punkinsmom - I got teary eyed just reading your post....I can only imagine the thrill of seeing that huge ship come in and then spying your Sailor as he/she comes off. I would have been shaking and screaming too! I don't have an IPAD so not sure exactly how they work, but from my computer I just click on the "image" icon in the comment section then browse my computer for the pic I want to post. Hope that helps, if not I hope someone else will come on here and explain. Have a wonderful time in Japan. So happy for all of you over there!
Oh Katlanta, what a beautiful picture. You must be so excited he will be stateside. I've only been on this site since the last cruise and you were so helpful in teaching the ropes of the deploy experience. My sailor is on this cruise, but will be heading back stateside in March. Will be so nice to have him just a flight across the states away. Not to mention only 3hr time zone for phone calls. I didn't make it to Japan as he came home for Christmas and will be returning to the states shortly after this cruise. But so looking forward to his next move.
All you moms that got to see the ship come in how exciting!!!! I will be at one in the future, it has to be such a thrill. I just can not even comprehend how big these carriers are.
Welcome Lisaz! Hang in there it's really tough when they first leave but there's lots of support on here...we're all in this together!
Katlanta - they are such a cute couple! I know your son is coming back to the states but is there any plans for the gf to come here? She looks like she would make a beautiful dil!
lmnadelady - How wonderful your Sailor will be coming back stateside too! You ladies must be overwhelmed to have them close again. My son still has 2 1/2 more years to go in Japan so I can't even begin to think about it. Got my fingers crossed he'll get leave this winter or spring and be able to come home to visit though.
I come on here but why doesn't anyone talk to me! My son is on the gw also and now has a Japanese gf love her she's so sweet! Can't afford to have gone to family day so I just have to cry here instead of there! Lol!
Hi Navymommaria! I don't "talk" often on this site but am greatly comforted by what's posted here by others. Be encouraged that if you need anything, just ask and you will receive. I too wish that we could afford the trip to Japan for the family cruise but that's not something we can afford. :( However, I have enjoyed hearing other Navy Mom's experiences. I view all photo's hoping to one day see my daughter. Oh, well. . .at least we text like crazy when possible, skype when possible and message via Facebook. As has been said - we are all in this together! Blessings to everyone!
Hi Ladies! Hope all is well with you and yours. All is good in Louisville and with my Sailor. He is enjoying his time in port. Saw where the USSGW had Family Day. Maybe I will get to go to a future one. Will check-in soon.Take care and be safe!
Well she just arrived in Japan now I have to get myself together and move on until I hear from her hopefully it won't be too long I know it has to be hard on them traveling that far she was a little crabby last night when I talked to her I'm grateful she made it there safely God Bless all of our military and I'm thankful for this site and all the moms on here
Katlanta - She's a beautiful young woman both inside and out! Hope their relationship continues to grow and she becomes a permanent part of your family. Keep us posted.
Hey ladies...thought I would check in and say hello...hope everyone's had a great week!!! I've had a great week because I have received a phone call and FaceTime everyday sometimes twice a day!!!! Love when they are home meaning Japan!!! My son did an overnight trip and climbed Mt Fuji...he said it was awesome and literally breathtaking!!! I miss him so much but at the same time so proud and happy that he gets to see and experience so many amazing things that most of us never will!!!
Have an awesome 3 day weekend ladies!!!
I too have heard very little from my son, but his phone got stolen on the ship. So I don't get the facebook messages either :( My son was so bummed. I was hoping he would get it replaced already but it might have been harder or more expensive than he thought.
Kimberly I finally heard from my son on fb he said "I will call as soon as I can and I love you" I just want to hear his voice. But at least I know he is safe for the moment I just keep praying. I am glad for these groups because I know I am not the only one.
Is there anyone on right now that can help with travel by train from Yokosuka to Narita? My Sailor is trying to get home heading to airport by train and not sure about what he is doing.
Yes, tell him to go to the Shioiri or Yokosuka-Chuo train station and take the Keiyku express headed towards Shinagawa. Tell him to get off at Shinigawa and there he needs to purchase a ticket towards Narita Intl Airport on the Narita Express. He can do so at the travel booking center that is located at the Shinagawa train station.
