for tax returns and such? I've always wondered what full-time travelers use for a mailing address!
Quilter: Good luck getting your hubby to go to the quilt show! I would have zero success at that with mine-- unless there was also a fishing expo nearby!!! haha
GalleyMom my son was in class 16-15 your must have been 1 or 2 class ahead of your LO. One other thing i would add about the candio box mine was flying out after graduation with limited spacce so i did not put a lots of $$ in decorating the box as i knew it would be hitting the recycle. bin. My kid is not a big sweet eater so it was filled with local beef jerky and peanuts and his favorite and cookies. Their class had a delay in receiving their boxes so much of the homemade goodiies were no longer any good by the time they got them. now off to go look at toy hauler.
My son graduates in 3 weeks from OCS. I'm just wondering what are some good graduation gifts? Is a garment bag or a box to hold his medals good gifts? How do they pack all their dress uniforms? Also, if he has to report somewhere right after he graduates, how many days do the typically give them? Does he have to pay for a plane ticket home to pack or is that payed for as moving expenses? Sorry, for all the questions! Thank you for any advice you have!
Mammaboom first congrats on your son's graduation from OCS. My son got a nice garment bag and a duffle bag from the navy exchange to load all his stuff in so buying one there might be an idea too maybe have him pick it out. We were fortunate to have our son fly home with us after OCS. We moved it a family vacation in Boston since being from the west coast none of us had been there.That was our present as he really did not what anything except for all of us to be together.(mom, dad and sister). My LO is a nuke so he reported to charlerston SC after spending 3 months in OHARP.( working at the recruiting at home area) he paid for his transportation home and back to charleston. He moved his belonging and was reimbursed by the navy for lodging and mileage and fuel. He had a choice to move it himself or havethe navy move it since he bought a new truck he choose to move it himself. Enjoy OCS and Hi Mom's and do forget to get up early and go watch their last PT.
Mammaboom, congrats on making it through OCS. I made my son an "Ensign box" for all his insignia. I inset an Ensign "Coin" in the top, and we bought him a couple of Navy coins that we thought were appropro for the occasion, including a coin from the VietNam era which is when and where his dad served. We also bought him his flight home right after graduation. He only had 3 days home as he had to report immediately to his next base. Loading his (very little car-a Pontiac Solstice) we realized he could barely fit his toothbrush and a change of underwear in there, so most of his stuff went into our suv and he and his dad tag teamed it to Pensacola. Since then we also bought him his Officer's Sword. Sadly that is still at our home. We are going to take it to him when he graduates the next phase of training.
Mammaboom: I will echo the others that luggage would be a good gift for an OCS grad. They will have several sets of uniforms, and boots, and hats, and there is no way they can fit all of that into the sea bag they are issued. We bought our son a nice, large, folding garment bag, and took that with us to graduation along with two other empty duffle bags that we stuffed in our suitcases. Many of the families hit the local Walmart for cheap luggage after graduation when they see how much stuff the new Ensign has to pack!
My son told us not to bother to get him a sword as it would just hang on the wall gathering dust. We did give him a wooden "Ensign Box" to hold his pins, insignias, medals, etc. I ordered it online from The Good Wood Store, and had it engraved with his name and OCS graduation date. He seemed to really like it, and still uses it today. They only wear the ribbons of the medals unless they're in full dress, so a box gives them a safe place to store the actual medals and other pins when they strip a uniform to take it to the cleaners.
After graduation, my son had 7 days travel time to report to NAS Oceana in Virginia Beach for Intel School. He was able to get a ticket on the same flight home as ours the day after graduation. (He had to pay for it--not the Navy.) Once home, he figured out what he needed to take with him for six months of school, loaded his pickup truck, and drove from Indiana to Virginia Beach. He may have been reimbursed for that mileage but I don't know.
Once your son gets his orders, he will know how much time he has to report to his next duty station, but some of them don't get their orders until graduation day or after, in which case, they have to stay in Newport until they do. Some of them get sent home to work in recruiting for a few months if it's going to be awhile before their class starts. I know it's hard to plan, but hopefully your son's orders will come in the next week or so, so he knows before graduation how much home time he will have! I know some of them in my son's class didn't get to go home, but had to leave the next day for their next assignment!
Wow, I've been away from my computer for a couple days and all kinds of sharing going on here!!! So happy to get caught up with all you wonderful moms.
Congratulations Mammaboom on your LO's upcoming graduation. I hope you enjoy your visit to Newport and all the graduation activities.
One comment I wanted to make on the candio box. We decorated and sent two to our daughter. One box was mostly a diorama of Florida where she was going for flight training. We glued in a large map of FL, shark, fish, flipflop stickers and even glued sand around the state map!! We went to Hallmark and got a small recordable music box and recorded Anchors Away on it. We didn't put much in that box because it would mess up the decorations. We even had little plastic palm trees that would pop up when she opened it!! She still has that box and gets a chuckle everytime she sees it!!! Our other box had some goodies and some of those microwavable cups that she would end up having for dinner on some of those crazy days when she couldn't get to the galley for any meals. Wouldn't even bother using a microwave just opened and wolfed it down. Not so much on the sweets either, granola bars, crackers, and individual drink mixes to make in her water bottle!!
Also, I wanted to mention, my enlisted daughter worked with personnel records when she was in, and would process pay records for both officer and enlisted. She recommends that your LOs save all receipts when traveling from one place to another, even if stopping off at home to pick up items they want with them, and submitting everything for reimbursement. The personnel department will go through it and determine what gets reimbursed. Some things you think wouldn't count would!!!
I hope you get that stop at the quilt show!! Tell hubby - compromise!!! I actually have my sewing machine with me!! It's amazing how much stuff you can store in the "basement" of a 5th wheel!!!!
M's mom,
Our sailor son is in Hawaii right now but will be transferring to WA after his upcoming deployment. He leaves in a few days for Scicily and will be gone for 6 months!!