Navymommaria...CoCoBeansMom, and Joshmom have both spoken to you the last time you asked why no one was talking to you. What would you like to know or what would you like for everyone else to know? This is a chatty bunch though much friendlier and easier to "break into" conversations with than the Japan Moms group. I read most of the posts even though I don't post very often. My son is attached to a squadron who does not keep up with day-to-day events on facebook so this site, the G-dub's facebook page, and military times.com, are my best sources for glimpses into his life. I understand your frustration if you feel that folks are not chatting with you, but you must go back to your posts and see that people have acknowledged you. I hope you will find whatever support and/or information you are looking for here. I hope your sailor enjoys their time in Japan.
Good morning ladies... Hope everyone's having a great week!!! My son over the long Labor Day weekend got 3 new tatoos 2 were on his arms/guns that say Don't quit and Never give up and the other is on his ribs that is his life verse Philippians 4:13... I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me... So far I'm ok with the ones he's gotten I just don't like to see tats of crazy ass stuff that are very visible so that later after his time in the military are hard to hide in a job interview...if you know what I mean... Also, over the weekend he was hanging out in the barracks and he witnessed one of the sailors slit both of his wrist trying to committ suicide because his boyfriend broke up with him...Kyle didn't know him but he went and wrapped his arms with a towel and applied pressure until the paramedics got there...he had to go to base security and fill out a witness statement... He said it was crazy!!! I pray the guy gets the help he needs!!!
My son got all his Quals so when they get back from deployment in December he will be able to move into the barracks which he is looking forward to...
Ladies have an awesome week!!!
Navymommaria - Sorry you feel this way. Please jump in and ask questions or share your stories and feelings with us. We all share a common bond and we've come here because we all love our children very much and want to stay connected in as many ways as possible. I personally think the people in this group are great and very supportive. I really enjoy reading the posts and get much comfort in knowing that I am not alone in the feelings that I have. Because of this group I know I'm normal when I get those "missing my sailor" blues or when I feel frustrated because my sailor hasn't contacted me as often as I think he should! The veteran moms bring so much knowledge to this group and I get excited reading about Sailors coming home, advancing, getting rewards, climbing Mt Fuji or whatever the case may be. All the posts make me feel like I'm part of the Navy family and I want everyone in this group to know that even though I don't comment all the time I am here with you always in spirit cheering both you and your sailors on, giving you hugs and keeping you in my prayers.
HUGS to everyone and God bless you all and your Sailors!!!!
Navymommaria... This site is amazing...just reading the post from other moms that are going through the same things I am is very encouraging!!! It helped me a lot especially when they were deployed and the communication was not everyday but a quick email that said I love you...which was awesome but there's nothing like hearing their voice and seeing him on Facetime!!!
I'm new to the site but so happy we have it because again it has been so helpful and encouraging hearing from the other moms!!!!
Thanks everyone for all the info! I am tracking my son's plane now...he is now flying over US soil. I'll be getting my hug in about 4 hours. To all new moms welcome and please know that all the ladies here are more than willing to help in any way possible, all you need to do is ask. {{N4M hugs}} to all.
so exciting to read about all of your sailors adventures. I sure hope my son was one of them that climbed Mt. Fugi. We have a family friend navy veteran that recommended that activity if he had the chance. We haven't heard anything meaningful from Seth since the beginning of May. He posted that he was in Brisbane and got his "rating and points". Not sure what that means but hope it means he finally gets to go to engine training.
JDMK- I can't imagine how panicked you felt when he was trying to get to the plane but I know how relieved and excited you must be knowing he's on it and almost home. I've told people if my son ever gets to come home I will squeeze him until my arms are tired and if I haven't suffocated him with that I will choke him for not keeping in minimal contact. His mailbox is full again so messages are bouncing back. At least I didn't panic this time like last.
Navymommaria - Please know that even though there are specific chats to you there are many reading your posts. After my first time on the site I couldn't come back for several months because it made me cry too much. It's better now but still cry happy tears for those with exciting news and sympathetic tears for those with similar situations. These ladies on this site are fabulous and very knowledgeable when you have questions.
Sherry - I have the same worries regarding tattoos. I know my son will probably have one when we see him next. He is very artistic and will probably design his own. I too hope they aren't in places he can't cover when he's done. I love your son's verse.