As for the mail, we use our oldest son's address as our home of record. We have PA licenses, and our vehicles are registered there. He collects our mail, which isn't much because even our bills we have as online statements. But when we do get something important like tax papers and such, we just pick a place where we're going to, call ahead and ask if we can receive mail there and get the mailing address to use. Very important to call ahead because we've encountered a few places that won't accept mail if you aren't there yet!!! We usually pick 3 to 4 days out and son sends mail Priority and we usually meet up with our mail when we get there!!! One time, in West Yellowstone, our mail didn't come in before the morning we were packing up to leave. I called the local post office and they checked and our mail was there so we drove to the PO and picked it up rather than having the carrier take it out on the route. We would have had to wait till mid afternoon until he would show up with it!!! The hubby also recently found a place in Lake City, Florida that will establish an address for you, collect all your mail and send it out to you wherever you request. It costs about $200. a year, plus you pay for the postage. We are going to try that this coming year as son is temporarily moving for his job. We will get Florida licenses and registrations, etc. Will let you ladies know how this works out if you want!!!
Other than that, for those of you starting out with RVs, we love it, but we learned to really secure everything inside when traveling. We even had to add childproof locks on our kitchen cabinets cause with all the bouncing our trailer does, the doors kept popping open. Drawers too. We've heard, that when traveling down the road, the trailer bouncing is equivalent to a 4 or 5 point earthquake!!! Even check the refrigerator to make sure jars or bottles won't bounce around and make a mess. Once you park and set up, always open each and every door slowly to catch stuff that is poised and ready to fall out!!!!
And I'm always up for visiting Navy Moms across the country when we travel. I met up with 7 Mom Friends during last spring and summer travels!!!
I found the Facebook groups for each OCS class to be a wealth of information. I think there is a friends and family group you can ask to join. Search for 'Family & Friends Of Navy OCS 11-16'
My daughter is in 11-16 as well. I've estimated a friday graduation 5/27. Is that correct? I'd like to start making reservations since Memorial day weekend, but would like to confirm dates like NucelarOPSMom as well? I can't find anything officially.
When my son was in OCS the only official info I could find came from him. I just did the math, estimated the date to see what flights were available and as soon as he gave me the date I made my flight plans. I know it's frustrating but i have learned that's pretty much how it works in the military. I just ask him to let me know when he has a date for his next thing as my continuous asking would really drive him crazy. His graduation was the the Friday before Christmas so I understand the holiday situation. Sorry I don't have better info for you.
PaulaH - I would encourage making hotel reservations since they can be changed or cancelled. Newport, RI is a big summer tourist destination and hotels are likely to fill up. The Navy Lodge on base, on the other hand, sometimes frees up rooms 30 days out for personal travel. So, they may be full now and have availability later. If you want to stay there, it pays to keep calling.
I would hesitate to make air travel until later unless you find something you can change without too big of penalty (Southwest I hear is not bad for changes if you are military).
For those looking at upcoming graduation dates, especially Class 11-16...the only info I ever got about the Hi-Moms and graduation schedule came from my LO, and shared information on the Friends and Family facebook page for the class. Lean on your LO to find out from the OCS staff; they should have email/phone access by now. This was especially important because the graduation schedule for the class was changed (and always fluid) due to the Thanksgiving holiday. Our ceremony was moved up to Wednesday afternoon before Thanksgiving, which made travel an issue both ways. Fortunately we were driving, but many had flights to schedule.
I would just caution those wanting to make purchase airline tickets too early, unless you can find some that can be changed if needed, without large penalties. Until your loved one passes the big room, locker, personal inspection, they do stand a chance of being rolled back into another class.
Graduation for class 10-16 .. is May 6 and we have our airline tickets bought. There is some reference to buying tickets too early. I hope having already bought tickets now is not too early. This is my first experience in Newport, RI and will there be time to take our graduate out after graduation? I would also like to learn about first salute, "Hi Mom's"; dress attire for both and I heard rumbles of graduation gifts. Thank you in advance for your advice.
I think once your LO is through the first 6-7 weeks, you are safe to get airline tickets. There are not many rollable events after that. Just my opinion.
Hi Moms is different for each class. Mine was at the officers club and was dressy. Most men wore ties. I wore a dress but, I would not have felt out of place in dress slacks.
We were able to take our LO out after Hi Moms for dinner at a restaurant and to stay with us at our hotel (until 5am). They are free to leave after graduation once they have paperwork done, etc.
First salute is no longer done as far as I know...our class did not do this.
Many people did give gifts, I did not. Spending the money to bring everyone to Newport was our gift.
PaulaH and Patty Sue: You will find the best information about graduation activities from the Friends and Family Facebook group for your LO's class. While the Hi Moms reception varies from class, it seems that many are a late afternoon reception. People wore a wide range of attire at my son's event. Everything from cocktail dresses/suits to nice jeans. The attire is much less important than just being there for your LO. We were able to take my son out for dinner after the event. That may change depending on your LO’s Class Officers orders.
Gifts –
If you decide to give a gift and bring it to Graduation. I would suggest luggage or something small. They get so more uniform items than fit in the navy duffle. My son bought a garment bag at the NEX. He did ask us to bring a couple of large duffle bags in our carry-on out to Newport. And he used them both when packing up to leave OCS! So any large gift may add to packing issues if your LO will not be driving home to to their next duty station.
I gave my son two “challenge” coins after the ceremony as a gift. One which I had made through Things Remembered: http://www.thingsremembered.com/product/Military-Coins/168289.uts that I had OCS and his graduation date engraved on. I also found a challenge coin (on EBay) for the first ship he was assigned to. While he may have received one when he later arrived at the ship that will mean more to him, he seemed to appreciate receiving a small gift in person after the ceremony.
I want to thank all of you so much for taking time out of your busy day to write! It has filled my heart with such joy reading your responses, suggestions & words of advice! I've been reading and trying to learn as much as I can about being a Navy Mom, this site has taught me the most! May you & your LO be blessed with peace, health & happiness!
CL and Bkell32, thank you so much for your information in regards to my questions. I will be able to ask our LO what he needs us to bring and make plans for dinner. Any suggestions for a nice place for dinner? I also wondered if it is normal to have the erratic deposits during the OCS time. My LO is not sure what is being taken out and its' purpose. Thank you again
Patty Sue: Until they can log on and see the LES statements, the amounts seem very random. If there are any Navy spouses on here they can likely provide a better answer but I will give you my understanding from what I heard on the F&F Facebook group and my son. There is one monthly LES that details the month's pay and deductions. They are paid on the 1st and the 15th of each month, other than maybe that first month. The first month or two may be strange and appear erratic due to when they started in the month and when their uniform allowance shows up. When my son was in in 2015, the uniform allowance was about $1800. That showed up in his first paycheck because he started at the beginning of a month. That might not always be the case. Also they get a food allowance which is then pretty much deducted to cover food at OCS. Hope that helps. Sorry I don't have more details.