Hi everyone, my sailor is staying really quiet this round. Sure miss him, I send questions and will be lucky if I get 1 answer to 3 questions. Gotta love em! I check in periodically at this site, figure at least I'll know eventually when they sail again.
Navymommaria- welcome. Just throw out your questions and you will get response.
Hi All! Oh goodness, I've seen some posts regarding tattoo's. Unfortunately my daughter has gotten three of them. I just found out she got the first one while in Pensacola at A school. I never dreamed she would do that. She has beautiful skin and now she's talking about having the one on her shoulder (back right) touched up and added to. Sigh. . .not something I really like but as a parent we have raised our children to be strong, independent individuals. Oh, well. . .
Anyway, I just wanted to check in and encourage all you beautiful mom's of sailor's to stay strong, keep praying for our precious ones who serve and if you have a question, comment - whatever - speak up!
Well, I need to get back to what I was doing, baking bread and cookies to send to my Navy bean! Have a blessed rest of the day!
Loving all the tattoo stories I like them myself as long as they are in good taste and meaningful lol I gave up with my daughter I took her for her first one so she didn't do it behind my back at least it was done right she got another while in a school but I also think they are addicting I got my first one at 32 and I have 3 now so I really can't tell her not to but I tell her to remember that it could cause issues later with jobs so to becarful with what she gets:)
Well guys less than a week until the communication with our sailors goes back to a quick email and 1 call a week.... Ugh!!!! I'm just going to cherish the 2 or 3 phone calls/FaceTime I get everyday!!! I know we all think we have the greatest kids but I am incredibly thankful that Kyle no matter how busy he is he wants to call and share the good, bad and crazy stories.... I can't imagine going weeks much less months without hearing from him!!! This mom would go crazy!!!
It's funny how when my phone use to ring in the middle of the night or at 6 am on a Saturday morning I would get so worried that something was wrong....now I love getting those calls!!!!
Well guys hope everyone has an awesome weekend!!!!
He's home, thanks for the help! Me, my sailor, and my parents. Our time is flying fast have to go and enjoy every minute. My prayer is that every Navy Mom will be able to experience this joy!
Sherry - I am so jealous of you. You are so lucky to have some communication with your son. I just wish mine would send something once a month. Maybe your son could give mine lessons? LOL. Enjoy every word!
sethsmom- Trust me I cherish every call!!! When Kyle calls and his friends all are saying hello and acting crazy...I always ask them when the last time they called their family? Now a lot of the regulars I don't have to ask...they'll tell me....
Guys have an awesome week!!!
Sherry- thanks I keep asking my daughter and she just says she doesn't know she says they go to class and she's staying on the barge and I ask her what they are doing in class and she never says lol thanks for the info
Lisaz i think it depends on their rate and rank. My Sailor has been there almost a year and when he 1st arrived they were out to sea. They flew him out to the ship eithin the week so I don't think theres any hard and fast rules on how long they stay on the barge.
From what she's telling me it will be about six weeks when they fly her out I was just wondering it seemed strange to me that they would get them there and then make them wait but I guess there are certain things they have to do before putting them on the ship I never thought about that thanks for all the help its great to get as much info as possible:)
Ooo baby! My sailor was named his squadron's SOQ for last quarter! He is so happy to earn that. He's worked hard for almost 5 yrs to get it. Now he is setting his sights on SOY!
Just a few more weeks and his baby will be arriving. They went to Yokosuka a couple of weeks ago for a 32 week ultrasound, and he measured at approximately 34 weeks! He's either gonna be really big or he is going to be here a couple of weeks earlier than expected. We should know more after her next appointment.
I hope everyone has a great day and some phone calls!
Hi Ladies, I too was surprised to learn that this entire time (1 month) my son has been on the barge. Just transfered to the ship yesterday. I assumed he was just on base. That's what I get for assuming :-) He's had a good time sightseeing though. He entered undesignated and was hoping to job shadow 4 different rates on board. Well, he'll be in the weapons dept (not even close to what he was supposed to shadow). I guess we'll just see. The Navy owns him now.......
Sounds like my son was one of the lucky ones. He was sent to Japan after school in Pensacola and was flown out to the ship within a week. According to a one line message he is still with the catapult unit instead of the engine unit he is supposed to be with. He never really mentioned whether he got the packages we shipped to him. I sure hope so after reading some of the posts today. I guess I'll ask in the letter I send with the next package this week.
MaggieMay
punkinsmom - I got teary eyed just reading your post....I can only imagine the thrill of seeing that huge ship come in and then spying your Sailor as he/she comes off. I would have been shaking and screaming too! I don't have an IPAD so not sure exactly how they work, but from my computer I just click on the "image" icon in the comment section then browse my computer for the pic I want to post. Hope that helps, if not I hope someone else will come on here and explain. Have a wonderful time in Japan. So happy for all of you over there!
Aug 23, 2013
lmnadelady
Oh Katlanta, what a beautiful picture. You must be so excited he will be stateside. I've only been on this site since the last cruise and you were so helpful in teaching the ropes of the deploy experience. My sailor is on this cruise, but will be heading back stateside in March. Will be so nice to have him just a flight across the states away. Not to mention only 3hr time zone for phone calls. I didn't make it to Japan as he came home for Christmas and will be returning to the states shortly after this cruise. But so looking forward to his next move.
All you moms that got to see the ship come in how exciting!!!! I will be at one in the future, it has to be such a thrill. I just can not even comprehend how big these carriers are.
Aug 23, 2013
Lisazship2DIV928
Aug 26, 2013
Lisazship2DIV928
Aug 26, 2013
MaggieMay
Welcome Lisaz! Hang in there it's really tough when they first leave but there's lots of support on here...we're all in this together!
Katlanta - they are such a cute couple! I know your son is coming back to the states but is there any plans for the gf to come here? She looks like she would make a beautiful dil!
lmnadelady - How wonderful your Sailor will be coming back stateside too! You ladies must be overwhelmed to have them close again. My son still has 2 1/2 more years to go in Japan so I can't even begin to think about it. Got my fingers crossed he'll get leave this winter or spring and be able to come home to visit though.
Have a Great Day Ladies!
Aug 27, 2013
Navymommaria
Aug 27, 2013
CoCoBeansMom
Hi Navymommaria! I don't "talk" often on this site but am greatly comforted by what's posted here by others. Be encouraged that if you need anything, just ask and you will receive. I too wish that we could afford the trip to Japan for the family cruise but that's not something we can afford. :( However, I have enjoyed hearing other Navy Mom's experiences. I view all photo's hoping to one day see my daughter. Oh, well. . .at least we text like crazy when possible, skype when possible and message via Facebook. As has been said - we are all in this together! Blessings to everyone!
Aug 27, 2013
Louisville Mom
Hi Ladies! Hope all is well with you and yours. All is good in Louisville and with my Sailor. He is enjoying his time in port. Saw where the USSGW had Family Day. Maybe I will get to go to a future one. Will check-in soon.Take care and be safe!
Aug 27, 2013
Lisazship2DIV928
Aug 27, 2013
MaggieMay
Lisaz - glad you heard from your daughter....puts the mind a little at ease knowing she made it safely.
Have a Great Day Everyone!
Aug 28, 2013
MaggieMay
Katlanta - She's a beautiful young woman both inside and out! Hope their relationship continues to grow and she becomes a permanent part of your family. Keep us posted.
Aug 29, 2013
Sherry
Have an awesome 3 day weekend ladies!!!
Aug 30, 2013
bsb
My son went to the top of Mt. Fuji also this week! Sounds like a lot did that.
Aug 31, 2013
Mrs. David's mom
Aug 31, 2013
lmnadelady
Yes, my son did that last year. Very little word from him this year, says he is very busy. :(
Aug 31, 2013
Kimberly P
Aug 31, 2013
KayC Tim's mom
Kimberly I finally heard from my son on fb he said "I will call as soon as I can and I love you" I just want to hear his voice. But at least I know he is safe for the moment I just keep praying. I am glad for these groups because I know I am not the only one.
Sep 3, 2013
JDMK-NavyMom
Is there anyone on right now that can help with travel by train from Yokosuka to Narita? My Sailor is trying to get home heading to airport by train and not sure about what he is doing.