Regarding restaurants in Newport....there are MANY to choose from for any style, taste, or budget. I know some families went to The Mooring, which is quite nice and on the water. We went to Brick Alley Pub which is more casual and there were several OCS families there.
Here are a few restaurant suggestions I collected ahead of our trip out for graduation:
Brick Alley pub on Thames street: “Awesome place and they do take reservations. We made ours for 14 folks 2 weeks early.” “ We went to Brick Alley last night for dinner. It was good!”
Red Parrot: Wonderful lobster
Flo's Clam Shack “It is a shack but the freshest seafood. Nine of us were saying our meal was the best. We all ate different things. Flo's does have 2 different menus, one upstairs at the bar and the other one on the first floor.”
Corner Cafe on Broadway in Newport, “delicious food and so adorable.” (Breakfast/Lunch)
22 Bowens: Their website is 22bowens.com Also you can make reservations online thru opentable.
Providence Suggestions for things to do:
Providence (Renaissance city) is a small city so easily walk-able. Top 3 'day things' are as follows:
1. Definitely lunch on Federal Hill - Providence's Italian spot - outstanding (real) italian restaurants. No kidding - you will see mafia folks there!
2. Providence River Boat tour - great way to see Providence from the river (Address: The Hot Club Docks, 575 South Water Street, Providence, RI 02903 Phone Number: +1 401-580-2628).
3. If you are an intellectual; Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) Museum is awesome - Best school of design in the world.
4. Finally, if you have just one thing to do - Sailboat cruise in Newport. Very cool sailing in a bark and seeing the Newport mansions from the ocean. You will be in the same sailing track as the old American Cup races. Address: Bannister's Wharf, Newport, RI 02840 Phone Number: 401 847-0298. Hope this helps.
Agree. Thanks so much for taking the time to post. I've saved every comment! The feedback is comforting. I did apply for the group Friends and Family of 11-16 but haven't been approved yet. I hoping soon! Have a great weekend!
When we were in Newport for our son's OCS graduation, he took us to the Red Parrot downtown. It was excellent. We also ate at the Brick Alley Pub, which was also good.
If you have any free time in Newport, I would suggest taking tours of some of the "summer cottages" of the early 1900's old rich, such as the Vanderbilts' "The Breakers." To me, these are mansions, but to them, they were mere cottages to relax in the summer!!! You can get a map of the houses open for tours and buy tix at the Visitors' Center. Very interesting if you're into history.
Tip for hotels: Newport is crawling with tourists in the summer between Memorial Day and Labor Day, so if going to a summer OCS graduation, make hotel reservations EARLY. (You can always cancel or change if necessary.) When searching for hotels, be advised that the Navy base is actually closer to the town of Middletown, than Newport. The two towns merge together somewhat. Most of the hotels in Newport are resorts and therefore pricey. Search for hotels in "Middletown, RI" and you will find several reasonably-priced chain hotels that are away from the tourist areas, but actually closer to the Navy base. There is a Best Western hotel right outside of one of the gates. We stayed at the Holiday Inn Express in Middletown, which was very reasonable and less than a mile from the base. Depends on your preference. If you want the resort experience with views of the Bay, stay in Newport. If you would prefer cheaper hotels away from the tourist areas, look in Middletown.
I shouldn't post when I'm really tired!!! I mentioned in my earlier post about not buying plane tickets too early. I was thinking about the big RLP inspection that seemed to send several candidates back 3 weeks. And even after that there were a few big tests and the OUT PFA. My daughter was worried about that one because by that time she had such a bad case of shin splints and was having to ice her legs nightly. But that was several years back so I can't say for sure they still do that!!! Sorry if I came off a little critical, I really didn't mean to!!! I wish all of your LOs going through OCS great success!!! And I hope all of you Moms enjoy every minute of commissioning!!! It is awesome!!!!
Patty Sue: I don't know the answer to that! I suppose it is not unheard of for one of them to be rolled that late in the game, but I don't know what they would do with their Candio box in such a case! (Keep it for three weeks?) I have heard of candidates who got rolled back THE WEEK BEFORE GRADUATION, because they really screwed up and got caught drinking alcohol or some other prohibited activity. Imagine those candidates having to call home, "Don't fly out here for my graduation on Friday because, ummm...."
By the way, "Patty Sue" was my Mom's name, so I like you already!!! :-)
Good question Patty Sue, I guess it could happen, and I believe they will hold on to the Candio Box until your LO has completed the Candio Phase. That maybe the reasoning that they ask to not send anything perishable in the boxes. I will have to research that one!!
On another note everyone, my husband and I are headed South in the new RV to visit our LO!!! He's been flying a lot lately and he is studying a great deal, but he will try and make time to visit with us for a few days! Studying first however!! I told our LO, even if your in the next room studying, your dad and I are close enough we can touch you so study away!! LOL LOL
Quilter: I will ditto Anna's words. Have a safe trip! Hope your flying sailor gets to take a study break, and at least eat meals with you. Glad to hear he is doing well.
It will probably be summer of 2017 before we can go to Japan to see dear son and D-I-L. Until then we can just see them on Skype--not as satisfying as hugs!!!! We have to really plan those Skype sessions with the 13-hour time difference,---late night for us, early morning for them and vice versa!
T's Momma - Just saw your post and was curious where your son is graduating from. We are from SC and my son graduated from USC last December. He is 6 weeks into OCS. We are counting the days down until graduation. I know it is hard not to worry,but all us Mom's need to be reminded that are "kids" are elite young adults, that is why they are at OCS. It is a challenge, but they have what it takes.
My son drove himself from St. Louis to OCS in the fall a couple of years ago. But then we epic road warriors - it isn't a vacation if it doesn't involve driving a distance. The nice thing was having that car after graduation - such a push to get out of the housing and he had the flexibility to store his stuff in his car. We flew in and out. He ended up coming for a bit but that wasn't decided until graduation - he was prepared to go where he needed to go.