Sep 3, 2013
kwassaimee
Yes, tell him to go to the Shioiri or Yokosuka-Chuo train station and take the Keiyku express headed towards Shinagawa. Tell him to get off at Shinigawa and there he needs to purchase a ticket towards Narita Intl Airport on the Narita Express. He can do so at the travel booking center that is located at the Shinagawa train station.
Sep 3, 2013
JDMK-NavyMom
Kwassaimee - Thank you!
Sep 3, 2013
JDMK-NavyMom
Okay, he took a different station out he didn't say which one. I will be on edge until I know he at the airport and heading to his plane
Sep 3, 2013
Kimberly P
Sep 3, 2013
Navymommaria
Sep 4, 2013
momof2sailors
Navymommaria,
That is one reason I am rarely on here.
Sep 4, 2013
Mary (Chris' mom)
Navymommaria...CoCoBeansMom, and Joshmom have both spoken to you the last time you asked why no one was talking to you. What would you like to know or what would you like for everyone else to know? This is a chatty bunch though much friendlier and easier to "break into" conversations with than the Japan Moms group. I read most of the posts even though I don't post very often. My son is attached to a squadron who does not keep up with day-to-day events on facebook so this site, the G-dub's facebook page, and military times.com, are my best sources for glimpses into his life. I understand your frustration if you feel that folks are not chatting with you, but you must go back to your posts and see that people have acknowledged you. I hope you will find whatever support and/or information you are looking for here. I hope your sailor enjoys their time in Japan.
Sep 4, 2013
Sherry
My son got all his Quals so when they get back from deployment in December he will be able to move into the barracks which he is looking forward to...
Ladies have an awesome week!!!
Sep 4, 2013
MaggieMay
Navymommaria - Sorry you feel this way. Please jump in and ask questions or share your stories and feelings with us. We all share a common bond and we've come here because we all love our children very much and want to stay connected in as many ways as possible. I personally think the people in this group are great and very supportive. I really enjoy reading the posts and get much comfort in knowing that I am not alone in the feelings that I have. Because of this group I know I'm normal when I get those "missing my sailor" blues or when I feel frustrated because my sailor hasn't contacted me as often as I think he should! The veteran moms bring so much knowledge to this group and I get excited reading about Sailors coming home, advancing, getting rewards, climbing Mt Fuji or whatever the case may be. All the posts make me feel like I'm part of the Navy family and I want everyone in this group to know that even though I don't comment all the time I am here with you always in spirit cheering both you and your sailors on, giving you hugs and keeping you in my prayers.
HUGS to everyone and God bless you all and your Sailors!!!!
Sep 4, 2013
Sherry
I'm new to the site but so happy we have it because again it has been so helpful and encouraging hearing from the other moms!!!!
Sep 4, 2013
JDMK-NavyMom
Thanks everyone for all the info! I am tracking my son's plane now...he is now flying over US soil. I'll be getting my hug in about 4 hours. To all new moms welcome and please know that all the ladies here are more than willing to help in any way possible, all you need to do is ask. {{N4M hugs}} to all.
Sep 4, 2013
Sherry
Sep 4, 2013
MaggieMay
JDMK - Squeeeeeeze the stuffing out of him!!! Enjoy his time home and please share some pics!
Sherry - thank goodness your son was there before it was too late. I too pray this sailor gets the help he needs. So sad
Sep 4, 2013
sethsmom
so exciting to read about all of your sailors adventures. I sure hope my son was one of them that climbed Mt. Fugi. We have a family friend navy veteran that recommended that activity if he had the chance. We haven't heard anything meaningful from Seth since the beginning of May. He posted that he was in Brisbane and got his "rating and points". Not sure what that means but hope it means he finally gets to go to engine training.
JDMK- I can't imagine how panicked you felt when he was trying to get to the plane but I know how relieved and excited you must be knowing he's on it and almost home. I've told people if my son ever gets to come home I will squeeze him until my arms are tired and if I haven't suffocated him with that I will choke him for not keeping in minimal contact. His mailbox is full again so messages are bouncing back. At least I didn't panic this time like last.
Navymommaria - Please know that even though there are specific chats to you there are many reading your posts. After my first time on the site I couldn't come back for several months because it made me cry too much. It's better now but still cry happy tears for those with exciting news and sympathetic tears for those with similar situations. These ladies on this site are fabulous and very knowledgeable when you have questions.