I understand - us moms always worry. My daughter drove by herself from Ohio to RI. And just to keep this is the back of your mind, she was originally supposed to report to OCS at a later date but suddenly got a call and said - get ready you are reporting to the next class that starts 8 July. She was basically ready but was still caught off guard a little. Hope that doesn't happen to your boy and you guys all get to attend the family vacation but just know that it can happen.
I am praying that your son's report date does not get changed. I understand about the pets too. My daughter left her precious cat with us when she left for OCS. I think her cat was depressed and confused for awhile but I just gave her extra attention and she did fine. She was used to living with all of us before daughter went off to college so she accepted being with hubby and I but didn't know where "her girl" was. She would go around mewing so I'd pick her up and hold her in my lap. Pets have adjustments to get through.
One other thing I wanted to tell you - with your son driving his own car to RI. My daughter was advised to take masking tape to put over her car door locks to prevent the salt from the air to mess them up. She took a small roll and just left it in her car after taping her locks!!!
Can anyone give me insight on the correct date to mail CANDIO boxes and also does OCS still do the tradition of a silver dollar at first salute? Trying to make sure I have all my bases covered as my son is in his seventh week. Thanks in advance for any words of wisdom and experience.
NuclearOPSMom: I think they become Candios at the beginning of the tenth week, so you can mail the box sometime during the ninth week. Make sure you mark it CANDIO on the outside of the box, so the mail room knows what it's for.
I think someone posted here recently that OCS had discontinued the First Salutes ceremony. What a shame--- such a long tradition in the Navy! When my son graduated OCS in Sept 2012, after the grad ceremony, everyone went down to the seawall by the bay where the class Drill Instructor and class Petty Officer stood. The new Ensigns formed a line, and one-by-one, were saluted and saluted back, then gave them each a silver dollar (or other coin.)
If there is now not a formal ceremony, I suppose the new Ensigns can still do it informally with their DI if they want. Someone said the DI's were making too much money from it, in the opinion of the OCS command, but I thought that was considered one of the perks!
NuclearOPSMom: I believe they get their Candio boxes the Wednesday of the 9th week. When my son was in last summer it was after a security incident at a base somewhere and in a phone call my son said they heard the boxes would take an extra day to be process in the mailroom. I sent my son's box USPS 2 day. I ended up mailing it on the Friday of week 8 from the midwest. Tracking said the box made it to the base on the Monday of week 9. Mailing on Saturday would have been fine and Monday may even have worked. If it gets there a day or two early, they hold it until that Wednesday (or whatever day they give boxes to that class).
My LO is in 11-16, her last email advised that we should mail the end of week 8, as they will open wed/thurs of week 9.
So, we are mailing 4/28. She has not mentioned anything about a silver dollar. I love all of the comments on this site! Everyone is great, and I learn so much. Candio box almost finished decorating. Last thing she wants me to buy is MIO energy for water. I'm sure walmart has that! Paula
The easiest way to go is to use the USPS large Priority Mail boxes. They are a flat rate fee no matter how much they weigh. The expression is "if it fits it ships!!!" They are free from the post office and take 2 - 3 days to get there depending on where you mail from. You only decorate the inside of the box and make sure you write CANDIO on the outside so if it gets there early the mailroom holds them until they are allowed to receive them. That way the box isn't contraband!!!
NuclearOpsMom,
I also heard that OCS stopped the first salute ceremony and the silver dollars. When my daughter graduated in 2012 her twin sister and older brother, both enlisted, attended her graduation and also stood with her DI and class Petty Officer. She had special silver dollars for her siblings in a little case with her commissioning date. It was pretty special and I'm sad to hear they ended that.
Shopgirl, very cool your son in 11-16! Graduation will be here soon! Yes, just like the others, we bought the large flat rate box, and will not decorate outside. I plan on writing Candi O like the others mentioned. We are mailing ours 4/28. I'm waiting till last minute to make homemade cookies!!! IMG_0082.JPG
First - let me thank all the Mom's that have gone before us for all the helpful input.
Shopgirl and Paula H - My son too is in 11/16, so we are counting the days down until graduation. He is in class F, so I hope somehow we can meet up at the events and say hi.
Can't wait to meet all at HiMoms. Thanks Suzanne and NucelarOPSMOM! All moms on this page have helped so much!
A week ago, she asked for MIO energy water enhancer. So, I purchased in every flavor. Then, two days ago she advised do not send as considered contraband. Now, she wants CLIFF bars! I'm going to donate the MIO energy enhancer to our Tech guys!
Anna
Quilter,
I can't believe it's been a year already!!! Love the news about the RV. My hubby and I are full-time Rvrs, spent all last year traveling the western US and then the last 6 months we've been wintering over in Jacksonville. We'll be leaving here in about 3 weeks and starting our travels all over the eastern US this year. Will end up heading for WA (where our son is getting transferred to) for a visit and then heading to southern CA for this coming winter. I highly recommend it if you get to travel often!!! Seeing our LOs is always the cherry on top!!!!
Mar 18, 2016
PaulaH
Wow thanks everyone. I'll get started by purchasing the box and slowly decorate and fill it up. It will be hard waiting to send though till week 9 , but I understand why!!!!! This really is motivating:)
Mar 18, 2016
topdog1p
Quilter i can not wait til my hubby retires and we start RVing. we are now starting to look at toyhaulers so we can bring our harley where ever we go.
Anna I hope you enjoy my home state of Washington there is so much to see and enjoy the time you will get to send with your LO
Mar 18, 2016
Anna
topdog,
I agree about your home state. Got to visit twice when my enlisted daughter was stationed threre. There are still several places I want to see so I'm hoping I get more time this time around!!!!!
Mar 18, 2016
Quilter
Anna,
That's awesome! Full time RVer's!! This is all new to us, and we are very excited!! I'm having a lot of fun buying new things and making it very comfy!! It's very hard to believe OCS for us was a year ago, I will NEVER forget that time in our lives ever!! I pray for the new Classes all the time!!!
Topdog, you will love traveling and spending time in your RV!! Just having our outside in our driveway is so much fun!! Our 1st trip will be to see our LO next month!! I can hardly wait!!!!
Now to convince my husband to take the RV to a quilt show east of here!!! Lot's of room for MORE FABRIC!! LOL!!
Mar 18, 2016
M's mom
To all you RV'ers: I am jealous! I'm going to be working full-time for another 8 years or so before retirement, so not hitting the road any time soon. Hubby and I do travel several times per year, usually flying there and renting a car, but how cool that would be to just drive your home with you! Next big trip for us will be to go to Japan next year to see son & D-I-L at Yokota Base! May be forced to spend a few days in Hawaii on the way there and back, just to break up the long flight time into shorter legs.
Anna: I'm curious. I know we all can pay most bills online now, and do online banking, but how do you get mail if you are a full-time vagabond? Do you have a Post Office box somewhere? What address would one use for tax returns and such? I've always wondered what full-time travelers use for a mailing address!
Quilter: Good luck getting your hubby to go to the quilt show! I would have zero success at that with mine-- unless there was also a fishing expo nearby!!! haha
Mar 19, 2016
topdog1p
GalleyMom my son was in class 16-15 your must have been 1 or 2 class ahead of your LO. One other thing i would add about the candio box mine was flying out after graduation with limited spacce so i did not put a lots of $$ in decorating the box as i knew it would be hitting the recycle. bin. My kid is not a big sweet eater so it was filled with local beef jerky and peanuts and his favorite and cookies. Their class had a delay in receiving their boxes so much of the homemade goodiies were no longer any good by the time they got them. now off to go look at toy hauler.
Mar 19, 2016
Mammaboom
My son graduates in 3 weeks from OCS. I'm just wondering what are some good graduation gifts? Is a garment bag or a box to hold his medals good gifts? How do they pack all their dress uniforms? Also, if he has to report somewhere right after he graduates, how many days do the typically give them? Does he have to pay for a plane ticket home to pack or is that payed for as moving expenses? Sorry, for all the questions! Thank you for any advice you have!
Mar 19, 2016
topdog1p
Mammaboom first congrats on your son's graduation from OCS. My son got a nice garment bag and a duffle bag from the navy exchange to load all his stuff in so buying one there might be an idea too maybe have him pick it out. We were fortunate to have our son fly home with us after OCS. We moved it a family vacation in Boston since being from the west coast none of us had been there.That was our present as he really did not what anything except for all of us to be together.(mom, dad and sister). My LO is a nuke so he reported to charlerston SC after spending 3 months in OHARP.( working at the recruiting at home area) he paid for his transportation home and back to charleston. He moved his belonging and was reimbursed by the navy for lodging and mileage and fuel. He had a choice to move it himself or havethe navy move it since he bought a new truck he choose to move it himself. Enjoy OCS and Hi Mom's and do forget to get up early and go watch their last PT.
Mar 19, 2016
JediGrey
Mar 19, 2016
M's mom
Mammaboom: I will echo the others that luggage would be a good gift for an OCS grad. They will have several sets of uniforms, and boots, and hats, and there is no way they can fit all of that into the sea bag they are issued. We bought our son a nice, large, folding garment bag, and took that with us to graduation along with two other empty duffle bags that we stuffed in our suitcases. Many of the families hit the local Walmart for cheap luggage after graduation when they see how much stuff the new Ensign has to pack!
My son told us not to bother to get him a sword as it would just hang on the wall gathering dust. We did give him a wooden "Ensign Box" to hold his pins, insignias, medals, etc. I ordered it online from The Good Wood Store, and had it engraved with his name and OCS graduation date. He seemed to really like it, and still uses it today. They only wear the ribbons of the medals unless they're in full dress, so a box gives them a safe place to store the actual medals and other pins when they strip a uniform to take it to the cleaners.
After graduation, my son had 7 days travel time to report to NAS Oceana in Virginia Beach for Intel School. He was able to get a ticket on the same flight home as ours the day after graduation. (He had to pay for it--not the Navy.) Once home, he figured out what he needed to take with him for six months of school, loaded his pickup truck, and drove from Indiana to Virginia Beach. He may have been reimbursed for that mileage but I don't know.
Once your son gets his orders, he will know how much time he has to report to his next duty station, but some of them don't get their orders until graduation day or after, in which case, they have to stay in Newport until they do. Some of them get sent home to work in recruiting for a few months if it's going to be awhile before their class starts. I know it's hard to plan, but hopefully your son's orders will come in the next week or so, so he knows before graduation how much home time he will have! I know some of them in my son's class didn't get to go home, but had to leave the next day for their next assignment!
Mar 19, 2016
Anna
Wow, I've been away from my computer for a couple days and all kinds of sharing going on here!!! So happy to get caught up with all you wonderful moms.
Congratulations Mammaboom on your LO's upcoming graduation. I hope you enjoy your visit to Newport and all the graduation activities.
One comment I wanted to make on the candio box. We decorated and sent two to our daughter. One box was mostly a diorama of Florida where she was going for flight training. We glued in a large map of FL, shark, fish, flipflop stickers and even glued sand around the state map!! We went to Hallmark and got a small recordable music box and recorded Anchors Away on it. We didn't put much in that box because it would mess up the decorations. We even had little plastic palm trees that would pop up when she opened it!! She still has that box and gets a chuckle everytime she sees it!!! Our other box had some goodies and some of those microwavable cups that she would end up having for dinner on some of those crazy days when she couldn't get to the galley for any meals. Wouldn't even bother using a microwave just opened and wolfed it down. Not so much on the sweets either, granola bars, crackers, and individual drink mixes to make in her water bottle!!
Also, I wanted to mention, my enlisted daughter worked with personnel records when she was in, and would process pay records for both officer and enlisted. She recommends that your LOs save all receipts when traveling from one place to another, even if stopping off at home to pick up items they want with them, and submitting everything for reimbursement. The personnel department will go through it and determine what gets reimbursed. Some things you think wouldn't count would!!!
Mar 23, 2016
Anna
Now, about the RV questions!
Quilter,
I hope you get that stop at the quilt show!! Tell hubby - compromise!!! I actually have my sewing machine with me!! It's amazing how much stuff you can store in the "basement" of a 5th wheel!!!!
M's mom,
Our sailor son is in Hawaii right now but will be transferring to WA after his upcoming deployment. He leaves in a few days for Scicily and will be gone for 6 months!!