Sherry - I have the same worries regarding tattoos. I know my son will probably have one when we see him next. He is very artistic and will probably design his own. I too hope they aren't in places he can't cover when he's done. I love your son's verse.
Sep 4, 2013
lmnadelady
Hi everyone, my sailor is staying really quiet this round. Sure miss him, I send questions and will be lucky if I get 1 answer to 3 questions. Gotta love em! I check in periodically at this site, figure at least I'll know eventually when they sail again.
Navymommaria- welcome. Just throw out your questions and you will get response.
Sep 4, 2013
CoCoBeansMom
Hi All! Oh goodness, I've seen some posts regarding tattoo's. Unfortunately my daughter has gotten three of them. I just found out she got the first one while in Pensacola at A school. I never dreamed she would do that. She has beautiful skin and now she's talking about having the one on her shoulder (back right) touched up and added to. Sigh. . .not something I really like but as a parent we have raised our children to be strong, independent individuals. Oh, well. . .
Anyway, I just wanted to check in and encourage all you beautiful mom's of sailor's to stay strong, keep praying for our precious ones who serve and if you have a question, comment - whatever - speak up!
Well, I need to get back to what I was doing, baking bread and cookies to send to my Navy bean! Have a blessed rest of the day!
Sep 4, 2013
sparkyjo-PIR 09/21/12 Div 303
Sep 5, 2013
Lisazship2DIV928
Sep 6, 2013
mgraupmann
We are planning a trip to Japan to see our son over Christmas. Any ideas for motels/hotels? They look really spendy and small.
Sep 6, 2013
Sherry
It's funny how when my phone use to ring in the middle of the night or at 6 am on a Saturday morning I would get so worried that something was wrong....now I love getting those calls!!!!
Well guys hope everyone has an awesome weekend!!!!
Sep 7, 2013
JDMK-NavyMom
He's home, thanks for the help! Me, my sailor, and my parents. Our time is flying fast have to go and enjoy every minute. My prayer is that every Navy Mom will be able to experience this joy!
Sep 9, 2013
MaggieMay
JDMK - ENJOY.....ENJOY.....ENJOY!!!!!
Sep 9, 2013
sethsmom
Sherry - I am so jealous of you. You are so lucky to have some communication with your son. I just wish mine would send something once a month. Maybe your son could give mine lessons? LOL. Enjoy every word!
Sep 9, 2013
Sherry
Guys have an awesome week!!!
Sep 9, 2013
Lisazship2DIV928
Sep 9, 2013
Sherry
Sep 9, 2013
Lisazship2DIV928
Sep 9, 2013
dawny64
Lisaz i think it depends on their rate and rank. My Sailor has been there almost a year and when he 1st arrived they were out to sea. They flew him out to the ship eithin the week so I don't think theres any hard and fast rules on how long they stay on the barge.
Sep 9, 2013
Lisazship2DIV928
Sep 9, 2013
Mary (Chris' mom)
Ooo baby! My sailor was named his squadron's SOQ for last quarter! He is so happy to earn that. He's worked hard for almost 5 yrs to get it. Now he is setting his sights on SOY!
Just a few more weeks and his baby will be arriving. They went to Yokosuka a couple of weeks ago for a 32 week ultrasound, and he measured at approximately 34 weeks! He's either gonna be really big or he is going to be here a couple of weeks earlier than expected. We should know more after her next appointment.
I hope everyone has a great day and some phone calls!
Sep 10, 2013
willsmom
Hi Ladies, I too was surprised to learn that this entire time (1 month) my son has been on the barge. Just transfered to the ship yesterday. I assumed he was just on base. That's what I get for assuming :-) He's had a good time sightseeing though. He entered undesignated and was hoping to job shadow 4 different rates on board. Well, he'll be in the weapons dept (not even close to what he was supposed to shadow). I guess we'll just see. The Navy owns him now.......
Sep 10, 2013
sethsmom
Sounds like my son was one of the lucky ones. He was sent to Japan after school in Pensacola and was flown out to the ship within a week. According to a one line message he is still with the catapult unit instead of the engine unit he is supposed to be with. He never really mentioned whether he got the packages we shipped to him. I sure hope so after reading some of the posts today. I guess I'll ask in the letter I send with the next package this week.
Sep 10, 2013