As for the mail, we use our oldest son's address as our home of record. We have PA licenses, and our vehicles are registered there. He collects our mail, which isn't much because even our bills we have as online statements. But when we do get something important like tax papers and such, we just pick a place where we're going to, call ahead and ask if we can receive mail there and get the mailing address to use. Very important to call ahead because we've encountered a few places that won't accept mail if you aren't there yet!!! We usually pick 3 to 4 days out and son sends mail Priority and we usually meet up with our mail when we get there!!! One time, in West Yellowstone, our mail didn't come in before the morning we were packing up to leave. I called the local post office and they checked and our mail was there so we drove to the PO and picked it up rather than having the carrier take it out on the route. We would have had to wait till mid afternoon until he would show up with it!!! The hubby also recently found a place in Lake City, Florida that will establish an address for you, collect all your mail and send it out to you wherever you request. It costs about $200. a year, plus you pay for the postage. We are going to try that this coming year as son is temporarily moving for his job. We will get Florida licenses and registrations, etc. Will let you ladies know how this works out if you want!!!
Other than that, for those of you starting out with RVs, we love it, but we learned to really secure everything inside when traveling. We even had to add childproof locks on our kitchen cabinets cause with all the bouncing our trailer does, the doors kept popping open. Drawers too. We've heard, that when traveling down the road, the trailer bouncing is equivalent to a 4 or 5 point earthquake!!! Even check the refrigerator to make sure jars or bottles won't bounce around and make a mess. Once you park and set up, always open each and every door slowly to catch stuff that is poised and ready to fall out!!!!
And I'm always up for visiting Navy Moms across the country when we travel. I met up with 7 Mom Friends during last spring and summer travels!!!
Sorry for the book - - - - - -
Mar 23, 2016
NuclearOPSMom
Is there a site where you can get details and schedules for OCS graduation in Newport - my son is in Class 11-16?
Mar 30, 2016
bkat3
I found the Facebook groups for each OCS class to be a wealth of information. I think there is a friends and family group you can ask to join. Search for 'Family & Friends Of Navy OCS 11-16'
Mar 30, 2016
PaulaH
My daughter is in 11-16 as well. I've estimated a friday graduation 5/27. Is that correct? I'd like to start making reservations since Memorial day weekend, but would like to confirm dates like NucelarOPSMom as well? I can't find anything officially.
Mar 31, 2016
LoniJ
Mar 31, 2016
bkat3
PaulaH - I would encourage making hotel reservations since they can be changed or cancelled. Newport, RI is a big summer tourist destination and hotels are likely to fill up. The Navy Lodge on base, on the other hand, sometimes frees up rooms 30 days out for personal travel. So, they may be full now and have availability later. If you want to stay there, it pays to keep calling.
I would hesitate to make air travel until later unless you find something you can change without too big of penalty (Southwest I hear is not bad for changes if you are military).
Mar 31, 2016
LizMcD
For those looking at upcoming graduation dates, especially Class 11-16...the only info I ever got about the Hi-Moms and graduation schedule came from my LO, and shared information on the Friends and Family facebook page for the class. Lean on your LO to find out from the OCS staff; they should have email/phone access by now. This was especially important because the graduation schedule for the class was changed (and always fluid) due to the Thanksgiving holiday. Our ceremony was moved up to Wednesday afternoon before Thanksgiving, which made travel an issue both ways. Fortunately we were driving, but many had flights to schedule.
Mar 31, 2016
Anna
I would just caution those wanting to make purchase airline tickets too early, unless you can find some that can be changed if needed, without large penalties. Until your loved one passes the big room, locker, personal inspection, they do stand a chance of being rolled back into another class.
Mar 31, 2016
Patty Sue
Graduation for class 10-16 .. is May 6 and we have our airline tickets bought. There is some reference to buying tickets too early. I hope having already bought tickets now is not too early. This is my first experience in Newport, RI and will there be time to take our graduate out after graduation? I would also like to learn about first salute, "Hi Mom's"; dress attire for both and I heard rumbles of graduation gifts. Thank you in advance for your advice.
Mar 31, 2016
bkat3
I think once your LO is through the first 6-7 weeks, you are safe to get airline tickets. There are not many rollable events after that. Just my opinion.
Hi Moms is different for each class. Mine was at the officers club and was dressy. Most men wore ties. I wore a dress but, I would not have felt out of place in dress slacks.
We were able to take our LO out after Hi Moms for dinner at a restaurant and to stay with us at our hotel (until 5am). They are free to leave after graduation once they have paperwork done, etc.
First salute is no longer done as far as I know...our class did not do this.
Many people did give gifts, I did not. Spending the money to bring everyone to Newport was our gift.
Apr 1, 2016
CindyN
PaulaH and Patty Sue: You will find the best information about graduation activities from the Friends and Family Facebook group for your LO's class. While the Hi Moms reception varies from class, it seems that many are a late afternoon reception. People wore a wide range of attire at my son's event. Everything from cocktail dresses/suits to nice jeans. The attire is much less important than just being there for your LO. We were able to take my son out for dinner after the event. That may change depending on your LO’s Class Officers orders.
Gifts –
If you decide to give a gift and bring it to Graduation. I would suggest luggage or something small. They get so more uniform items than fit in the navy duffle. My son bought a garment bag at the NEX. He did ask us to bring a couple of large duffle bags in our carry-on out to Newport. And he used them both when packing up to leave OCS! So any large gift may add to packing issues if your LO will not be driving home to to their next duty station.
I gave my son two “challenge” coins after the ceremony as a gift. One which I had made through Things Remembered: http://www.thingsremembered.com/product/Military-Coins/168289.uts that I had OCS and his graduation date engraved on. I also found a challenge coin (on EBay) for the first ship he was assigned to. While he may have received one when he later arrived at the ship that will mean more to him, he seemed to appreciate receiving a small gift in person after the ceremony.
Apr 1, 2016
Mammaboom
I want to thank all of you so much for taking time out of your busy day to write! It has filled my heart with such joy reading your responses, suggestions & words of advice! I've been reading and trying to learn as much as I can about being a Navy Mom, this site has taught me the most! May you & your LO be blessed with peace, health & happiness!
Apr 1, 2016
Patty Sue
CL and Bkell32, thank you so much for your information in regards to my questions. I will be able to ask our LO what he needs us to bring and make plans for dinner. Any suggestions for a nice place for dinner? I also wondered if it is normal to have the erratic deposits during the OCS time. My LO is not sure what is being taken out and its' purpose. Thank you again
Apr 1, 2016
CindyN
Patty Sue: Until they can log on and see the LES statements, the amounts seem very random. If there are any Navy spouses on here they can likely provide a better answer but I will give you my understanding from what I heard on the F&F Facebook group and my son. There is one monthly LES that details the month's pay and deductions. They are paid on the 1st and the 15th of each month, other than maybe that first month. The first month or two may be strange and appear erratic due to when they started in the month and when their uniform allowance shows up. When my son was in in 2015, the uniform allowance was about $1800. That showed up in his first paycheck because he started at the beginning of a month. That might not always be the case. Also they get a food allowance which is then pretty much deducted to cover food at OCS. Hope that helps. Sorry I don't have more details.
Apr 1, 2016
bkat3
Regarding restaurants in Newport....there are MANY to choose from for any style, taste, or budget. I know some families went to The Mooring, which is quite nice and on the water. We went to Brick Alley Pub which is more casual and there were several OCS families there.
Apr 2, 2016
CindyN
Here are a few restaurant suggestions I collected ahead of our trip out for graduation:
Brick Alley pub on Thames street: “Awesome place and they do take reservations. We made ours for 14 folks 2 weeks early.” “ We went to Brick Alley last night for dinner. It was good!”
Red Parrot: Wonderful lobster
Flo's Clam Shack “It is a shack but the freshest seafood. Nine of us were saying our meal was the best. We all ate different things. Flo's does have 2 different menus, one upstairs at the bar and the other one on the first floor.”
Corner Cafe on Broadway in Newport, “delicious food and so adorable.” (Breakfast/Lunch)
22 Bowens: Their website is 22bowens.com Also you can make reservations online thru opentable.
Providence Suggestions for things to do:
Providence (Renaissance city) is a small city so easily walk-able. Top 3 'day things' are as follows:
1. Definitely lunch on Federal Hill - Providence's Italian spot - outstanding (real) italian restaurants. No kidding - you will see mafia folks there!
2. Providence River Boat tour - great way to see Providence from the river (Address: The Hot Club Docks, 575 South Water Street, Providence, RI 02903 Phone Number: +1 401-580-2628).
3. If you are an intellectual; Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) Museum is awesome - Best school of design in the world.
4. Finally, if you have just one thing to do - Sailboat cruise in Newport. Very cool sailing in a bark and seeing the Newport mansions from the ocean. You will be in the same sailing track as the old American Cup races. Address: Bannister's Wharf, Newport, RI 02840 Phone Number: 401 847-0298. Hope this helps.
Apr 2, 2016
PaulaH
Agree. Thanks so much for taking the time to post. I've saved every comment! The feedback is comforting. I did apply for the group Friends and Family of 11-16 but haven't been approved yet. I hoping soon! Have a great weekend!
Apr 2, 2016
PaulaH
Thanks! I'm in! :)
Apr 2, 2016
M's mom
When we were in Newport for our son's OCS graduation, he took us to the Red Parrot downtown. It was excellent. We also ate at the Brick Alley Pub, which was also good.
If you have any free time in Newport, I would suggest taking tours of some of the "summer cottages" of the early 1900's old rich, such as the Vanderbilts' "The Breakers." To me, these are mansions, but to them, they were mere cottages to relax in the summer!!! You can get a map of the houses open for tours and buy tix at the Visitors' Center. Very interesting if you're into history.
Tip for hotels: Newport is crawling with tourists in the summer between Memorial Day and Labor Day, so if going to a summer OCS graduation, make hotel reservations EARLY. (You can always cancel or change if necessary.) When searching for hotels, be advised that the Navy base is actually closer to the town of Middletown, than Newport. The two towns merge together somewhat. Most of the hotels in Newport are resorts and therefore pricey. Search for hotels in "Middletown, RI" and you will find several reasonably-priced chain hotels that are away from the tourist areas, but actually closer to the Navy base. There is a Best Western hotel right outside of one of the gates. We stayed at the Holiday Inn Express in Middletown, which was very reasonable and less than a mile from the base. Depends on your preference. If you want the resort experience with views of the Bay, stay in Newport. If you would prefer cheaper hotels away from the tourist areas, look in Middletown.
Apr 2, 2016
Anna
I shouldn't post when I'm really tired!!! I mentioned in my earlier post about not buying plane tickets too early. I was thinking about the big RLP inspection that seemed to send several candidates back 3 weeks. And even after that there were a few big tests and the OUT PFA. My daughter was worried about that one because by that time she had such a bad case of shin splints and was having to ice her legs nightly. But that was several years back so I can't say for sure they still do that!!! Sorry if I came off a little critical, I really didn't mean to!!! I wish all of your LOs going through OCS great success!!! And I hope all of you Moms enjoy every minute of commissioning!!! It is awesome!!!!
Apr 3, 2016
Patty Sue
Any word from our lo's on their white inspection and physical test for 10-16D? If someone is rolled do they still get their candi-o box?
Apr 6, 2016
M's mom
Patty Sue: I don't know the answer to that! I suppose it is not unheard of for one of them to be rolled that late in the game, but I don't know what they would do with their Candio box in such a case! (Keep it for three weeks?) I have heard of candidates who got rolled back THE WEEK BEFORE GRADUATION, because they really screwed up and got caught drinking alcohol or some other prohibited activity. Imagine those candidates having to call home, "Don't fly out here for my graduation on Friday because, ummm...."
By the way, "Patty Sue" was my Mom's name, so I like you already!!! :-)
Apr 6, 2016
Quilter
Good question Patty Sue, I guess it could happen, and I believe they will hold on to the Candio Box until your LO has completed the Candio Phase. That maybe the reasoning that they ask to not send anything perishable in the boxes. I will have to research that one!!
On another note everyone, my husband and I are headed South in the new RV to visit our LO!!! He's been flying a lot lately and he is studying a great deal, but he will try and make time to visit with us for a few days! Studying first however!! I told our LO, even if your in the next room studying, your dad and I are close enough we can touch you so study away!! LOL LOL
Apr 6, 2016
Anna
Quilter,
Have fun with your RV trip and especially with seeing that sweet sailor son of yours!!!! Hope you have wonderful weather and safe travels!!!!
Apr 7, 2016
M's mom
Quilter: I will ditto Anna's words. Have a safe trip! Hope your flying sailor gets to take a study break, and at least eat meals with you. Glad to hear he is doing well.
It will probably be summer of 2017 before we can go to Japan to see dear son and D-I-L. Until then we can just see them on Skype--not as satisfying as hugs!!!! We have to really plan those Skype sessions with the 13-hour time difference,---late night for us, early morning for them and vice versa!
Apr 7, 2016
NuclearOPSMom
T's Momma - Just saw your post and was curious where your son is graduating from. We are from SC and my son graduated from USC last December. He is 6 weeks into OCS. We are counting the days down until graduation. I know it is hard not to worry,but all us Mom's need to be reminded that are "kids" are elite young adults, that is why they are at OCS. It is a challenge, but they have what it takes.
Apr 19, 2016
Marmie
My son drove himself from St. Louis to OCS in the fall a couple of years ago. But then we epic road warriors - it isn't a vacation if it doesn't involve driving a distance. The nice thing was having that car after graduation - such a push to get out of the housing and he had the flexibility to store his stuff in his car. We flew in and out. He ended up coming for a bit but that wasn't decided until graduation - he was prepared to go where he needed to go.
Apr 19, 2016
Anna
T's momma,
I understand - us moms always worry. My daughter drove by herself from Ohio to RI. And just to keep this is the back of your mind, she was originally supposed to report to OCS at a later date but suddenly got a call and said - get ready you are reporting to the next class that starts 8 July. She was basically ready but was still caught off guard a little. Hope that doesn't happen to your boy and you guys all get to attend the family vacation but just know that it can happen.
Apr 19, 2016
Anna
T's momma,
I am praying that your son's report date does not get changed. I understand about the pets too. My daughter left her precious cat with us when she left for OCS. I think her cat was depressed and confused for awhile but I just gave her extra attention and she did fine. She was used to living with all of us before daughter went off to college so she accepted being with hubby and I but didn't know where "her girl" was. She would go around mewing so I'd pick her up and hold her in my lap. Pets have adjustments to get through.
One other thing I wanted to tell you - with your son driving his own car to RI. My daughter was advised to take masking tape to put over her car door locks to prevent the salt from the air to mess them up. She took a small roll and just left it in her car after taping her locks!!!
Apr 20, 2016
NuclearOPSMom
Can anyone give me insight on the correct date to mail CANDIO boxes and also does OCS still do the tradition of a silver dollar at first salute? Trying to make sure I have all my bases covered as my son is in his seventh week. Thanks in advance for any words of wisdom and experience.
Apr 21, 2016
M's mom
NuclearOPSMom: I think they become Candios at the beginning of the tenth week, so you can mail the box sometime during the ninth week. Make sure you mark it CANDIO on the outside of the box, so the mail room knows what it's for.
I think someone posted here recently that OCS had discontinued the First Salutes ceremony. What a shame--- such a long tradition in the Navy! When my son graduated OCS in Sept 2012, after the grad ceremony, everyone went down to the seawall by the bay where the class Drill Instructor and class Petty Officer stood. The new Ensigns formed a line, and one-by-one, were saluted and saluted back, then gave them each a silver dollar (or other coin.)
If there is now not a formal ceremony, I suppose the new Ensigns can still do it informally with their DI if they want. Someone said the DI's were making too much money from it, in the opinion of the OCS command, but I thought that was considered one of the perks!
Apr 21, 2016
CindyN
NuclearOPSMom: I believe they get their Candio boxes the Wednesday of the 9th week. When my son was in last summer it was after a security incident at a base somewhere and in a phone call my son said they heard the boxes would take an extra day to be process in the mailroom. I sent my son's box USPS 2 day. I ended up mailing it on the Friday of week 8 from the midwest. Tracking said the box made it to the base on the Monday of week 9. Mailing on Saturday would have been fine and Monday may even have worked. If it gets there a day or two early, they hold it until that Wednesday (or whatever day they give boxes to that class).
Apr 21, 2016
PaulaH
My LO is in 11-16, her last email advised that we should mail the end of week 8, as they will open wed/thurs of week 9.
So, we are mailing 4/28. She has not mentioned anything about a silver dollar. I love all of the comments on this site! Everyone is great, and I learn so much. Candio box almost finished decorating. Last thing she wants me to buy is MIO energy for water. I'm sure walmart has that! Paula
Apr 22, 2016
Anna
Shopgirl,
The easiest way to go is to use the USPS large Priority Mail boxes. They are a flat rate fee no matter how much they weigh. The expression is "if it fits it ships!!!" They are free from the post office and take 2 - 3 days to get there depending on where you mail from. You only decorate the inside of the box and make sure you write CANDIO on the outside so if it gets there early the mailroom holds them until they are allowed to receive them. That way the box isn't contraband!!!
NuclearOpsMom,
I also heard that OCS stopped the first salute ceremony and the silver dollars. When my daughter graduated in 2012 her twin sister and older brother, both enlisted, attended her graduation and also stood with her DI and class Petty Officer. She had special silver dollars for her siblings in a little case with her commissioning date. It was pretty special and I'm sad to hear they ended that.
Apr 22, 2016
PaulaH
Shopgirl, very cool your son in 11-16! Graduation will be here soon! Yes, just like the others, we bought the large flat rate box, and will not decorate outside. I plan on writing Candi O like the others mentioned. We are mailing ours 4/28. I'm waiting till last minute to make homemade cookies!!! IMG_0082.JPG
Apr 24, 2016
NuclearOPSMom
First - let me thank all the Mom's that have gone before us for all the helpful input.
Shopgirl and Paula H - My son too is in 11/16, so we are counting the days down until graduation. He is in class F, so I hope somehow we can meet up at the events and say hi.
Apr 24, 2016
Anna
I hope all of you moms attending commissioning for 11/16 have an awesome experience and that you do get to meet each other!!!
Apr 24, 2016
PaulaH
Can't wait to meet all at HiMoms. Thanks Suzanne and NucelarOPSMOM! All moms on this page have helped so much!
A week ago, she asked for MIO energy water enhancer. So, I purchased in every flavor. Then, two days ago she advised do not send as considered contraband. Now, she wants CLIFF bars! I'm going to donate the MIO energy enhancer to our Tech guys!
Apr 25, 2016